Parts for your 2017 Subaru Outback-Power steering fluid

Power Steering Fluid for the 2017 Subaru Outback: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Subaru Outback is a great vehicle known for its reliability and capability, especially in all kinds of Australian conditions. When it comes to the power steering system in this model, many car owners wonder if it actually uses power steering fluid and what kind of maintenance is involved.

Here's the thing: The 2017 Subaru Outback does not use traditional power steering fluid because it employs an electric power steering system instead of a hydraulic one. Unlike older vehicles or certain other models that rely on hydraulic power steering fluid to assist the driver in steering the car, the Outback's steering assistance comes from an electric motor. This means no hydraulic fluid reservoir, no hoses to leak, and no fluid that needs to be checked or replaced as part of normal servicing.

The move to electric power steering (also known as EPS) brings with it a range of benefits. Firstly, it reduces maintenance needs since there's no fluid to monitor or change, which is a plus for Aussies who prefer a low-maintenance ride. Secondly, electric steering systems tend to be more fuel efficient because they only use power when the driver is steering, unlike hydraulic systems that run constantly. This reduction in parasitic loss can help improve fuel economy slightly over time. Plus, electric power steering systems offer better precision and can be tuned by the manufacturer to provide a particular steering feel that fits the vehicle's character.

Given that the 2017 Subaru Outback uses electric power steering, it is important for owners to understand what that means in terms of maintenance. Since there is no traditional power steering fluid, owners shouldn't worry about topping up fluid levels or looking for leaks under the bonnet that relate to steering hydraulic systems. Instead, the focus should be on other routine checks to ensure the steering system functions smoothly.

While the electronic power steering does not need fluid, it still requires the system's components to be in good shape. Regular inspections of the steering linkage, tie rods, and the condition of the power steering motor and sensors can be part of scheduled servicing. If any warning lights related to the steering system show up on the dash, or if the steering starts to feel off - like becoming unusually stiff or making strange noises - getting the vehicle checked by a qualified Subaru technician is the best step.

For those who might have a 2017 Subaru Outback and are coming from vehicles with hydraulic power steering, it is natural to wonder if any aftermarket products or fluid changes are required or recommended. The answer is no. Putting hydraulic power steering fluid or any similar fluid into an electric system can cause damage and is not advised. The electric steering system relies on its electrical components and sensors, not hydraulic pressure.

In the event that a repair or replacement of the electric power steering unit is needed, certified Subaru service centres have the specialised tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix the system properly. This can involve scanning the car's computer, which monitors the EPS system closely for any faults and records diagnostic trouble codes that help identify the problem.

Overall, Subaru's decision to use electric power steering on the 2017 Outback aligns with modern automotive trends that aim to make cars simpler to maintain, more fuel-efficient, and more environmentally friendly. For owners, this means one less fluid to worry about, which can be a definite advantage in everyday driving and servicing.

So to recap, the 2017 Subaru Outback does not use power steering fluid because it features an electric power steering system, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid. There is no topping up or changing of power steering fluid required. Owners should instead focus on mechanical inspections and rely on professional diagnostics if steering issues arise. This setup makes the vehicle easier to maintain while delivering the steering feel and assistance expected from a modern SUV.