In most Acura vehicles with hydraulic power steering, the fluid specified is Honda/Acura Automatic Transmission Fluid DW-1. Newer Acura models use electric power steering and do not require any power steering fluid. Always check your owner’s manual or the under-hood label for the exact specification for your model and year.
Hydraulic power steering: the standard fluid
Most Acura models that still rely on hydraulic power steering use a single fluid type. Using the correct fluid is important to protect seals and maintain steering performance. The standard recommendation across recent years is Honda/Acura ATF DW-1. Some older service notes historically mentioned compatible Dexron-based fluids, but the current best practice is DW-1, and you should verify for your specific year and model.
- Honda/Acura ATF DW-1: The primary recommendation for hydraulic power steering in most modern Acura vehicles.
- Dexron II/III or Dexron VI compatibility: Some older or certain model-year notes may reference compatibility, but DW-1 is preferred for most current models; always confirm with your manual or dealer.
Before listing the options, note that fluid choices can vary by model year. The following are general guidelines based on common Acura/Honda practice.
Concluding guidance: For hydraulic power steering, DW-1 is the safest default. If you cannot obtain DW-1, verify cross-compatibility with your specific model/year before using an alternative.
Electric power steering (EPS): no steering fluid required
Many newer Acura vehicles use electric power steering, which relies on an electric motor and control systems rather than hydraulic fluid. In these vehicles there is no power steering fluid to check or replace, and maintenance focuses on the electrical system, battery, and steering sensors.
- EPS uses no hydraulic power steering fluid
- Do not add PS fluid to EPS systems; follow the vehicle’s service manual for electrical/system checks
- If you experience steering feel issues, warnings, or abnormal noise, have the system diagnosed by a dealer or qualified shop
Before listing the maintenance considerations, note that EPS systems differ from traditional hydraulic PS in fluid needs.
Concluding guidance: If your Acura has EPS, the power steering fluid question does not apply. Rely on the owner's manual and dealer recommendations for EPS maintenance.
Model-year caveats
Fluid specifications can vary by model and year within the Acura lineup. Some late-model SUVs and sedans may still utilize hydraulic PS, while many newer models have transitioned to EPS. Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle in the owner’s manual, under-hood sticker, or by contacting a certified Acura dealership.
Practical tips for maintenance
To avoid issues, follow these best practices when servicing power steering in an Acura:
- Use the recommended fluid (DW-1 for hydraulic PS) when topping up or flushing, unless the manual specifies otherwise
- Do not mix fluids from different families or use non-recommended substitutes
- For EPS, do not add power steering fluid; diagnose electrical components if there are steering problems
Before performing any maintenance, ensure you know whether your model uses hydraulic PS or EPS.
Concluding guidance: When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a certified Acura technician to confirm the correct fluid and procedure for your vehicle.
Summary
Most Acura models with hydraulic power steering require Honda/Acura ATF DW-1 as the standard fluid, with DW-1 being the preferred choice across recent years. Newer vehicles with electric power steering do not use hydraulic fluid at all. Always verify the exact specification for your year and model in the owner’s manual or with a dealer, and follow proper maintenance guidelines to keep the steering system operating smoothly.
What power steering fluid does an Acura take?
VPS Power Steering Fluid for Honda®/Acura® is a full-synthetic fluid that is specifically formulated for Honda/Acura with dedicated additives to meet the demands of most power steering systems.
Can I use Prestone power steering fluid in my Acura?
100,000-mile fluid life which is 2X more than conventional fluid, extending the time between replacement. Engineered for use in Asian vehicle manufacturers: Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Nissan, Infiniti, Kia, Hyundai, Subaru, Mazda, Suzuki and others.
Are Honda and Acura ATF 2.0 the same?
You are buying a case (12 quarts) of Type 2.0 automatic transmission fluid. Both Acura (08200-9015A) and Honda (08200-9015) labels are the same exact fluid specs.
What power steering fluid can I use in a Honda?
LUBEGARD® COMPLETE™ Synthetic Power Steering Fluid for Honda®/Acura® & HD was engineered specifically for 2007 and newer Honda® & Acura® applications that call for a high-viscosity, fully synthetic power steering fluid. It is also backwards compatible with older Honda® & Acura® vehicles.