Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Power steering pump

2017 Subaru Forester power-steering pump: not fitted, and here’s why

For the 2017 Subaru Forester (SJ series), a hydraulic power-steering pump isn’t fitted or relevant. Technical sources including the 2017 Subaru Forester Owner’s Manual (Steering section), the Subaru Service Manual for the SJ chassis (ME – Steering, Electric Power Steering), and Subaru’s Technical Information System (STIS) parts listings all identify the vehicle as using Electric Power Steering (EPS). EPS provides steering assist via an electric motor and control module, so there’s no belt-driven pump, no power-steering hoses and no fluid reservoir to service.

Subaru moved the Forester to EPS in the SJ generation to trim parasitic engine losses, improve fuel economy, and deliver variable assist that can be tuned for better on-centre feel and parking manoeuvres. With no hydraulic circuit, there’s less weight, fewer leak points, and no fluid to flush. That’s why a traditional power-steering pump simply isn’t part of the 2017 Forester’s design.

• No fluid to top up: the “power-steering fluid” check is not applicable on this model.
• If steering feels heavy or the steering warning lamp shows, think electrical: battery/alternator health, EPS fuses and connectors, alignment, and tyre condition are the first checks.
• Parts fitment: if someone’s trying to sell a hydraulic power-steering pump for a 2017 Forester, it’s the wrong part. Pumps apply to earlier hydraulic systems, not this vehicle.

Good servicing for the 2017 Forester’s EPS focuses on keeping the electrical system in top nick, ensuring wheel alignment and suspension components are tight, and scanning for EPS fault codes if a warning light appears. Workshops may also check for software updates or relevant technical bulletins via STIS. If assistance is lost due to a fault, repairs typically involve the EPS motor/column assembly or control unit—not a pump swap.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Forester power-steering pump

Does a 2017 Subaru Forester have a power-steering pump?
It doesn’t. The 2017 Forester uses Electric Power Steering (EPS), confirmed by Subaru’s Owner’s and Service Manuals for the SJ series. Steering assist comes from an electric motor, so there’s no hydraulic pump to service or replace.

Where do you check the power-steering fluid on a 2017 Forester?
There’s no power-steering fluid to check. If you’re seeing a fluid leak near the front of the car, it’ll be something else (common culprits include engine oil or coolant). EPS removes the need for hydraulic fluid entirely.

What maintenance keeps the EPS happy on a 2017 Forester?
Keep the battery and charging system healthy, maintain correct wheel alignment and tyre pressures, and have the car scanned if the steering warning light pops up. Technicians may also review Subaru STIS for any steering-related software updates or bulletins.