maintenance
Power Steering Service
for 2021 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
2
Steps
5
This procedure addresses service for the 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 AWD, which uses an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system that requires no fluid service or maintenance.
Warnings
ℹ️The 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 is equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS) which has no hydraulic fluid to service. Traditional power steering fluid service does not apply to this vehicle.
⚠If experiencing steering issues, diagnose the EPS system using proper scan tools. Do not attempt to add fluid as there is no reservoir.
Tools required
Hyundai GDS diagnostic scanner or equivalentEssential
Digital multimeter
Preparation
- Verify vehicle is equipped with Electric Power Steering by confirming absence of power steering fluid reservoir in engine bay
- Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
- Turn ignition to OFF position
Procedure
- 1Confirm Electric Power Steering SystemOpen hood and visually inspect the engine bay. Confirm there is no power steering fluid reservoir, no hydraulic pump driven by serpentine belt, and no high-pressure hydraulic lines running to the steering rack. The EPS motor is integrated into the steering column or rack assembly and is entirely electric.
- 2Inspect EPS System ComponentsCheck the condition of the EPS wiring harness for damage, chafing, or corrosion at connectors. Inspect the steering column area for proper mounting and absence of unusual noise or binding when turning the steering wheel lock to lock with vehicle stationary and engine running.
- 3Check for Diagnostic Trouble CodesConnect Hyundai GDS diagnostic scanner or equivalent OBD-II scan tool. Check for any stored or pending EPS-related fault codes in the MDPS (Motor Driven Power Steering) module. Record any codes found for further diagnosis if steering complaints exist.
- 4Verify EPS Warning Lamp OperationTurn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Verify the EPS warning lamp (steering wheel icon) illuminates briefly during bulb check and then extinguishes. If lamp remains illuminated, diagnose using factory procedures as this indicates an EPS system fault.
- 5Test EPS Assist FunctionStart the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock while stationary. EPS assist should provide smooth, consistent power assistance without jerking, hesitation, or unusual noises. Note any abnormalities for further diagnosis.
Reassembly
- No disassembly required for this verification procedure
Verification
- Confirm no EPS warning lamp is illuminated on instrument cluster
- Verify smooth and consistent power steering assist during test drive with various steering inputs
- Ensure no diagnostic trouble codes are present in MDPS module
- Educate vehicle owner that no periodic fluid service is required for the electric power steering system