Parts for your 2014 Subaru Forester-Power steering fluid

2014 Subaru Forester power-steering-fluid — is it used or relevant?

For the 2014 Subaru Forester (SJ series), power steering fluid isn’t a thing. This model runs electric power steering (EPS), so there’s no hydraulic pump, no hoses, and no reservoir to top up. That’s confirmed in Subaru’s 2014MY Forester Owner’s Manual under the Steering section, and in Subaru’s Service Manual (STIS) which details the Electric Power Steering control module and column-assist motor. Subaru’s 2014 product technical materials also list electric power steering as standard across the range.

Because the steering assist is provided by an electric motor and control unit rather than fluid pressure, there’s no power-steering-fluid to check, flush, or replace during servicing. It reduces maintenance, trims parasitic load on the engine, and can help fuel economy—handy for Aussie and Kiwi drivers clocking up the kays.

What should an owner keep an eye on instead? Good basic checks go a long way. If the steering ever feels heavier than usual or a steering warning light pops up, it’s more about the electrical system and alignment than fluid. A healthy battery and charging system are crucial for EPS, and the rack boots and suspension bushes should be in good nick.

• Keep the battery and charging system tested, especially if the steering feels heavy at idle or after a cold start.
• Maintain correct tyre pressures and rotate tyres on schedule to keep steering effort and feel consistent.
• Have wheel alignment checked if the car pulls or the steering wheel isn’t centred.
• Ask a technician to scan for EPS fault codes if a steering warning light appears.

If someone’s seeing a “power steering” reservoir under the bonnet, it’s not on this model—what you’re likely spotting is a brake fluid reservoir or a coolant overflow bottle. Earlier-generation Foresters (pre-SJ) did use hydraulic systems with fluid, but the 2014 SJ moved to EPS across the board, including both 2.5i and 2.0XT trims.

Popular questions about 2014 Subaru Forester power-steering-fluid

Does a 2014 Subaru Forester have power steering fluid?
No. The 2014 Forester uses electric power steering, so there’s no fluid to check or replace. There’s no hydraulic pump or reservoir fitted from factory.

How do you maintain the steering on a 2014 Forester if there’s no fluid?
Focus on the electrical and mechanical basics: keep the battery and alternator healthy, check tyre pressures and tread, and get regular wheel alignments. If a steering warning light appears or it feels unusually heavy, have a workshop scan the EPS for fault codes.

What if the steering suddenly feels heavy?
Safely pull over and restart the vehicle to reset the EPS. If it persists, check battery voltage and charging output, then book a diagnostic. Worn tyres, low pressures, or alignment issues can also make steering feel heavier.