Parts for your 2017 Nissan Pulsar-Power steering pump

Power Steering Pump on the 2017 Nissan Pulsar

The 2017 Nissan Pulsar is a popular compact hatchback and sedan that was designed with modern driving convenience and efficiency in mind. When it comes to steering assistance, many drivers might wonder whether this model uses a traditional power steering pump or if it has opted for a more contemporary system. For the 2017 Nissan Pulsar, especially the Australian market versions, it does not use a conventional hydraulic power steering pump. Instead, Nissan equipped this vehicle with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system.

Why is there no power steering pump in the 2017 Nissan Pulsar? The answer lies in the shift in automotive technology. Older cars usually rely on hydraulic power steering systems, which use a belt-driven pump connected to the engine to circulate hydraulic fluid. This flow of fluid assists the driver by reducing the effort needed to turn the steering wheel. However, hydraulic systems come with some downsides including complexity, increased parasitic engine loss, and maintenance requirements like fluid changes and pump replacement.

The 2017 Nissan Pulsar benefits from an Electric Power Steering system instead. EPS uses an electric motor that is mounted on the steering column or rack to provide steering assistance. It draws power from the vehicle's electrical system rather than the engine, improving fuel efficiency because it only uses energy when steering assistance is needed. This modern system reduces weight and complexity while enhancing reliability and responsiveness.

Because there is no hydraulic pump, 2017 Nissan Pulsar owners won't need to worry about the typical issues that affect hydraulic power steering pumps - such as leaks, worn seals, or noise from the pump itself. The shift to EPS also eliminates the need for power steering fluid, hoses, or reservoirs, which reduces the number of routine maintenance tasks and potential failure points.

Although the Pulsar does not have a traditional power steering pump, it's still important to keep the electric power steering system in good shape. Regular servicing includes checking the condition of the steering column and ensuring the electrical connections are clean and secure. Additionally, the vehicle's computer system monitors the EPS and will typically alert drivers if there is a fault or failure in the system, which can then be diagnosed with specialized diagnostic tools at a Nissan service centre.

For owners who might be tempted to compare the EPS system to hydraulic power steering setups, the benefits are pretty clear:

• Better fuel economy since the electric motor is only used when needed
• Less maintenance with no fluid to change or pumps to replace
• Lighter overall vehicle weight
• Improved steering precision and feedback
• Quieter operation with fewer moving parts

When it comes to replacement, if the electric power steering motor or sensors on a 2017 Pulsar ever do fail, they must be replaced as an assembly. These components are designed to work as a system, and it isn't possible to replace individual elements of the EPS unit in the field. It's a bit different to swapping out a traditional power steering pump. Replacement usually requires diagnostic scans to confirm the faulty part and specialist tools to safely disassemble and reassemble the steering column or rack.

Most Pulsar owners won't need to think much about their EPS system for regular driving, but it's a good idea to have the steering system inspected during scheduled servicing just like any other major component. Technicians will check for any abnormal noises, unusual steering effort, or warning lights related to the steering system. If anything seems off, it's best to get it checked sooner rather than later to avoid safety risks or more expensive repairs down the track.

In a nutshell, the 2017 Nissan Pulsar does not come equipped with a traditional hydraulic power steering pump because of the adoption of an electric power steering system. This modern approach provides a smoother, more efficient driving experience with fewer maintenance concerns. Keeping an eye on the health of the EPS system through regular inspections and servicing will ensure your Pulsar handles happily for years to come.