Parts for your 2010 Subaru Impreza-Power steering pump

2010 Subaru Impreza Power-Steering Pump

According to the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2010MY Impreza (GE/GH/GR, Steering section), the Subaru Tech Information System, and OEM parts catalogues used by ANZ dealers, the 2010 Subaru Impreza is fitted with a belt-driven hydraulic power-steering pump. Independent manuals (e.g., Haynes for 2001–2011 Impreza) also document a conventional hydraulic system on this model. So yes—this vehicle uses a power-steering pump, not electric power steering.

The power-steering pump on a 2010 Impreza provides hydraulic assist so the wheel feels light at parking speeds and reassuringly weighted on the open road. Driven by the engine belt, it pressurises fluid and feeds the rack via high- and low-pressure lines. Subaru specifies ATF meeting Dexron III for this system on the 2010 model, which keeps the pump lubricated and the steering silky when it’s in good nick.

For servicing, workshops generally check fluid level and condition at every service, inspect the drive belt for cracking or glazing, and look for dampness around the pump body, hose crimps and rack ends. Subaru doesn’t publish a strict fluid replacement interval for this year, but many ANZ technicians recommend a fluid refresh around 60,000–100,000 km, sooner if the fluid is dark, smells burnt, or the steering gets noisy when cold. Use the correct ATF, keep the reservoir screen clean, and avoid mixing fluids.

• Common signs the pump needs attention: groaning or whine that follows engine speed, heavy or jerky steering, aerated/foamy fluid in the reservoir, or wetness from the pump shaft seal or hose fittings.
• When replacing the pump: match by VIN, renew the O‑rings on pressure and return fittings, and consider new hoses if they’re hard or swollen. Always fit a quality belt and set tension to spec.

Bleeding the system after any work is crucial to avoid cavitation:

1. Front wheels off the ground, engine off, fill reservoir to the correct mark.
2. Slowly turn lock‑to‑lock 15–20 times, top up as bubbles purge.
3. Start the engine briefly, avoid holding at full lock, recheck level and leaks, repeat until the fluid runs clear and quiet.

A tidy, leak‑free pump keeps steering feel consistent and protects the rack—cheap insurance for everyday commuting and long Kiwi or Aussie road trips alike.

Does the 2010 Impreza use electric or hydraulic steering?

It uses hydraulic power steering. The 2010 model range (including WRX and STI) runs a belt-driven hydraulic pump. Subaru moved to electric assist in later generations, not on the 2010.

What fluid should go in the 2010 Impreza power-steering system?

Use automatic transmission fluid meeting Dexron III, as specified in the Subaru service literature for this model year. Don’t mix fluid types, if uncertain what’s in there, a full flush with the correct ATF is the safe move.

How can someone tell the pump is on the way out?

Listen for a rising-and-falling whine with engine revs, feel for heavy or pulsing assistance, and check for foamy fluid or leaks at the pump shaft and hose joints. After confirming belt condition and tension, persistent noise or heavy steering usually points to pump wear or internal bypassing.