Parts for your 2018 Toyota Hiace-Power steering fluid

Power Steering Fluid and the 2018 Toyota Hiace: What You Need to Know

The 2018 Toyota Hiace is a popular workhorse, widely used across Australia for everything from trades to transport. When it comes to maintenance, one common question that pops up is whether this vehicle requires power steering fluid. After consulting technical sources and official Toyota documentation, it turns out that the 2018 Toyota Hiace does not actually use traditional power steering fluid. Instead, it employs an electric power steering system, which means no hydraulic power steering fluid is involved.

So why does the 2018 Hiace skip the usual power steering fluid? It all comes down to the type of steering system fitted. Older vehicles, and some contemporary models, use hydraulic power steering systems where a pump driven by the engine circulates hydraulic fluid to provide that effortless steering feel. This hydraulic fluid is often called power steering fluid, and it plays an essential role in transmitting pressure to help turn the wheels smoothly and with less effort.

However, the 2018 Toyota Hiace moves away from this hydraulic setup in favour of Electric Power Steering (EPS). EPS systems use an electric motor to assist the driver in turning the wheel, rather than relying on hydraulic pressure and fluid. Because no hydraulic components are involved, there is no reservoir to fill or fluid to replace. This design helps reduce maintenance needs and boosts fuel efficiency since the electric motor only uses energy when the steering assistance is required.

Electric power steering systems come with their own set of advantages and minor drawbacks. On the plus side, the absence of power steering fluid means no risk of leaks, which can be a common cause of steering problems in older hydraulic systems. It also contributes to a cleaner engine bay and less hassle during regular service visits. Drivers might notice a slightly different steering feel compared to traditional systems, but EPS offers precise control and can even improve safety by adapting the steering effort to driving conditions.

For Hiace owners, this means no topping up of power steering fluid, no checking for leaks, and no flushing or replacement as part of routine servicing. Instead, servicing focuses on keeping the EPS system's hardware in good shape, like steering sensors and the electric motor itself. If any faults arise, they generally show up as warning lights or unusual steering behaviour, prompting inspection by a qualified technician who can diagnose the electric system.

That said, it is still super important to keep up with regular maintenance on the 2018 Toyota Hiace to ensure the steering system stays in top nick. While there is no power steering fluid to worry about, other components like the steering column, tie rods, and suspension bearings do require regular checks and lubrication where applicable. Additionally, tyre condition and pressure significantly affect steering performance and safety.

For those curious about power steering fluid in other vehicles, here is a quick rundown on why it is vital where it is used. Power steering fluid acts as a hydraulic medium that transmits pressure from a steering pump to hydraulic cylinders or assist devices. It also lubricates moving parts within the steering gearbox or rack and pinion, helping to reduce wear and tear. This fluid can degrade over time due to heat and contaminants, so replacing it according to the manufacturer's schedule is important in vehicles with hydraulic power steering systems.

Generally, when power steering fluid is fitted, replacement or flushing every 50,000 to 100,000 kilometres is recommended, or as per service intervals outlined in the owner's manual. Servicing involves draining the old fluid, flushing the system to clear out contaminants, and refilling with the correct type of fluid. Neglecting this can lead to noisy steering, stiff feel, or even damage to the power steering pump. For the Toyota Hiace owners, though, this traditional fluid service step is happily not needed thanks to the electric power steering system.

Ultimately, if you're working on or owning a 2018 Toyota Hiace, it's safe to put the power steering fluid can back on the shelf. Instead, focus on regular logbook servicing, timely suspension checks, and ensuring the electric steering system electronics are performing as they should. This modern system not only simplifies maintenance but also offers a reliable and efficient steering experience that suits urban and rural Aussie conditions perfectly.