What year did Honda start using electric power steering?
Honda began using electric power steering in the late 1990s, with initial production adoption around 1999; the shift gradually spread across the lineup through the 2000s and is now standard on most models.
Understanding EPS and Honda’s Transition
Electric power steering (EPS) uses an electric motor to assist steering rather than hydraulic pressure. This design can improve fuel efficiency, enable variable steering assist, and better integrate with modern driver-assistance features. Honda’s move toward EPS aligned with broader industry goals to improve efficiency and safety while offering more flexible, software-driven steering control.
Key Milestones in Honda’s EPS Adoption
Below is a concise timeline of when Honda began and expanded the use of EPS across its vehicles.
- Circa 1999: Honda begins limited production use of electric power steering on select models in certain markets.
- Early 2000s (2000–2005): EPS expands to more models as the technology matures and hydraulic systems are phased out in favor of electric assistance.
- Mid-to-late 2000s (2005–2010): EPS becomes standard on most passenger cars and SUVs in Honda’s lineup, with notable gains in steering feel and efficiency.
- 2010s–present: EPS is integrated with driver-assistance features and hybrid/electric powertrains, continuing to evolve with vehicle technology.
The transition to EPS has helped Honda improve efficiency, enable advanced driver aids, and reduce maintenance compared with hydraulic systems.
Impact on Specific Honda Models
As EPS spread, a wide range of models transitioned from hydraulic to electric steering. While the exact year varied by region and trim, most mainstream Honda cars and SUVs adopted EPS by the late 2000s to early 2010s.
- Compact cars such as the Civic and Fit (Jazz)
- Sedans and crossovers including the Accord, CR-V, and HR-V
- Minivans and larger SUVs like the Odyssey and related models
The EPS transition allowed Honda to standardize steering feel across its lineup and to enable features such as variable assist, lane-keeping aids, and other software-driven enhancements.
Looking Ahead
Honda continues refining EPS as part of its broader electrification and safety strategy, ensuring steering systems work in harmony with autonomous and assistive technologies while maintaining reliability and driver satisfaction.
Summary: Honda began using electric power steering in the late 1990s, with initial production adoption around 1999. Over the following years, EPS became increasingly widespread across the lineup, and today it remains a standard feature that supports efficiency and modern driver-assistance capabilities.
