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2021 HONDA ACCORD

1.5L I4 TurboFWDCVTgasturbo
3 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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steering

Electric Power Steering Module

for 2021 Honda Accord 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.5 h
Tools
8
Steps
12

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the electric power steering (EPS) control module on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo, which controls the electric steering assist system.

Warnings

⚠️Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes before beginning work to allow the SRS system to discharge.
The EPS module must be calibrated with a scan tool after installation or steering assist will not function properly.
Do not turn the steering wheel with the EPS module disconnected as this may damage the steering system.
ℹ️This vehicle uses electric power steering and contains no hydraulic fluid.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
12mm socket and ratchetEssential
14mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Flat-blade screwdriver
Trim panel removal tool set
Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) or equivalent scan toolEssential
Battery memory saver

Parts

  • Electric Power Steering Control Module × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Electrical connector grease (dielectric) × 1 — Honda silicone grease or equivalent

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
  2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
  3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes
  4. If available, connect battery memory saver to maintain radio/computer settings
  5. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position before beginning

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove lower dashboard trim panels
    Remove the lower driver's side dashboard panels to access the steering column area. Remove the knee bolster panel by removing the mounting screws and carefully pulling the panel away from the dashboard clips. Remove the lower steering column cover by removing the screws at the bottom of the column.
  2. 2
    Remove upper steering column covers
    Remove the upper steering column covers by removing the cover screws. Carefully separate the upper and lower halves of the column cover, being mindful of any wiring clips or harnesses routed through the covers.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  3. 3
    Locate the EPS control module
    The EPS control module is mounted on the steering column assembly, typically on the lower portion of the column near the firewall. Identify the module and note the electrical connector locations before removal.
  4. 4
    Disconnect electrical connectors
    Disconnect the main electrical connector from the EPS module by pressing the release tab and pulling the connector straight out. Disconnect any additional connectors or ground wires attached to the module. Note the routing of all wiring harnesses for reinstallation.
    Do not pull on wires; always grip the connector body to prevent wire damage.
  5. 5
    Remove EPS module mounting bolts
    Remove the mounting bolts securing the EPS module to the steering column bracket. Support the module with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
    Torque spec
    Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
  6. 6
    Remove EPS control module
    Carefully remove the EPS module from the steering column assembly. Maneuver the module away from any wiring harnesses or brackets. Inspect the mounting area and connector pins for any signs of damage, corrosion, or moisture intrusion.
  7. 7
    Prepare new EPS module
    Unpack the new EPS module and verify it matches the original part number and connector configuration. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical connector pins on the module to ensure proper connection and prevent corrosion.
  8. 8
    Install new EPS module
    Position the new EPS module onto the steering column bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Install the mounting bolts and tighten to the specified torque in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating of the module.
    Torque spec
    Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
  9. 9
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the new EPS module, ensuring each connector clicks fully into place. Verify that all connectors are properly seated and locking tabs are engaged. Route wiring harnesses in their original positions and secure any clips.
  10. 10
    Reinstall steering column covers
    Reinstall the upper and lower steering column covers, ensuring all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Install and tighten all cover screws to the specified torque.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  11. 11
    Reinstall dashboard trim panels
    Reinstall the lower steering column cover and knee bolster panel. Ensure all clips are properly engaged and mounting screws are tightened securely. Verify that all trim panels fit flush and are properly aligned.
  12. 12
    Reconnect battery and perform calibration
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) scan tool or equivalent professional-grade scanner. Navigate to the EPS system and perform the EPS module initialization and steering angle sensor calibration procedures as directed by the scan tool. This step is critical for proper operation.
    ⚠️Failure to properly calibrate the EPS module will result in steering assist malfunction and may illuminate warning lights.

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
  2. Verify all trim panels are properly secured and aligned
  3. Double-check that all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
  4. Confirm battery is reconnected and terminals are clean and tight

Verification

  • Start the engine and verify the EPS warning light turns off after a few seconds
  • Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock while stationary and verify smooth power assist operation
  • Test drive the vehicle at low speed and verify steering assist functions normally in both directions
  • Use scan tool to verify no DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) are present in the EPS system
  • Verify steering returns to center properly after turns
  • Check that all dashboard warning lights related to steering are extinguished

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