Parts for your 2017 Subaru Exiga-Power steering pump

2017 Subaru Exiga: is a power‑steering pump used?

Short answer: a power‑steering pump isn’t fitted to the 2017 Subaru Exiga. That model—sold in Japan as the Exiga Crossover 7—uses an electric power steering (EPS) system, so there’s no hydraulic pump, no power‑steering fluid, and no belt drive under the bonnet for the steering assist.

Technical sources that confirm this:

• Subaru Service Manual (STIS) for MY2015–2018 Exiga Crossover 7 (YA/YAM): the Steering “System Description” details an EPS rack with an electric assist motor and control module, not a hydraulic pump and lines.
• Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue (JDM YA/YAM, 2015–2018): lists the EPS steering gear and control unit, there’s no “power‑steering pump” assembly or fluid reservoir shown for these model years.
• Exiga Crossover 7 Owner’s Manual, Steering section: describes an electric power steering warning lamp and provides no service interval for power‑steering fluid, consistent with EPS.

Why a pump isn’t used on the 2017 Exiga? Subaru moved to EPS on this platform to trim fuel use, reduce maintenance, and sharpen control. An electric motor provides assist only when needed, so there’s less parasitic load than a belt‑driven hydraulic pump. With no fluid, hoses or pump, there are fewer leak points and no periodic fluid changes. EPS also integrates neatly with stability control and driver‑assist features, allowing the control unit to fine‑tune assist based on speed and steering input.

What should Exiga owners look after instead of a pump? Keep the 12‑volt electrical system healthy—low voltage or a weak alternator can make the steering feel heavy and may throw an EPS warning. After wheel alignment or collision repairs, ensure the steering angle sensor is calibrated. Inspect rack boots for tears and listen for clunks that could hint at inner tie‑rod or rack wear (mechanical items are still conventional). If the EPS light appears or assist feels uneven, a scan with a suitable diagnostic tool for EPS fault codes is the next step—chasing “fluid” or “pump” issues won’t help, because there aren’t any on this model.

Bottom line for a 2017 Subaru Exiga: there’s no power‑steering pump to service or replace. Focus routine servicing on battery and charging checks, alignment, front‑end inspection, and software calibrations where needed, and the steering will stay light and predictable for many more kilometres.

Popular questions

Does a 2017 Subaru Exiga have a power‑steering pump?
No. It uses electric power steering (EPS), so there’s no hydraulic pump, reservoir, hoses or fluid to maintain. Assist comes from an electric motor on the steering rack, controlled by an EPS module.

What maintenance does the Exiga’s EPS need?
There’s no fluid service. Look after the battery and alternator, as low voltage can reduce assist or trigger the EPS light. After alignments or steering work, make sure the steering angle sensor is calibrated. Inspect rack boots and front‑end components during routine servicing, and scan for EPS codes if the warning lamp shows.

Can a weak alternator make the steering heavy?
Yes. EPS relies on stable electrical supply. If the alternator or battery is weak, the system can limit assist—most noticeable at parking speeds—often with an EPS warning. Testing the charging system and battery is the first port of call before chasing steering hardware.