Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Power steering pump

2017 Subaru Impreza and the power‑steering pump: what owners need to know

For the 2017 Subaru Impreza (all trims, hatch and sedan), a traditional hydraulic power‑steering pump isn’t fitted or required. Subaru engineered this model with electric power steering (EPS) — an electric assist motor integrated with the steering rack — so there’s no pump, no hydraulic lines, and no power‑steering fluid. This is confirmed by technical sources including the 2017 Subaru Impreza Owner’s Manual, which states the car uses electric power steering and has no fluid to check, and the Subaru Service Manual (STIS) for the 2017MY Impreza, which details the EPS control module, torque sensor and assist motor rather than any hydraulic components. Subaru’s 2017 model literature also describes the system as electric power‑assisted rack‑and‑pinion steering.

Why Subaru doesn’t use a pump on this model comes down to efficiency, reliability and integration. EPS removes belt‑driven drag on the engine, helping fuel economy and lowering emissions. It cuts out common hydraulic issues like leaks, perished hoses and noisy pumps. It also pairs neatly with driver‑assist tech available on the Impreza, offering speed‑sensitive assist and the ability to interface with safety systems where fitted.

Because there’s no pump, there’s nothing to replace or top up in terms of power‑steering fluid on a 2017 Impreza. As part of regular servicing, the practical checks are:

• Electrical health: ensure the battery and charging system are in good nick — low voltage can affect EPS performance.
• Steering and suspension: inspect the rack boots, tie‑rod ends, and front suspension for wear, keep wheel alignment and tyre pressures correct to avoid heavy steering feel.
• Diagnostics: if the EPS warning light appears or steering feels intermittently heavy, scan for fault codes and inspect the column/rack connectors and grounds.

If someone is searching for a “2017 Subaru Impreza power‑steering pump” as a replacement part, it’s simply not applicable. Heavy steering or warnings on this model point to EPS‑related items (e.g., the torque sensor, assist motor, wiring, or the EPS control module) or basic mechanical/tyre issues rather than a failed hydraulic pump.

Common symptoms to watch for include the EPS warning icon on the dash, noticeably heavier steering at low speeds, or assist that drops out after start‑up. Any of these warrant a scan with a capable diagnostic tool and a professional inspection. The upside for Aussie and Kiwi owners is less maintenance overall — just keep the electrical system healthy and the front end tight, and the steering should stay sweet for many kilometres.

• Does a 2017 Subaru Impreza have a power‑steering pump?
  No. It uses electric power steering (EPS), so there’s no hydraulic pump, no reservoir and no fluid.
• What power‑steering fluid does a 2017 Impreza need?
  None. There’s no fluid to check or replace because the system is electric, not hydraulic.
• How is the steering system serviced on a 2017 Impreza?
  Service focuses on the battery/charging system, wheel alignment, tyre pressures, and checks of the steering rack boots, tie‑rod ends and EPS wiring. Faults are diagnosed via scan tool rather than fluid leaks or pump noise.