Parts for your 2013 Mazda Premacy-Power steering pump

2013 Mazda Premacy power-steering-pump: what it does and how to look after it

Based on technical references — the Mazda CR (2010–2017) Workshop Manual power steering section and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue for the CR Premacy listing the power steering oil pump and hoses — the 2013 Mazda Premacy (also known as Mazda5 in some markets) is fitted with a belt‑driven hydraulic power‑steering pump. It is not an electric power steering setup.

On this model, the power‑steering pump’s job is simple but crucial: it pressurises fluid and feeds the steering rack so low‑speed manoeuvres feel light while still giving confident road feel at speed. Driven by the serpentine belt, the pump works every time the engine runs, so clean fluid, good belt condition and leak‑free lines are key to keeping it quiet and reliable.

For routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the system at each service and refresh the fluid periodically. Mazda specifies ATF‑type fluid for this hydraulic system — typically Mazda Genuine ATF M‑III or an equivalent Dexron III — but always confirm on the reservoir cap or owner’s manual. Many owners opt to flush the system every 60,000–80,000 km or 4–5 years, especially if the fluid looks dark or smells burnt.

• Check fluid level and colour regularly, top up only with the correct ATF.
• Look for dampness around the pump shaft, hose crimps and the rack — early leaks are cheaper to fix.
• Listen for whine or groan on cold start or tight turns, that can point to low fluid, air in the system or a tired pump.
• Inspect the drive belt for glazing or cracks, a slipping belt can mimic pump failure.

If the pump needs replacing, use a quality new or remanufactured unit and replace the O‑rings on the pressure and return lines. It pays to flush the rack and lines so debris doesn’t take out the new pump. After installation, bleed the system properly:

1. With the front wheels off the ground and engine off, turn the steering from lock to lock 10–15 times while topping the reservoir.
2. Start the engine and let it idle, turning lock to lock without holding it on the stops. Bubbles should clear and the fluid should run clean and quiet.
3. Recheck the level after a short drive and again the next day.

Treat the pump kindly and it’ll typically last well beyond 150,000 km. When symptoms appear — heavy steering at parking speeds, persistent whine, metallic glitter in the fluid — don’t ignore them. Early attention keeps the Premacy’s steering light, consistent and drama‑free.

Popular questions about the 2013 Mazda Premacy power‑steering pump

Does the 2013 Premacy use a hydraulic pump or electric steering?

It uses a belt‑driven hydraulic power‑steering pump. This is documented in the Mazda CR Workshop Manual’s power steering section and confirmed by the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue, which lists the power‑steering oil pump and hoses for the CR Premacy.

What fluid goes in the power steering, and how much?

Use Mazda Genuine ATF M‑III or an equivalent Dexron III ATF, unless your reservoir cap or owner’s manual specifies otherwise. A typical drain and refill is roughly 0.9–1.0 litres, but always set the final level by the dipstick on the reservoir with the engine idling and fluid at operating temperature.

How do you bleed the system after replacing the pump?

Raise the front wheels, engine off, turn the wheel lock‑to‑lock repeatedly while topping the reservoir. Then start the engine and repeat gently until no bubbles appear and the noise settles. Avoid holding the wheel against the stops. Recheck the level after a short drive.