
How to Read & Clear Acura Fault Codes
In this guide, you will find instructions on how to read and clear Acura fault codes from multiple systems.
In this guide, you will learn how to check and add Power Steering (PS) fluid on Acura vehicles.
If the power steering fluid level is low, you will hear a whine when you turn the steering wheel. It is not recommended to drive your Acura with low power steering fluid. Doing so will eventually burn the power steering pump.
The following steps will help you check and add power steering fluid on Acura vehicles.
Open the hood. Locate the hood release underneath the dash. Pull the lever until you hear the hood pop open.
Locate the power steering reservoir.
This guide applies to multiple Acuras, including TL, CL, RL, TSX, RDS, ILX, TLX, RLX, MDX, ZDX.
The most common symptom that your Acura is low on power steering fluid is whining or groaning noise coming from the engine.
The #1 problem with Acura vehicles is a power steering fluid leak from a defective o ring gasket.
These gaskets are part of the power steering system and become brittle over time, which 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 on eBay and replace the damaged o-ring yourself.
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.
The average cost to replace an Acura power steering pump can range from $200 to $600.
At the dealership, the cost to replace the power steering pump on a late model Acura can cost over $650.
It is possible to replace the Acura power steering pump yourself and save hundreds of dollars.
The cost of a new Acura power steering pump on eBay can range from $65 to $150. You need two to three hours to change an Acura power steering pump yourself.
A brief overview of how to change the Acura power steering pump.
Most Acuras use Honda HG Genuine Power Steering Fluid (# 08206-9002), 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, it may impact the power steering seals.
Acura has recalled thousands of cars for power steering issues. It is recommended to call the Acura dealer and provide them with your VIN.
Ask if there are any service bulletins or recalls. If there are recalls, the Acura dealer will fix the 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.
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.
Prolonged high under-hood temperatures may cause the power steering hose to deteriorate prematurely and cause the hose to crack and leak power steering fluid.
Power steering fluid leaking onto a hot catalytic converter will generate smoke and lead to an under-hood fire.
By YOUCANIC Automotive Experts Published on: Friday, February 16, 2018. |