Honda CRV Power Steering Fluid
If you drive a pre-2011 Honda CRV, you’ll need to periodically change its power steering fluid. Learn how—and how often—to do it here.
Written by Natalie Todoroff
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
If you drive a pre-2011 Honda CRV, you’ll need to flush its power steering fluid every 80,000 to 100,000 miles or every two to three years—whichever comes first. Having a mechanic do it for you can run you upwards of $100, but we can show you how to do it yourself for around $20!
Select older models of Honda’s CRV use a hydraulic steering system as opposed to an electric power steering system. In a hydraulic steering system, the power steering pump requires a certain fluid (aptly named power steering fluid) in order to pressurize the steering system. But, this fluid doesn’t last forever; to keep your steering wheel turning smoothly, you’ll need to periodically change out its power steering fluid.
And
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What type of power steering fluid does Honda CRV use?
Before we roll up our sleeves and into changing your power steering fluid, you’ll first need to know which kind to buy. Not all power steering fluids are the same! For the CRV, Honda recommends that you use
Genuine Honda power steering fluid
($8.37 for 12oz). This one has Honda’s stamp of approval and is specifically engineered to work with all Honda engines, including the CRV. Or, if the Genuine Honda steering fluid is out of stock, you can also purchase one of the following fluids:
- Idemitsu PSF Universal power steering fluid($7.99 for 12oz)
- Autozone Honda power steering fluid($7.99 for 12oz)
Honda steering systems require a specific, high-viscosity power steering fluid. This means you have to be extra mindful when choosing a power steering fluid—anything that doesn’t meet Honda’s standards can damage your steering system.
How to change Honda CRV power steering fluid
Now that you know what to buy, let’s learn how to change your Honda CRV power steering fluid! Taking it to a mechanic can cost upwards of $100, but we’ll show you how to do it for as little as $10! Here’s what you’ll need:
- A bucket for your old power steering fluid
- Gloves
- Power steering fluid
Step 1:
Open the hood
of your CRV and locate the white ABS plastic power steering fluid reservoir, on the firewall of the driver's side of the engine. Step 2: Remove the cap of the power steering fluid reservoir and insert your pump to pump out the old power steering fluid, disposing of the old fluid into the bucket.
Step 3: Pour fresh power steering fluid into the power steering reservoir and replace the cap.
Step 4: Drive your vehicle as you normally would, and repeat the process the following week. Draining out the power steering fluid two or three times will ensure that all of the old fluid has fully flushed from your system.
What is the power steering fluid change interval for a Honda CRV?
Luckily, you won’t have to worry about doing this every single weekend. For the CRV,
Honda
recommends that you change your power steering fluid every 80,000 to 100,000 miles, or every two to three years—whichever comes first. But, if your power steering fluid needs to be changed a little ahead of schedule, your vehicle won’t be shy about letting you know. The following signs all point to problems with your power steering fluid:
- A stiff, hard-to-turn steering wheel
- Unusually loose steering wheel
- A groaning noise when turning the wheel
When in doubt, take a look under your hood and peer into the power steering fluid reservoir. Healthy, fresh, and functional power steering fluid is a clear pink or amber color. If it’s turned a darker color like black or brown, that probably means that you’ll need to flush the system.
How to save on Honda CRV insurance
By draining the power steering system yourself, you’re able to majorly scale back your vehicle’s routine expenses. And, by downloading
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