Does the Toyota Yaris 2007 have electric power steering?
No. The 2007 Toyota Yaris does not use a pure electric power steering (EPS) system. It relies on hydraulic power steering, with many markets using an electro-hydraulic variant that uses an electric motor to drive the hydraulic pump. This article explains what that means, how to identify the system on your car, and what you can expect from it.
What power steering system did the 2007 Yaris use?
The 2007 Yaris, part of the XP90 generation sold globally from the mid-2000s, generally used hydraulic power steering (HPS). In many regions, the system is an electro-hydraulic variant (EHPS), where an electric motor drives the hydraulic pump rather than the engine belt, but it is not a pure, all-electric power steering system. The core effect is hydraulic assistance, with the presence or absence of an electric pump depending on the market and trim.
Market and model-year nuances
While the base design was hydraulic, some regional specifications and later updates may reflect EHPS configurations. The essential point for a 2007 Yaris is that it is not a stand-alone electric (non-hydraulic) power steering system in the traditional sense.
How to tell if your Yaris has EPS, EHPS, or HPS
To verify the exact type on your specific vehicle, look for physical indicators and consult documentation.
- Look for a power steering fluid reservoir and hydraulic hoses connected to a pump mounted on the engine. If these are present (and there are hoses and a fluid reservoir), it is hydraulic power steering (HPS). If the pump is present but driven by an electric motor, it may be electro-hydraulic (EHPS).
- Check for an electric motor near the steering pump or near the steering rack, plus electrical connectors and wiring that run to a control module. An absence of fluid lines with an electric motor usually indicates pure electric power steering (EPS) or an EHPS setup depending on the design.
- Refer to the owner's manual or service documentation for the exact system designation (for example, “Hydraulic Power Steering,” “Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering,” or “Electric Power Steering”).
Understanding these indicators helps when diagnosing steering issues or planning maintenance. HPS/EHPS systems require fluid level checks and pump/belt inspections, while EPS-only systems rely on electrical diagnostics and controller software checks.
What to expect from the 2007 Yaris' steering system
Hydraulic power steering responds with a traditional feel that many drivers recognize: consistent assist that can vary with engine speed and steering input. EHPS variants offer similar behavior but may have additional electrical controls that smooth or modify assist based on vehicle conditions. Pure EPS systems, by contrast, rely entirely on electrical actuation and typically do not use hydraulic fluid, offering different steering feel and sometimes improved efficiency.
For a 2007 Yaris, most owners experience the familiar hydraulic assist. If your vehicle has an EHPS setup, the difference is that the pump is powered by an electric motor rather than the engine belt, which can affect fuel economy slightly and reduces load on the engine at idle.
Regional variations and service considerations
As a global model, the Yaris has seen minor regional variations in its power steering configuration. The broad takeaway is that the 2007 model year primarily uses hydraulic power steering, with some markets employing an electro-hydraulic arrangement. Routine maintenance focuses on fluid levels, hose integrity, and the belt driving the hydraulic pump; if the system is EHPS, electrical diagnostics and the motor/pump assembly may require attention.
When in doubt about your specific VIN, a quick check with the dealership or the service manual will confirm whether your Yaris uses hydraulic, electro-hydraulic, or electric steering assistance.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2007 Toyota Yaris does not use a pure electric power steering system. It uses hydraulic power steering, with several markets employing an electro-hydraulic variant where the hydraulic pump is driven by an electric motor. Understanding which configuration your car has helps with maintenance decisions and diagnosing steering issues.
Summary
The 2007 Toyota Yaris primarily relies on hydraulic power steering, with some regional variants using electro-hydraulic assist. It is not a pure electric power steering system. For precise identification, consult the owner’s manual or a dealership service department, especially to determine if an EHPS setup is present on your VIN.
