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Honda Accord: Why is My Power Steering Reservoir Leaking Foam?

Does your car sound like a moaning dog when making multiple turns? Continue reading to find out the cause and how to repair the issue on your Honda Accord.

By Piyush Kayastha - April 2, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Civic/Del Sol (1992-2000).

Your car's power steering system is a complicated one. It involves a hydraulic system and lines to pump it with proper power steering fluid. It allows the driver the ability to smoothly turn lock-to-lock. When this system requires repairs or fails, there are a few signs to indicate something might be wrong. Typically, a leak will be seen under the car near the front left wheel. Other signs may include a "moaning" sound when turning. You may also notice "sweaty" or "greasy" reflections on the power steering hoses and around the power steering pump (where it connects to the steering rack). Another sign will be around the power steering reservoir where you may also notice foaming. Two parts of the system are the typical culprits: it can be from the filter within the reservoir, or the front input shaft seal.

Materials Needed

  • Vice grips/pliers
  • Drain pan
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • Adjustable wrenches

Step 1 – Remove and clean reservoir

There is a built-in filter within the reservoir that often gets clogged. This will cause the fluid to backup, and air to become trapped. The result is a foaming reservoir cap, and the system being slightly deprived of enough fluid.

  • Clean the reservoir area completely.
  • Remove reservoir, and clamp the connecting hose with the vice grips to avoid fluid spillage.
  • Clean the reservoir thoroughly, and blow compressed air through the system several times.
  • Re-install the reservoir, and refill fluid to the optimum level.
  • Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock, and take your car on a short drive.
  • Observe the system for leaks or moaning.
  • Figure 1. Foaming P/S reservoir.
  • Figure 2. Cap removed.

Pro Tips

  • Kerosene is a good agent to clean the screen on the filter thoroughly.
  • If there is a consistent leak around the reservoir, it could be a small crack. This will require a replacement of the reservoir itself.

If the leak persists, move on to Step 2.

Step 2 – Replace front input shaft seal

Another common area for the leak is the front input shaft seal on the power steering pump (on the side of the power steering pulley).

  • Remove the drive belt.
  • Remove the power steering pulley bolt.
  • Remove the old seal.
  • Clean the area thoroughly.
  • Install the new seal.
  • Re-install the pulley bolt and belt.
  • Figure 3. P/S belt.
  • Figure 4. P/S pump seal.

If the leak persists after this step, it may be necessary to replace the pump itself.

Pro Tip

It is worth checking all the hoses to ensure they don't have any rips or need replacement.

Featured Video: Why is My Accord's Power Steering Reservoir Leaking Foam?

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