power steering issue

2005 HONDA CIVIC HYBRID
112,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
INGRAM01
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have a 2005 Honda Civic Hybrid. The issue I have is the power steering. I haven't done anything to the car yet. I onl looked at te manual to see if I need to change the liquid but couldn't find anything related to power steering. I'm assuming it doesn't take liquid. How do I remedy the stiffness?
Feb 21, 2011 at 5:08 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
ERNEST CLARK
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 1,730 POSTS
You are right, your's is an electrical power steering system. It has a motor for assist instead of a pump and fluid. It's controlled by it's own computer which uses sensor inputs to control the amount of assist.

The steering computer is monitored the main computer. If there's a problem you should've gotten a code. Is there any check engine lights on? If so, scan the computer. Also, you can visually check the wiring/connectors at the motor/computer/angle sensor, etc.
Feb 21, 2011 at 5:51 AM
Avatar
INGRAM01
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I'll check for the engine light tommorrow. How do I scan the computer?
Feb 21, 2011 at 10:53 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
ERNEST CLARK
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 1,730 POSTS
Please follow this guide

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Please run down this guide and report back.
Feb 21, 2011 at 1:39 PM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 41,814 POSTS
It is the EPS indicator that you should be checking.

EPS INDICATOR
Under normal conditions, the EPS indicator comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position, then goes off after the engine is started. This indicates that the bulb and its circuit are operating correctly.

If there is any trouble in the system after the engine is started, the EPS indicator will stay on, and the power assist is turned off.

When EPS indicator light comes on, the control unit memorizes the DTC. In this case, the control unit will not activate the EPS system after the engine starts again, but it keeps the EPS indicator on.

When DTC 12, 16, 17, 18, or 67 is stored in the control unit, the EPS indicator will stay on until the DTC is erased. When a problem is detected and the EPS indicator comes on, there are cases when the indicator stays on until the ignition switch is turned OFF, and cases when the indicator goes off automatically when the system returns to normal. Even though the system is operating normally, the EPS indicator will come on under the following conditions:

Condition 1 (CVT model only):

• The A/T shift lever position is in other than N or P position.
• The vehicle's speed is 1 mph (1 km/h) or below and engine is running at 1,900 rpm or above for 90 seconds (DTC 27).

Condition 2:

• When the vehicle speed is 6.2 mph (10 km/h) or above and the engine is running at 280 rpm or below for 3 seconds (DTC 23).

Condition 3:

• The shift lever is in neutral.
• The clutch pedal is depressed.
• The vehicle's speed is above 13 mph (20 km/h) for more than 60 seconds.

To determine the actual cause of the problem, question the customer about the conditions during which the problem occurred, taking the above conditions into consideration.

© 2008 Mitchell Repair Information Co., LLC.

For code retrieval you either use a Honda Diagnostic System or manually use a jumper across terminal 4 and 9 of the DLC and read the blinking code of the EPS light with ignition switch turned on.
Feb 21, 2011 at 1:47 PM
Avatar
ERNEST CLARK
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 1,730 POSTS
The EPS module is monitored by the PCM and will store that code. If you want to save money, then you want to avoid going to a dealer. If the parts store's scanner isn't capable of reading the manufacturers specific code, then you can go to a shop who has a scanner updated for your model/year.

The majority of complaints I've seen with the EPS was in the wiring/connector or Angle position sensor. Not that this will be your problem, but keep in mind, if you get a code for the angle sensor it means there's a problem in the circuit, not that the sensor is necessarily bad. But that usually is the case, make sure you check the wiring/connectors before replacing the sensor.
Feb 21, 2011 at 2:00 PM
Avatar
DTEC05
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I seriously doubt I will get a response but my si was flooded in a bad storm and I replaced the PCM and updated it to my key, car runs great but power steering is not working and EPS is on... I want to just purchase a new power steering module since I am sure it may of gotten wet but have no idea where it is located as I have tried looking for it...
Jan 3, 2017 at 7:16 PM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 48,601 POSTS
first before you replace anything have a mechanic scan for codes as it may not be the module besides he would have to program it once it's installed. you just can't replace it
Jan 4, 2017 at 12:26 PM
Avatar
CRICKET1001
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
What if I can’t drive my car because of the power steering being out? How can I get my 2005 Honda Civic Hybrid Pro scanned to find the proper codes?
Jan 8, 2020 at 10:32 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,855 POSTS
You don't need to get it pro scanned a regular scanner will do it here is a guide to help you

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Please run down this guide and report back.

Jan 10, 2020 at 11:10 AM
Avatar
CRICKET1001
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
It ended up that all I needed was a new battery. I found someone who could put the battery in my car in my driveway. Car running very smooth now! Thanks for all of your help!!!
Jan 12, 2020 at 1:21 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,855 POSTS
Has it the hybrid or 12 volt car battery? Glad you could get it fixed, that kind of problem can be tough. Please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.
Jan 13, 2020 at 11:46 AM