Does Electronic Power Steering Fluid Need to Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Electronic power steering does not use power steering fluid, so no replacement is needed. Power steering fluid is a special liquid used in the power steering pump of a car's power steering system. Through hydraulic action, it makes the steering wheel very light, making it easier for the driver to control the direction. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the power steering system automatically provides assistance, reducing the driver's steering effort. Here is additional information: EPS stands for Electric-Power-Steering, which is the development direction of automotive steering systems. This system directly provides steering assistance through an electric motor, eliminating the need for components like the power steering pump, hoses, hydraulic fluid, drive belt, and pulley mounted on the engine in hydraulic power steering systems, saving energy and being environmentally friendly.
I remember back in the days when I drove the old Camry, every time I went to the 4S shop, they'd remind me to change the power steering fluid. But with new energy vehicles nowadays, it's completely different. The electric power steering system doesn't have any hydraulic pump or oil pipes—it's directly driven by a motor under the steering wheel. Last week, I specifically checked the maintenance manual, and it clearly states 'Electric Power Steering System: Maintenance-Free.' However, I must remind you to watch out for two special situations: if your car makes unusually loud whirring noises when turning the steering wheel while stationary, or if the steering feels noticeably heavier with some lag, it might indicate an issue with the steering column assembly. Also, those hydraulic steering systems with an electric pump (like some older German cars) do require a fluid change every two years—otherwise, sludge buildup can affect steering feel.
Having run an auto repair shop for twenty years, I've seen countless car owners tricked into changing their 'electronic power steering fluid.' In reality, most modern vehicles use electronic power steering systems that don't even have hydraulic fluid! Just last week, a Civic-driving lady was charged 380 yuan by a roadside shop for 'steering fluid replacement' – pure waste of money. The only vehicles that actually require fluid changes are older hydraulic power steering models, where the steering gear connects to a hydraulic pump. Here's an easy way to check: pop the hood and look for the steering fluid reservoir (usually a black or transparent plastic container) marked with a steering wheel icon – it contains red or light yellow fluid. This fluid does oxidize over time and typically needs replacement every 40,000 km. If the fluid appears black with a burnt smell, it indicates possible wear in the steering gear.
