Where is the power steering pump on a Toyota Highlander?
In most gasoline Highlanders that use a hydraulic power steering system, the pump is belt-driven and mounted on the front of the engine on the passenger side, with a reservoir and high-pressure hose. Newer Highlanders and all hybrids typically use electric power steering, which means there is no hydraulic pump to locate.
This article explains how to identify which system your Highlander uses, where to look under the hood, and what to expect if you need service or a refill. It covers typical locations, how to tell hydraulic from electric steering, and how to verify for your exact model and year.
Hydraulic power steering: locating the pump
For models that still rely on hydraulic power steering, the pump is driven by the serpentine belt and sits on the front of the engine, typically toward the passenger side. Look for a round pump with a pulley and hoses that connect to the steering rack, plus a reservoir with a cap usually labeled Power Steering Fluid.
Note that exact mounting can vary by engine option and year, but the layout remains consistent: a belt-driven pump on the front of the engine with hoses and a reservoir accessible under the hood.
- Location: front of the engine, on the passenger (right) side when facing the engine from the front
- Drive: serpentine belt powers the pump
- Connections: high-pressure hose to the steering rack and a return/vent hose to the reservoir
In practice, locating the pump requires opening the hood and tracing the serpentine belt path to a small metal or aluminum pump near the belt. If you see a reservoir and a high-pressure line, you’re looking at the hydraulic system.
Electric power steering: the modern Highlander
Many newer Highlanders, including most hybrids, use electric power steering (EPS). In EPS-equipped models, there is no hydraulic pump, and the steering assist is provided by an electric motor integrated with the steering column or the rack. The absence of a power steering reservoir and high-pressure hose is the key clue.
- Location: no hydraulic pump; EPS motor is typically mounted near the steering column or on the steering rack
- Fluid: no hydraulic fluid reservoir or high-pressure hoses in the PS system
- Diagnostics: EPS issues are detected via the vehicle’s computer and may show warning lights or codes
To confirm, check the owner’s manual or inspect for the absence of a hydraulic pump under the hood; a dealer can verify via VIN or service bulletins.
How to verify for your exact model/year
Because Highlander configurations vary by generation and drivetrain, the most reliable method is to consult your owner’s manual, check under the hood for a hydraulic pump and reservoir, or contact a Toyota dealer with your VIN to determine the system type.
Practical tip: if you hear whining from the power steering system or notice difficulty turning the wheel at low speeds, identify whether there is a pump and fluid level (hydraulic) or an EPS warning (EPS).
Summary
In summary, the power steering pump location in a Toyota Highlander depends on the drivetrain: older gas models with hydraulic PS place a belt-driven pump on the front of the engine on the passenger side, with a separate reservoir and high-pressure line. Newer Highlanders, including most hybrids, use electric power steering and do not have a hydraulic pump. Always verify by checking your owner’s manual or VIN to know which system your vehicle uses and where to look for service components.
