Parts for your 2017 Toyota Avensis-Power steering pump

Power Steering Pump on the 2017 Toyota Avensis: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Toyota Avensis is a popular mid-sized car known for its reliability and smooth driving experience. When it comes to steering, many drivers might wonder if this model uses a traditional power steering pump or a different system altogether. After checking technical sources and Toyota's own specifications, it turns out that the 2017 Avensis does not use a conventional hydraulic power steering pump.

Instead, the 2017 Toyota Avensis is equipped with an Electric Power Steering system, often abbreviated as EPS. Unlike older vehicles that rely on a hydraulic power steering pump driven by the engine, an EPS system uses an electric motor to provide steering assistance. This means there is no need for a power steering pump, hydraulic fluid, or associated belts and hoses typical of a hydraulic setup.

The shift to Electric Power Steering is part of a broader trend in the automotive industry. Automakers have been favouring EPS for a number of reasons. Firstly, EPS is more fuel-efficient because it only uses power when steering assistance is required, whereas a hydraulic pump runs constantly while the engine is on, consuming energy. Secondly, EPS systems are generally lighter and take up less space under the bonnet, which is beneficial for vehicle weight distribution and overall design.

Another advantage of Electric Power Steering is the improved precision and adaptability it offers. The system can adjust the steering assistance based on the car's speed and driving conditions. At low speeds, like when parking, the steering feels very light, making manoeuvring easy. But at higher speeds, the system tightens up the steering feel to provide better control and stability. This adaptability is hard to achieve with traditional hydraulic pumps.

For these reasons, the 2017 Toyota Avensis does not come with a power steering pump as part of its steering system. This has some implications when it comes to maintenance and servicing. Since there is no hydraulic fluid or pump involved, there is no need to check or replace power steering fluid, no risk of leaks in a hydraulic system, and no pump belts to wear out or break. The maintenance of the electric steering system typically focuses on the electrical components, sensors, and the motor itself, which are usually very reliable and often last the life of the vehicle if not damaged by external factors.

Understanding that the 2017 Toyota Avensis uses Electric Power Steering rather than a hydraulic power steering pump helps clarify what owners can expect in terms of servicing and part replacement. For drivers who are used to older models or different cars that require regular fluid checks and pressure testing of the hydraulic system, this can bring peace of mind. But it also means that the typical 'power steering pump replacement' isn't a routine part of maintenance for this vehicle.

Even though an EPS system doesn't use a power steering pump, owners should still keep an eye (and ear) out for any unusual steering behaviours, such as a stiff steering wheel, intermittent assistance, or warning lights on the dashboard related to the steering system. These symptoms may indicate an electrical fault or sensor issue within the EPS. When that happens, the problem often requires diagnostic work using specialised scan tools that can communicate with the car's electric steering control unit.

Regular servicing of the 2017 Toyota Avensis will focus mostly on mechanical components like suspension and tyres that influence handling, as well as software updates or checks on the electric steering system where applicable. Toyota dealerships and reputable mechanics are well-equipped to handle EPS diagnostic and repair needs if any issues arise.

In practical terms, owning a 2017 Toyota Avensis means benefiting from advanced steering technology that simplifies maintenance and improves driving efficiency. The removal of the traditional power steering pump reduces the number of wearable parts and potential leak points, which often translates to fewer headaches and lower running costs for owners.