Do all cars have electric power steering?
Not all cars use electric power steering (EPS). The vast majority of new cars today rely on some form of power-assisted steering, and EPS is now the dominant choice for most passenger vehicles. However, hydraulic power steering (HPS) and, in a few cases, manual steering still appear in certain models and markets. The answer depends on the vehicle’s age, purpose, and where it’s sold.
What is electric power steering and how does it differ?
Electric power steering uses an electric motor to provide steering assist rather than a belt-driven hydraulic pump. The motor is controlled by the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) and can vary the amount of assist depending on speed, road conditions, and driver input. This setup typically eliminates the need for a dedicated fluid pump and reservoir, reducing parasitic engine load and enabling advanced features such as variable assist and driver-assistance integration.
Key features of EPS
EPS can improve fuel efficiency, enable smarter driver aids, and allow configurable steering feel through drive modes. It also tends to require less maintenance than hydraulic systems, since there’s no hydraulic fluid to monitor. That said, EPS relies on sensors, wiring, and motor components, so faults can require specialized diagnostics.
Below is a quick guide to the main steering system families you’ll encounter in vehicles today.
- Manual steering: no power assist. Steering effort is entirely mechanical.
- Hydraulic power steering (HPS): an engine-driven hydraulic pump provides assist via fluid pressure to the steering gear.
- Electric power steering (EPS): an electric motor provides assist; no dedicated hydraulic pump is needed.
- Electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS): a hybrid approach where an electric pump powers hydraulic assist, combining hydraulic feel with electric control.
- Steer-by-wire (SBW): electronic control and actuators replace a direct mechanical link; currently rare or limited to specific models and concepts.
In practice, EPS is the dominant choice for new cars, with hydraulic systems still found on some vehicles—especially certain trucks, SUVs, or regional budget models—and manual steering largely confined to older or ultra-low-cost cars.
Do all cars in 2024–2025 use EPS?
No. While EPS is the standard for the vast majority of new passenger cars in major markets, there are notable exceptions. Some work-oriented trucks and large SUVs still rely on hydraulic or electro-hydraulic setups. A small share of very low-cost or regional-market vehicles may still use manual steering. There are also rare cases of steer-by-wire concepts or limited-run models, but they are not the norm in mainstream consumer cars.
The following points summarize where you’ll still see non-EPS setups today.
- Hydraulic power steering remains common on certain trucks, large SUVs, and some regional or budget-oriented models.
- Manual steering persists in a tiny segment of ultra-budget or classic/nostalgia-focused vehicles in some markets.
- Some models offer EHPS or hybrid configurations depending on trim, region, or market requirements.
- Steer-by-wire is mostly limited to experimental programs or high-end niche vehicles, not standard in mainstream production.
Overall, EPS dominates new-car production and is deeply integrated with modern safety and assistive technologies. Hydraulic and manual options survive mainly in specific applications or older stock, rather than as the default across most brands.
How to identify which system your car uses
Knowing which steering system your vehicle employs helps with maintenance, repair expectations, and understanding its feel. Here are practical cues to check.
Practical indicators
- Check the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s specifications for “EPS,” “HPS,” or “EHPS.”
- Inspect the engine bay for a hydraulic power steering pump and a fluid reservoir with a cap labeled “Power Steering.” If present, it’s likely hydraulic or electro-hydraulic.
- Look for the absence of a hydraulic reservoir and pump on newer cars; many EPS systems rely on an electric motor at the steering rack or column instead.
- Notice steering feel: EPS frequently offers adjustable assist via drive modes and may feel lighter at low speeds and firmer at high speeds; hydraulic systems tend to maintain more consistent feel, though with energy losses tied to engine speed.
- Consult the dealer or look up the exact model year and trim online; some models offer different steering options by region or option package.
Understanding your car’s steering system helps you anticipate maintenance needs—EPS generally requires less fluid maintenance, while hydraulic systems involve fluid checks, leaks, and pump wear. If you experience unusual steering feel, vibration, or a diagnostic warning, have the system inspected promptly to rule out sensor or actuator faults common with EPS.
Summary
Electric power steering is now the standard in most new passenger cars, delivering efficiency and advanced integration with driver-assistance features. However, hydraulic power steering and, in rare cases, manual steering still appear in certain vehicles, especially among trucks, regional markets, or older models. For most buyers, EPS represents the prevailing norm, but it’s wise to verify the exact system on any given vehicle through the manual, specifications, or dealer confirmation.
Do all new cars have electric power steering?
However, virtually all new cars on the market now use electric power steering due to cost, reliability, and user preference. Despite this, many enthusiasts profess to still favor hydraulic systems.
Which cars have electronic power steering?
Top 5 Cars with Power Steering
| Model | Price in New Delhi |
|---|---|
| Kia Sonet | Rs. 7.30 - 14 Lakh* |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | Rs. 7.28 - 14.40 Lakh* |
| Tata Tiago | Rs. 4.57 - 7.82 Lakh* |
| Kia Seltos | Rs. 10.79 - 19.81 Lakh* |
How expensive is it to fix electric power steering?
Electric power steering repair costs vary significantly depending on the specific issue, with minor fixes potentially costing $100–$300, while replacing major components like the EPS motor or full steering column can range from $300 to $1,550 or more. Factors like vehicle make and model, the specific part that needs replacement, and labor rates all influence the final price.
This video explains the cost of electric power steering repair and the factors that influence it: 1mTalkingTechTrendsYouTube · Jun 7, 2025
Cost breakdown by repair type
- Minor fixes: Simple issues like a sensor or small leak can sometimes be fixed for $100–$300.
- EPS Motor: If the electronic motor fails, replacement costs typically range from $300 to $800.
- Full Steering Column: Replacing the entire steering column is one of the more expensive repairs, with costs often falling between $530 and $1,550.
- Steering Rack: Replacing the steering rack can cost between $710 and $2,420 for most vehicles.
- Diagnostic Fees: Some shops charge a diagnostic fee, which can be around $200, to determine the exact problem.
Factors that affect the cost
- Vehicle Make and Model: The cost of parts varies significantly based on the vehicle. For example, dealer parts can be more expensive than aftermarket ones.
- Labor Costs: Labor can account for a significant portion of the total cost, especially for complex repairs like a steering column or rack replacement.
- Shop Location: Labor rates vary by geographic location, so getting quotes from different shops can be beneficial.
- Part vs. Labor: In many cases, labor costs can be higher than the price of the part itself.
- DIY vs. Professional: If you have the mechanical skill, doing the work yourself can save significant money on labor. However, professional help is recommended for more complex issues, and some repairs require specialized equipment or programming.
How do I tell if my car has electric power steering?
The simplest way to determine which one you have is to open the hood. If you see a power steering fluid reservoir, then you have a hydraulic system. If there isn't one, you can look down at the steering rack; you should be able to see the motor connected to the rack, indicating that it's electric.
