Parts for your 2017 Honda Civic-Power steering pump

Understanding the Power Steering Pump in the 2017 Honda Civic

The 2017 Honda Civic is a popular choice among Aussie drivers thanks to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and modern features. One common question that pops up when discussing the Civic's steering system is whether it uses a power steering pump or not. When it comes to the 2017 Honda Civic, it actually does not come equipped with a traditional hydraulic power steering pump. Instead, Honda uses an electric power steering system, commonly called Electric Power Steering (EPS).

Traditional power steering systems rely on a belt-driven hydraulic power steering pump to provide the necessary assist for turning the wheels. This pump creates hydraulic pressure that makes steering lighter and easier, especially at low speeds or when parking. However, starting around the mid-2010s, many manufacturers including Honda started switching from hydraulic power steering pumps to EPS systems in their vehicles for a bunch of good reasons.

The primary reason why the 2017 Honda Civic does not have a hydraulic power steering pump is efficiency and simplicity. Electric power steering removes the need for a drive belt and hydraulic fluid, reducing maintenance needs and increasing fuel economy. Instead of a pump, the electric motor in the EPS system provides variable steering assist electrically, which adjusts based on the speed of the vehicle and driving conditions. This means you get more precise steering effort, improved efficiency, and a cleaner engine bay with fewer components to worry about.

So, if you're looking up information or shopping for parts related to a power steering pump for your 2017 Honda Civic, you won't find one because the system simply does not use a traditional pump. This change means no hydraulic fluid top-ups or routine power steering pump replacements like you might do on older cars or some other models still sticking with hydraulic setups.

That said, while the 2017 Honda Civic doesn't have a power steering pump, it's still important to keep the electric power steering system in good health. Regular servicing and checks can prevent bigger issues down the line and ensure smooth, safe steering at all times. Here's a quick guide on what to watch for and how to maintain your Civic's power steering system under the hood.

First off, keep an eye out for any warning lights on your dashboard related to the steering system. The EPS relies on sensors and an electric motor to work properly, so any electrical faults could trigger alerts. If you notice unusual noises while turning, steering feels heavy or intermittent, or the wheel doesn't return smoothly to centre, have it checked by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

Unlike hydraulic systems, there's no fluid to check or replace, but the EPS components such as the steering rack, electric motor, and sensor connections do need occasional inspection. During servicing, technicians will perform diagnostic scans to ensure the electronic control module, wiring, and motor are functioning correctly. They might also inspect the physical condition of the steering rack and tie rods to catch early signs of wear or damage that could affect steering feel.

Since the EPS system depends heavily on electrical power, maintaining your car's battery and charging system is also crucial. A weak battery or alternator issues can cause the power steering assist to falter, making the steering heavier and harder to manage, especially at low speeds.

In general, servicing your 2017 Honda Civic according to the manufacturer's schedule is the best way to keep everything running smoothly. Although there's no power steering pump to replace, the EPS system benefits from the overall care you give the vehicle including:

• Routine electrical system checks to ensure sensors and motors are working properly.
• Physical inspections of steering components like racks, boots, and linkages for wear or leaks.
• Battery and alternator health assessments to avoid power shortages impacting steering assist.
• Prompt attention to any steering-related warning lights or unusual behaviour when turning the wheel.

One of the great advantages of EPS systems and the reason Honda uses it in the 2017 Civic is the reduced maintenance compared with hydraulic pumps. You don't have to worry about fluid changes, leaks, or pump replacement, which means fewer visits to the mechanic and less ongoing expense.

If any major steering issues arise, skilled technicians can usually diagnose problems with the electric motor or control units using specialised diagnostic tools. But for the average driver, with regular vehicle servicing and keeping an ear out for new noises or strange steering behaviour, the system should offer reliable, easy steering for years to come.

In short, if you own a 2017 Honda Civic and are thinking about the power steering pump, there's not one fitted because the car features a modern electric power steering setup. This system provides efficient, lighter steering effort without the traditional hydraulic parts, making the Civic easier and cheaper to maintain in this area. Paying attention to the electrical and mechanical parts of the steering system during regular servicing is the best bet to keep your Civic's steering feeling tight and responsive on the road.