Parts for your 2016 Subaru Impreza-Power steering fluid

Power Steering Fluid and the 2016 Subaru Impreza

The 2016 Subaru Impreza is a fantastic car that has won the hearts of many Australian drivers. What's unique about it is that it doesn't use traditional power steering fluid. Instead, this model comes equipped with an electric power steering system. Now, you might be asking why a vehicle would move away from using power steering fluid. Well, that's what we're here to explore.

The electric power steering system in the 2016 Subaru Impreza is a technological upgrade over the older hydraulic systems that required power steering fluid. Traditional systems used to depend heavily on hydraulic pressure to help steer the car. This meant that the fluid circulated within a pump, adding resistance and aiding in the steering process. Unfortunately, this also meant dealing with leaks, replacing the fluid at intervals, and dealing with quirks associated with such systems.

Subaru's shift to an electric system in the Impreza is part of a trend in modern vehicles aimed at improving efficiency and performance. The electric power steering system doesn't require a pump or fluid. Instead, it uses an electric motor to help turn the wheels, making for a smoother, more responsive driving experience. This shift has many advantages:

• Improved fuel efficiency due to less drag on the engine from not having to power a hydraulic pump.
• Enhanced steering precision and responsiveness.
• Reduced maintenance as there's no fluid to leak or replace.
• Better overall reliability because there are fewer moving parts that can wear out.

For those used to the routine of topping up power steering fluid, this change might feel a bit foreign. But like many aspects of automotive technology, it's all about making things easier, less cumbersome, and more environmentally friendly in the long run. Not having to deal with the messy and, at times, finicky power steering fluid eliminates one more thing that needs checking under the bonnet. That said, having an electric power steering system doesn't mean doing away with all maintenance.

Maintaining the electric steering system primarily involves regular checks and servicing of the power steering motor and associated electrical components. While there's no fluid to change, regular inspections usually carried out as part of a scheduled service will ensure that the system remains in top-notch condition. Subaru service centres have checks in place to ensure everything ticks along as it should.

Although electric power steering systems far outstrip their hydraulic counterparts in terms of efficiency and maintenance simplicity, they do come with their own set of needs. Regular updates to the software controlling the system might be necessary, and occasionally, recalibrations can be done to adjust the steering feel according to user preferences.

So, while you may miss getting your hands a bit greasy with power steering fluid checks or refills, just know this move is for the better. Electric steering systems reflect a leap forward in simplifying car maintenance for the everyday driver. The system in the 2016 Subaru Impreza is a testimony to Subaru's commitment to embracing advanced technology while making sure driving remains as enjoyable as ever.

Even though the traditional physical fluid checks are off the table, owners are encouraged always to keep an eye and ear out for anything out of the ordinary in their steering. Issues such as increased steering effort or unusual noises may necessitate a trip to the service centre. So there you have it. The absence of power steering fluid in the 2016 Subaru Impreza is not a step back but a leap forward in automotive innovation. Enjoy the drive, knowing your Impreza is a step ahead in steering technology.