How to Replace Power Steering Fluid For a 2001 Honda Accord

You can replace your 2001 Honda Accord’s power steering fluid by draining the old fluid from the reservoir, and refilling it with fresh fluid.
Written by Patrick Price
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
background
To replace your 2001 Honda Accord's power steering fluid, remove the red cap from the fluid reservoir, drain the old fluid, and then replace it with fresh power steering fluid.  
When you notice your steering wheel getting stiff or a screeching noise when you turn it, you’ll know it’s time to replace your power steering fluid. But, don’t worry—it’s much easier than it sounds! 
To walk you through the process,
Jerry
—the top-rated
car insurance
shopping app—has prepared this complete guide on how to replace the power steering fluid for a 2001 Honda Accord, as well as how to save on your
Honda Accord insurance costs
. Let’s get started! 
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How do I replace my 2001 Honda Accord’s power steering fluid?

First things first, you’ll need to gather some basic materials before you begin. Make sure you have an all-purpose
fluid transfer pump
, a quart of fresh power steering fluid, a can to hold the old fluid, and a rag. 
Once you have all of those things, here’s what you’ll need to do: 
  • Locate the power steering reservoir. You’ll find it near the back of the engine bay, all the way to the passenger side—just above the wheel well. It’s right behind the windshield fluid and can be recognized by its big red cap. 
  • Remove the red cap and insert a pump into the reservoir. Insert the hose from the fluid transfer pump directly into the fluid reservoir. 
  • Pump the old power steering fluid out of the reservoir. Pump the old fluid out of the reservoir and into the can. 
  • Refill the reservoir with new fluid and replace the cap. Pour the fresh fluid into the reservoir, replace the red cap, and use the rag to wipe up any stray fluid that may have spilled. 
And that’s it! By following those simple steps, you can quickly and easily replace your own power steering fluid. 
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

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

Not sure whether or not you want to replace the fluid yourself or have a professional do it? That’s entirely up to your own preference. However, by changing the fluid yourself, you can save $110-$120—which is what most mechanics will charge to change your power steering fluid.  
By taking your Honda to a mechanic, on the other hand, you’ll get a more thorough flush—meaning less old fluid will remain in your car. 
If you want to learn a practical car care skill and
save on car expenses
, change the fluid yourself. On the other hand, life is hectic, and if that sounds like too much hassle, you can always have a professional do the job. 

Which power steering fluid is best for a 2001 Honda Accord? 

You might be wondering what type of power steering fluid you should use. There are certainly many options. The most surefire way to pick a power steering fluid that works is by going with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) fluid that Honda itself makes. 
Here’s a look at some of the best power steering fluids for the 2001 Accord:
These are some of our favorite picks:
Power steering fluid
Amount
Cost
Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid
12 ounces
$8.37
Prestone PSF MAX Asian
12 ounces
$12.99
Peak Full Synthetic Asian Power Steering Fluid
12 ounces
$16.49
Idemitsu Lubricants Power Steering Fluid
12 ounces
$5.51
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When do I need to replace my 2001 Honda Accord’s power steering fluid?

The general is that you should replace the power steering fluid in your 2001 Honda Accord every three to four years or every 30,000 miles—whichever comes first. 
Of course, it will sometimes happen that you have to change your fluid a little early. Keep an eye out for these signs that your fluid needs replacing:
  • Screeching/squealing noises when you turn the wheel 
  • Stiff steering wheel
  • Bubbles or debris in your power steering fluid
  • Fluid leakage
If you notice any of these issues, then you should replace your power steering fluid as soon as possible. 

How to save money on Honda insurance

Your 2001 Honda Accord comes with quite a few regular expenses. Handling simple maintenance projects like changing your own power steering fluid is a great way to minimize these expenses. Another thing you can do to save some cash is download and use the free
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app! 
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FAQs

Yes! Believe it or not, changing your power steering fluid is a more straightforward home car care project. It may sound daunting, but you’ll just need to remove the red cap from the fluid reservoir, drain the old fluid, and replace it with fresh power steering fluid. Just make sure you have a fluid transfer pump and the correct replacement fluid type—that's it!
You should change your power steering fluid every 3-4 years or every 30,000 miles—whichever comes first.
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