Power steering failure / loss of assist

Steps

1. Secure the vehicle Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. Loosen the front‑wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the car with a jack, and support it on jack stands. Remove the front wheels to gain access to the power‑steering pump and rack.
2. Check power‑steering fluid level and condition Locate the power‑steering fluid reservoir (near the engine, usually a translucent bottle with a cap marked “Power Steering”). Wipe the cap clean, remove it, and inspect the fluid on the dipstick. The level should be between “MIN” and “MAX”. Note color and any metal particles; fluid should be clear amber. If low or dirty, proceed to a fluid change.
3. Drain and replace power‑steering fluid (if needed) Place a drain pan beneath the pump inlet hose. Remove the reservoir cap and use a hand‑pump or siphon to extract the fluid into the pan. Dispose of the old fluid properly. Re‑install the cap, then fill the reservoir with fresh Honda/ Dexron‑III fluid to the “MAX” mark.
4. Inspect hoses, connections, and wiring Visually examine all power‑steering hoses for cracks, swelling, or leaks. Check the metal fittings for corrosion or loose clamps. Inspect the electrical connector to the pump (if equipped) for corrosion or damaged pins. Repair or replace any damaged hose or connector before proceeding.
5. Assess the power‑steering pump With the engine off, listen for any whining or grinding from the pump housing. Manually turn the pump pulley; it should rotate smoothly with minimal play. Look for fluid seeping from the pump housing or mounting bolts. If any of these symptoms are present, the pump is likely the culprit.
6. Remove the power‑steering pump 1. Disconnect the electrical connector (if present). 2. Place a drain pan under the pump inlet. 3. Using line wrenches, loosen and disconnect the high‑pressure and return hoses from the pump. 4. Remove the pump mounting bolts (typically 10 mm). 5. Carefully lift the pump out of the engine bay.
7. Install the new power‑steering pump 1. Position the new pump in the mounting location. 2. Install the mounting bolts and torque them to the specification in the service manual (usually ~25 Nm). If the exact torque is unknown, tighten to a snug fit and verify against the manual. 3. Re‑connect the high‑pressure and return hoses, tightening the fittings with a line wrench to prevent leaks. 4. Re‑connect the electrical connector.
8. Bleed the power‑steering system 1. With the engine off, turn the steering wheel from lock‑to‑lock several times to push air out of the lines. 2. Re‑install the reservoir cap. 3. Start the engine and let it idle. 4. Turn the wheel fully left and right several times while watching the fluid level; add fluid as needed to keep it at the “MAX” mark. 5. Observe for any leaks and ensure the pump makes a steady whine without groaning.
9. Re‑install wheels and lower the vehicle Place the front wheels back on, hand‑tighten the lug nuts, lower the car from the jack stands, and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specification (usually 100 Nm).
10. Test drive and verify repair Drive the vehicle at low speed, turning the wheel left and right. Steering should feel light and free of jerky motions. Listen for any abnormal noises. Re‑check fluid level after the test drive and top off if necessary.

Parts

• Power steering fluid — Honda Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron‑III) – 0W‑20 API SN equivalent ×1 L (approx.)
• Power steering pump — OEM replacement pump for 2006 Acura MDX (check fits 3.5 L V6) ×1
• Power steering hose kit (optional) — OEM hose kit for 2006 MDX power‑steering system ×1

Tools

• Jack and jack stands
• Wheel lug wrench
• Socket set (including 10 mm and 12 mm)
• Torque wrench
• Line wrench set (flare‑nut)
• Drain pan
• Funnel
• Clean rags
• Pry bar (optional)
• Battery terminal puller (optional)

Sources

• mcgrathacuralibertyville.com
• theweeklydriver.com
• carbuzz.com
• fs1inc.com
• youtube.com
• carparts.com