The power steering setup on a Honda Accord depends on the model year. Older Accords with hydraulic power steering have a belt-driven pump mounted on the front of the engine, typically on the passenger side. Newer Accords often use electric power steering (EPS), which means there is no hydraulic pump at all—the steering assist is provided by an electric motor near the steering rack or column.
Below is a year-and-technology-guide to help you identify where to look in your specific Accord, and what to expect in terms of components and layout.
Hydraulic power steering (older Accords)
If your Accord still uses hydraulic power steering, here’s how to locate the pump and related components.
- Look at the front of the engine on the passenger side for a compact metal pump with a pulley that is driven by the serpentine belt.
- The power steering reservoir is usually mounted near the pump, or sometimes integrated with the pump itself; look for a cap labeled “Power Steering” or “PSF” and a translucent reservoir for fluid level.
- Follow the high-pressure line from the pump to the steering rack; you’ll see hoses routed along the engine bay to the steering gear.
- Check the belt routing to confirm which pulley drives the pump; if you don’t find a hydraulic pump, your Accord may use electric power steering (EPS).
In this hydraulic setup, the pump and its reservoir are the primary indicators of a traditional PS system, and their absence points to an electronic system.
Electric power steering (newer Accords)
If your Accord uses electric power steering, there is no hydraulic pump or fluid reservoir. The steering assist comes from an electric motor integrated with the steering rack or, in some designs, mounted near the column.
- Note the lack of a traditional power steering fluid reservoir and pump under the hood.
- Look for an EPS motor mounted to the steering rack (often near the driver's side of the subframe) with electrical connectors and wiring harnesses leading to the vehicle’s control module.
- There may be a diagnostic connector or fuse related to the EPS system; check the owner’s manual or fuse box diagram for the exact location.
- Issues with steering feel, noise, or power assist may involve the EPS motor, wiring, or the steering angle sensor rather than a pump or fluid.
In EPS-equipped Accords, treatment typically involves electronic diagnostics, sensor checks, and software/firmware considerations rather than hydraulic fluid maintenance.
How to determine which system your car has
To confirm which power steering system your Honda Accord uses, you can:
- Inspect under the hood for a reservoir and pump (hydraulic) versus a clean absence of such a pump and reservoir (EPS).
- Consult the owner’s manual or service manual for your exact model year and trim level.
- Check for a label on the engine bay or under the hood that specifies “EPS” or “electric power steering.”
- Ask a dealer or a trusted mechanic if you’re unsure, especially if you’re diagnosing steering issues.
Understanding which system your Accord uses will guide you to the correct location and the appropriate maintenance or repair steps.
Summary
In short, the location of the power steering pump on a Honda Accord depends on the system your car uses. Hydraulic PS, common on older models, features a belt-driven pump mounted on the front of the engine near the passenger side. Electric power steering, common on newer models, has no hydraulic pump or fluid reservoir and relies on an EPS motor near the steering rack or column. Always verify with your vehicle’s manual or a trusted technician to get the exact configuration for your specific year and trim.