steering

Electric Power Steering Module

for 2021 Honda Civic 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.5 h

Tools

Steps

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) control module on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

⚠Disconnecting the battery will erase radio presets, clock, and stored ECU parameters. Have radio security code available if applicable.

⚠The EPS module contains sensitive electronics. Handle with care and avoid static discharge by grounding yourself before handling.

ℹ️This vehicle uses Electric Power Steering with no hydraulic fluid. Do not confuse this with traditional power steering systems.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

12mm socket and ratchetEssential

14mm socket and ratchetEssential

Torque wrenchEssential

Trim panel removal tools

Small flat-blade screwdriver

Wire brush or contact cleaner

Multimeter (for testing)

Parts

Electric Power Steering Control Module × 1 — Use OEM Honda specification

Preparation

Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
Open hood and secure with prop rod
Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
Ensure engine is cool to the touch

Procedure

1
Remove lower dashboard panel
Working from the driver's side, locate and remove the lower dashboard trim panel below the steering column. Remove the retaining screws and gently pull the panel away from the clips. Set aside in a safe location.
Torque spec
Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2
Access the EPS control module
The EPS module is mounted on the steering column assembly behind the lower dash panel. You may need to remove additional trim panels or wire routing brackets to gain clear access. Note the orientation and position of all wire harnesses for reassembly.
3
Disconnect electrical connectors
Identify the main electrical connector(s) to the EPS module. Press the locking tab on each connector and carefully pull straight back to disconnect. There are typically two connectors: a large main power connector and a smaller communication connector. Do not pull on wires, only on connector housings.
⚠Do not force connectors. If resistance is met, verify locking tabs are fully released before proceeding.
4
Remove module mounting bolts
Locate the mounting bolts securing the EPS module to the steering column bracket. Remove these bolts using a 12mm socket. Support the module with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
5
Remove EPS module from vehicle
Carefully withdraw the EPS module from its mounting location. Note any wire routing clips or guides that must be released. Maneuver the module out from behind the dash, taking care not to damage surrounding components or wire harnesses.
6
Inspect mounting area and connectors
Before installing the new module, inspect the mounting bracket for damage or corrosion. Check both electrical connectors for bent pins, corrosion, or contamination. Clean connector housings with contact cleaner if necessary. Inspect the steering column for any signs of damage.
7
Install new EPS module
Position the new EPS module onto the mounting bracket, aligning the bolt holes. Route any wire harnesses through their original clips and guides. Thread in all mounting bolts finger-tight before torquing to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
8
Reconnect electrical connectors
Connect both electrical connectors to the new EPS module, ensuring they are fully seated. You should hear and feel a distinct click when each connector locks into place. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is secure.
9
Reinstall dashboard panels
Reinstall any wire routing brackets or trim panels removed during disassembly. Install the lower dashboard panel, ensuring all clips are properly aligned before pressing into place. Install and tighten the panel retaining screws to specification.
Torque spec
Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
10
Reconnect battery and initialize system
Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. The EPS warning light should illuminate briefly then extinguish. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock (full left to full right) with the engine running to allow the system to calibrate.
ℹ️The EPS system may require steering angle sensor calibration using a Honda diagnostic scan tool (HDS) depending on the specific fault that necessitated module replacement.

Reassembly

Torque all fasteners to specified values in the order listed in the procedure
Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
Verify all trim panels are securely fastened and aligned properly
Reset radio and clock settings as needed

Verification

Start the engine and verify the EPS warning light extinguishes after 2-3 seconds
With engine running, turn steering wheel from lock to lock and verify smooth operation with normal assist
Test drive vehicle at various speeds to confirm proper power steering operation
Verify no EPS-related diagnostic trouble codes are present using a scan tool
Confirm steering returns to center normally after turning
Listen for any unusual noises from the steering column during operation