In short, no. The 2017 Honda Accord uses electric power steering (EPS), which does not rely on hydraulic fluid or a dedicated power steering fluid reservoir.
That means the steering assist is provided by an electric motor controlled by the vehicle's computer, drawing energy from the 12-volt electrical system. If you notice unusual steering effort, a warning light, or stiffness, the issue is usually electrical or related to the steering hardware rather than a fluid leak. This article explains how EPS works in the 2017 Accord, what maintenance (or lack thereof) is involved, and how to recognize and respond to steering problems.
How EPS works in the 2017 Honda Accord
Electric power steering uses a motor attached to the steering rack to provide assist, rather than a hydraulic pump-driven by the engine. Because it relies on electricity, there is no power steering fluid to check or refill, and the system can also adapt to different driving modes and speeds. A fault typically triggers a dashboard warning and may require repair or software updates rather than a fluid service.
What this means for maintenance
Since there is no hydraulic fluid in the system, routine PS fluid checks are not part of normal maintenance for the 2017 Accord. Instead, maintenance focuses on the electrical system, battery health, wiring, and wheel alignment. If the EPS warning light appears, or if steering feels erratic, a diagnostic by a qualified technician is recommended.
Before we list practical tips, it helps to summarize the key distinction: EPS uses electricity to assist steering, so there is no reservoir of power steering fluid to inspect or replace. This reduces fluid-related maintenance but shifts the focus to the car’s electrical and control systems.
Key differences between electric power steering (EPS) and traditional hydraulic power steering (HPS):
- Power source: EPS uses an electric motor powered by the vehicle's 12-volt system; HPS uses a hydraulic pump driven by the engine.
- Fluid presence: EPS has no dedicated power steering fluid reservoir; HPS relies on power steering fluid that must be checked and topped up.
- Maintenance focus: EPS requires attention to battery health and electrical connections; HPS requires monitoring for leaks and fluid cleanliness.
- Feel and adjustability: EPS can vary with drive modes and speed via software; HPS provides a more constant hydraulic feel.
In short, the 2017 Accord’s EPS design means you won’t find or service a power steering fluid reservoir, and problems are usually addressed through electrical/system diagnostics rather than fluid changes.
Maintaining an EPS-equipped Accord
Even without a fluid reservoir to monitor, you still need to care for the car’s overall steering reliability. The following checklist focuses on the elements that can influence EPS performance, beyond fluids.
Maintenance checklist for EPS-equipped Accords:
- Keep the 12-volt battery and charging system in good health, as EPS relies on stable electrical power.
- Ensure tires are properly inflated, and perform regular wheel alignment checks to prevent uneven steering load.
- Monitor for warning lights related to Steering, EPS, or the electrical system and have diagnostics run if indicated.
- Ask a technician to perform software updates or recalibration if steering feels off or there are mode-specific changes in assist.
Concluding note: With EPS, routine fluid maintenance is largely a non-issue, but electrical health and drivetrain alignment remain important for reliable steering assistance.
What to do if you notice steering issues
If steering feels heavy, irregular, or a warning light appears, follow these steps to address the problem safely and efficiently.
- Check for any steering-related warning lights on the dashboard and note any error codes.
- Check the vehicle’s battery and charging system; a weak electrical supply can affect EPS performance.
- Inspect tires for wear and proper inflation, and ensure there are no obvious mechanical obstructions or damaged tie rods.
- Avoid driving aggressively or at high speed with suspected EPS issues; have the car towed or serviced promptly if steering feels compromised.
- Visit a certified Honda technician or dealer for a diagnostic that may include software updates, sensor checks, or steering rack evaluations.
Bottom line: Steering issues in a 2017 Accord are typically electrical or mechanical rather than fluid-related, and prompt professional diagnosis helps prevent further risk.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Accord uses electric power steering, so there is no power steering fluid to inspect or replace. Maintenance centers on the electrical system, battery health, tires, and alignment, with EPS-related faults identified by warning lights and diagnosed by professionals. If steering problems arise, seek a timely diagnostic to determine whether software updates, sensor checks, or component replacement are necessary.