Honda Power Steering Pump Leak

[Matthew Ross]

Hey everyone,

I have a 2009 Honda Civic EX Sedan with 131,000 miles. While doing some suspension work, I noticed a few drops of fluid on the CV axle shaft. The boots were bone dry, and the fluid was clearly dropping from above. I looked directly above and noticed the power steering pump. It had a small amount of fluid on it. I took the car in to a Honda specialist (local garage, not dealer). The guy told me that the leak wasn’t severe and that it would be ok to wait before replacing it. That was several months ago. Since then, the fluid level has dropped, but not significantly. Here’s my question: If I add fluid to maintain the level, can I continue to use this pump?

Here’s another question: I found a TSB relating to a power steering pump leak for my car (Honda TSB 06-020). It says that the inlet pipe can leak. However, my VIN is not covered. Is it possible that this could be the cause of the leak even though my VIN is not in the TSB range? The inlet pipe only costs like $2, so if I can get away with just replacing that I’d be happy.

Last question: If I do need to replace the actual pump, should I buy aftermarket, refurbished, or brand new Honda part?

Thanks!

Matt

Topic

[college man]

[quote=”matthewross1987″ post=127760]Hey everyone,

I have a 2009 Honda Civic EX Sedan with 131,000 miles. While doing some suspension work, I noticed a few drops of fluid on the CV axle shaft. The boots were bone dry, and the fluid was clearly dropping from above. I looked directly above and noticed the power steering pump. It had a small amount of fluid on it. I took the car in to a Honda specialist (local garage, not dealer). The guy told me that the leak wasn’t severe and that it would be ok to wait before replacing it. That was several months ago. Since then, the fluid level has dropped, but not significantly. Here’s my question: If I add fluid to maintain the level, can I continue to use this pump?

Here’s another question: I found a TSB relating to a power steering pump leak for my car (Honda TSB 06-020). It says that the inlet pipe can leak. However, my VIN is not covered. Is it possible that this could be the cause of the leak even though my VIN is not in the TSB range? The inlet pipe only costs like $2, so if I can get away with just replacing that I’d be happy.

Last question: If I do need to replace the actual pump, should I buy aftermarket, refurbished, or brand new Honda part?

Thanks!

Matt[/quote]

Before any parts are bought I would determine where the leak is. Then address it.
If the pump is at fault only use a OE Honda pump. As long as the pump is topped
off you can use the pump but will be leaking fluid on other components like rubber
and ruin them.

[Matthew Ross]

The source of the leak is definitely the pump. I’m trying to figure out whether to replace the whole part or try to replace just the plastic inlet pipe. Part of the pump replacement procedure involves disconnecting the shift cable, which is something I’ve never done before. http://civic.hondafitjazz.com/A00/HTML/00/SNB6E00F24500047031KBAT00.html – Step 7

How difficult is it to disconnect the shift cable? The rest of the steps I can follow easily.

[college man]

This guy does not disconnect any linkage.

[Author]

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