How to Replace Power Steering Fluid for a 2011 Honda Accord

You can easily replace the power steering fluid in your 2011 Honda Accord by following the steps in this customized how-to guide.
Written by Kathryn Mae Kurlychek
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
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To replace the power steering fluid in your 2011 Honda Accord, locate your car’s reservoir, pump out the old fluid, and fill it with brand-new Honda PSF. 
If you’ve been having problems turning your wheel or maneuvering into tight parking spaces, it just might be time to replace your Accord’s power steering fluid. Luckily,  replacing the power steering fluid is a pretty straightforward process that you can perform easily in your driveway. 
Think you’re up to the task? You don’t have to do it alone—here to walk you through the steps is
Jerry
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. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: from swapping out your power steering fluid, to which brands are best and how you can lower your
Honda Accord car insurance costs
along the way. 
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How do I replace my 2011 Honda Accord’s power steering fluid?

The first step to replacing your Honda Accord’s power steering fluid is locating the reservoir underneath your hood. You should find it on the passenger’s (left) side of your vehicle—keep your eyes peeled for a plastic or metal tank labeled “steering.” 
Once you’ve found it, check the exact levels based on the “upper level” and “lower level” lines inscribed on the side of the tank. Ideally, your power steering fluid level will fall somewhere in the middle—if it doesn’t, you’ll want to correct it immediately by adding more fluid
Topping off your power steering fluid is easy—just pour in your desired amount and clean up any spills. When it comes to changing it out entirely, a few more steps are involved, since you’ll have to pump out the old fluid and replace it with new. 
To replace the power steering fluid in your 2011 Honda Accord, here’s what to do:
  • Once the engine is cool, pop the hood and locate the power steering reservoir
  • Remove the cap and insert a pump into the reservoir. A “pump” can be anything—like a syringe or even a turkey baster—that helps you suck out the old fluid
  • Pump out the old power steering fluid. Use a container to catch the excess power steering fluid
  • Refill the reservoir with new fluid and replace the cap. Using a funnel makes this part easier. Make sure you fill it to the “upper level” line 
If you want this to be similar to a mechanic's job, you would only need to disconnect the power steering fluid lines and drain the system entirely before reattaching them. 
Now you are done! 
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

Should I change it myself or take it to a mechanic? 

If reading those steps had you feeling overwhelmed, you may feel better off taking your car to a mechanic. A repair shop can perform a
power steering fluid service
in about an hour—although you'll have to pay for the cost of materials and labor. In this case, around $118.
If, on the other hand, you want to save the extra money and take a crack at changing the power steering fluid yourself, you can pick up a bottle for between $10 and $20. Below, we’ll talk about the best type to use in your Accord. 

Which power steering fluid is best for a 2011 Honda Accord?

When it comes to choosing the best power steering fluid for your car, it’s important to know your manufacturer’s recommendation. In this case,
Honda
recommends using genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid. You can find a
12 oz bottle on Amazon
for under $10.
If you’re looking for a high-quality alternative, we’d recommend using
Prestone’s power steering fluid
, or another brand compatible with Hondas. Here’s a breakdown of our top picks:
Power steering fluid
Amount
Cost
Honda PSF
12 ounces
$9.24
Prestone PSF
12 ounces
$12.99
Peak Full Synthetic Asian
12 ounces
$16.49
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When do I need to replace my 2011 Honda Accord’s power steering fluid? 

If you’ve gone over 75,000 miles or two years with the same power steering fluid, it’s probably time for a change. If you fall behind, your car may give you warning signals to remind you to change the power steering fluid, such as: 
  • Unusual whining or screeching noises when turning the wheel
  • Difficulty steering
  • A change in color from clear to yellow, brown or black power steering fluid or bubbles in your power steering fluid
Ignoring any of these issues could cause irreparable damage to your engine (especially if fluid leaks) or experience an all-out failure of your power steering system
MORE: Why does my steering wheel shake, and how do I fix it?

How to save money on Honda insurance

Replacing your Honda's power steering fluid at home can save you hundreds of dollars down the line—and so can shopping for
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We'll help you with the phone calls, paperwork, and can even help cancel your old policy. In addition, you'll receive new quotes each time your policy comes up for renewal, so you can keep getting the coverage you want at the right price. 
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FAQs

Yes, you can easily replace the power steering fluid in your 2011 Accord at home—and doing so could save you over $100. Before you try, make sure the engine is off and cooled down, and that you have the necessary materials (fluid, syringe or pump, rags, etc.) on hand!
You should replace the power steering fluid in your 2011 Honda Accord every 75,000 miles or two years, whichever comes first. Meanwhile, you should check your power steering fluid regularly to make sure it’s at an appropriate level and there aren’t any leaks in your system.
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