Does an Electric Power Steering System Need Oil?
2 Answers
Electric power steering systems come in two types. The first is the pure electric power steering commonly used in Japanese cars, which is directly driven by an electric motor and does not require power steering fluid replacement. The second type, commonly used in European and American vehicles, employs an electric motor as the oil pump for the power steering system. The hydraulic fluid from the pump then drives the power steering mechanism. This type of system uses power steering fluid, which should be replaced every 2 years or 30,000 kilometers to prevent contamination or degradation. Features of electric power steering: 1. Performance improvement: Significantly enhances both dynamic and static performance of the vehicle; 2. Reduced consumption: Lowers fuel consumption; 3. Enhanced responsiveness: Improves steering follow-up; 4. Increased stability: Boosts handling stability; 5. Improved characteristics: Enhances steering return-to-center properties; 6. Reduced pollution: Minimizes environmental impact, aligning with the green trend of the times.
I just came back from the repair shop and have researched this issue. Electric power steering (EPS) doesn't require oil because it doesn't rely on a hydraulic system, but instead uses an electric motor to assist with steering. Traditional hydraulic power steering needs regular power steering fluid changes, otherwise deteriorated fluid can cause heavy steering or unusual noises. However, EPS designs don't have any oil circuit components at all - they operate entirely through electronic control units and electric motors. I've been driving an electric vehicle myself for over a year now, and the steering has always been smooth and effortless without ever needing any oil. Maintenance focuses on electronic components: checking if fuses are blown, whether sensor signals are stable, and if wiring connections are loose. If you experience steering difficulties, it might be due to motor aging or software issues, in which case professional diagnosis is needed. Overall, EPS systems are more fuel-efficient, quieter, and require less maintenance, making them standard equipment in modern vehicles.
