Acura Power Steering Check Fluid, Noise, Problems

In this guide, you will learn how to check and add Power Steering (PS) fluid on Acura vehicles. Common Acura power steering problems. Plus instructions on how to change Acura power steering pump. This guide applies to multiple Acuras including TL, CL, RL, TSX, RDS, ILX, TLX, RLX, MDX, ZDX. If the power steering fluid level is low on your Acura, you will hear a whine when you turn the steering wheel. It is not recommended to drive your Acura with no power steering fluid in it. Doing so will eventually burn the power steering pump.

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1. Acura Power Steering Noise

The most common symptom that your Acura is low on power steering fluid is a whining or groaning noise coming from the engine.

• Acura groaning noise when turning steering wheel,
• Steering wheel is difficult to turn, typically at cold start,
• Whining noise when turning steering wheel left or right,
• Acura steering wheel slow to respond,
• Acura steering wheel is stiff, 
• Squeaking noise at startup

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2. How to add power steering fluid on a Acura

What you will need

• Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid

Instructions

Step 1: Open hood

Locate the hood release underneath the dash. Pull the lever until you hear the hood pop open. Next, you need to release the hood safety latch at the front of the hood. Lift up the hood and make sure the hood is secure. 

Step 2: Locate power steering reservoir

Next, you need to locate the power steering pump on your Acura. 

Step 3: Remove power steering cap

Once you locate the power steering reservoir on your Acura remove the plastic cover. You will be able to see the reseroir and the cap. Remove the cap and inspect current condition of the power steering fluid.

Step 4: Add power steering fluid

Adding power steering fluid on 2004-2013 Acura is easy and these instructions apply to various models including Acura TL, CL, RL, TSX, RDS, ILX, TLX, RLX, MDX, ZDX.

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3. Acura Power Steering Fluid Type

Most Acuras use Honda HG Genuine Power Steering Fluid (# 08206-9002) which is formulated specifically for Acura. Genuine Honda power steering should be used whenever possible. Aftermarket power steering fluids will work but when used for an extended period of time may have an impact on the power steering seals. 

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4. Acura Power Steering Pump Problems

Seals and O-rings

The #1 problem with Acura vehicles is a power steering fluid leak from defective o ring gasket. These gaskets are part of the power steering system and over time become brittle which in turn causes leaks and allows air to enter the PS system. 

If you don't mind getting dirty and some basic DIY skills you can purchase a new Acura Power Steering Seal Kit and replace the damaged o-ring yourself. 

Leak

Another problem with Acuras is a leak from the power steering pump hose. The hose can develop longitudinal cracks or may crack at the clamp. Replacing the hose is a relatively easy DIY job and inexpensive repair. 

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5. Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost

The average cost to replace Acura power steering pump can range from $200 to $600. At the dealership the cost to replace power steering pump on a late model Acura can cost over $650. It is possible to replace Acura power steering pump yourself and save hundreds of dollars. The cost of a new Acura power steering pump can range from $65 to $150. You need to two to three hours to change an Acura power steering pump yourself. 

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6. DIY Acura Power Steering Pump Replacement

What you will need

• Basic Tools
• 4" ratchet extension 
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Open the hood and locate the power steering pump. 
2. Remove the serpentine belt. 
3. Remove the high-pressure line from the power steering pump. 
4. Remove the return line from the power steering pump. 
5. Remove the mounting bolts. 
6. Remove and replace 

Video

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7. Acura Power Steering Recall

Acura has recalled thousands of cars for power steering issues. It is recommended to call the Acura dealer and provide them with your VIN number. Ask if there are any service bulletins or recalls. If there are recalls the Acura dealer will fix power steering problem free of charge. If there is a service bulletin, the dealer may or may not fix the problem free of charge. It doesn't hurt to ask. Here are some examples of Acura power steering pump recalls and service bulletins. 

• Power Steering Moans or Whines During Cold Start-Up
  • Service Bulletin 07-060

A moan or whine is heard when turning the steering wheel when the engine is cold. There may be air bubbles or foam in the power steering reservoir. The noise usually goes away when the engine warms up. Air is entering the power steering pump through the inlet joint O-ring. This causes bubbles to form in the power steering fluid, leading to reduced pump performance.

•  TL Power Steering Feed Hose Leak
  • Service Bulletin 08-016

Prolonged high under-hood temperatures may cause the power steering hose to deteriorate prematurely and may cause the hose to crack and leak power steering fluid. Power steering fluid leaking onto a hot catalytic converter will generate smoke and could lead to an under-hood fire.

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