Parts for your 2017 Holden Commodore-Power steering fluid

Power Steering Fluid for the 2017 Holden Commodore: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Holden Commodore takes a modern approach when it comes to steering, and that includes the way it handles power steering. Unlike older cars that use traditional hydraulic power steering systems which require power steering fluid, the 2017 Commodore is fitted with an electric power steering system. This means there is no power steering fluid to top up or replace. So if you have been wondering about power steering fluid for your Commodore, here's the lowdown on why it doesn't apply and what that means for your vehicle.

Traditional hydraulic power steering relies heavily on power steering fluid to transmit hydraulic pressure and help make steering lighter and smoother. This fluid circulates through the steering system via a pump, assisting in turning the wheels with less effort. However, the 2017 Holden Commodore switched to electric power steering, which uses an electric motor rather than hydraulic pressure to assist the driver. Therefore, no hoses, pumps or fluid reservoirs are necessary.

There are several advantages to this switch. One big plus is that the electric power steering system is generally more efficient, as it only consumes power when steering assistance is needed. This can help improve fuel economy compared to hydraulic systems, which continuously run the power steering pump even when you are driving straight down the road. Without fluid to leak or pumps to maintain, electric steering systems can also be more reliable and require less ongoing maintenance.

Because power steering fluid isn't part of the setup under the bonnet for a 2017 Holden Commodore, you won't find a power steering fluid reservoir to check during your routine servicing. This eliminates a traditional maintenance task and means steering-related problems often come down to electrical issues or components like the motor or sensors rather than fluid leaks or contamination.

So what does this mean for Commodore owners? For one, no need to worry about checking or topping up power steering fluid, or flushing it out during scheduled servicing intervals. The electric power steering system's health is usually monitored by the car's onboard diagnostics, which can alert you to any faults or malfunctions. If you do experience steering issues, it's best to take the car to a qualified technician who can diagnose any electronic or mechanical faults related to the steering motor or its control units.

It's still important to keep up with regular maintenance on your 2017 Holden Commodore. Check your tyre pressures, wheel alignment and suspension components, because these all directly impact steering performance and feel. Worn or damaged tyres and suspension parts can make the steering harder to control or less responsive, even though there is no fluid involved.

Another aspect to keep in mind is that while you don't have to deal with power steering fluid, the electric power steering system contains sensors and electronic components that should be protected from moisture and corrosion. Regular vehicle checks will help ensure these parts are in good shape. If you notice any warning lights on your dash related to steering or experience unusual noises or stiffness, it's worth getting these inspected promptly to avoid bigger problems.

In the end, the absence of power steering fluid in the 2017 Holden Commodore comes down to the car's choice of technology. Electric power steering offers drivers a clean, efficient, and low-maintenance setup that still delivers smooth and responsive steering. So forget about messy fluid leaks or topping up reservoirs. Instead, just focus on regular vehicle care and monitoring any electrical issues that may arise.

If you want to keep your 2017 Holden Commodore steering exactly how it should feel, it pays to keep an eye on the overall health of your vehicle's wheels and suspension, and address any dashboard warnings without delay. Even though there is no power steering fluid involved, the system depends on its electronic components to keep the steering light and reliable. And proper maintenance goes a long way in keeping your Commodore cruising comfortably and safely on Australian roads.