How to Check Power Steering Fluid on a 2010 Honda Accord

Park on level ground, warm the engine to normal operating temperature, turn it off, then open the hood and check that the fluid in the translucent power steering reservoir is between the upper and lower (MIN/MAX) lines; top up only with Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid (PSF). This quick check helps prevent pump whining, hard steering, and premature wear, and applies to all 2010 Accord trims, which use a hydraulic power steering system.

Where to find the reservoir

The power steering fluid reservoir is a small, translucent plastic container with a black cap labeled “Power Steering.” On most 2010 Accord 4‑cylinder models it’s near the passenger-side strut tower toward the rear of the engine bay; on V6 models it’s typically toward the front passenger side. The translucent body lets you see the fluid level against the molded marks.

What you’ll need

You only need a few simple items to check and, if necessary, top up the power steering fluid safely and cleanly.

• Clean rag or paper towels
• Flashlight (to clearly see the level and marks)
• Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid (PSF-S), for topping up if needed
• Small-tip funnel (optional, helps avoid spills)

Having these on hand ensures you can read the level accurately and add the correct fluid without contaminating the system.

Step-by-step: Checking the level

Follow these steps to get an accurate reading and protect the system from overfilling or contamination.

1. Park on level ground and set the parking brake. Drive the car for a few minutes to warm it up to normal operating temperature, then shut the engine off.
2. Open the hood and secure it. Wipe the outside of the reservoir so you can clearly see the marks.
3. Locate the MIN/MAX (or LOWER/UPPER) lines on the side of the reservoir. The fluid should sit between these lines with the engine off at normal operating temperature.
4. If the level is below the lower mark, inspect around the pump, hoses, and reservoir for signs of leaks. If none are obvious, remove the cap and add a small amount of Honda PSF, using a clean funnel if needed.
5. Add fluid in small increments to bring the level close to the upper mark—do not overfill.
6. Start the engine and slowly turn the steering wheel from lock to lock 2–3 times to purge any air. Turn the engine off and recheck the level; top up slightly if required.
7. Reinstall the cap snugly and wipe any spills to prevent dirt buildup.

This process ensures an accurate reading and prevents aeration. Always check with the engine off and on level ground; warm readings are most reliable.

How to read the marks and assess fluid condition

The reservoir has marks to guide your reading; fluid temperature affects the level, and the fluid’s appearance tells you about its health.

• Level: At normal operating temperature with the engine off, the fluid should be between the lower and upper marks. If checking cold, it may sit closer to the lower mark and still be acceptable.
• Color/clarity: Healthy Honda PSF is clear to light amber. Dark brown or black fluid, or a burnt smell, suggests it’s degraded and should be replaced.
• Foam or milkiness: Bubbles or milky fluid indicates air or moisture intrusion—often due to a loose connection or a hardened pump inlet O‑ring letting air in.

If the fluid is discolored or foamy, correcting the cause (not just topping up) will protect the pump and steering rack.

If the level is low: common causes to check

A recurring low level typically means a leak. Addressing the source prevents damage and repeated top-ups.

• Power steering pump inlet O‑ring: A known Honda wear item that hardens over time; symptoms include cold-start whining and aerated fluid.
• High-pressure hose: Look for wetness at the metal-rubber crimped sections.
• Return hose and clamps: Check for seeping around clamps and at the reservoir nipples.
• Rack-and-pinion seals: Look for fluid around the tie-rod boots.
• Reservoir or cap: Inspect for hairline cracks or a damaged cap seal.

Fixing leaks promptly prevents pump starvation and avoids expensive steering rack repairs.

What not to do

A few mistakes can cause immediate or long-term damage to the system.

• Do not use ATF or “universal” power steering fluid—use only Genuine Honda PSF.
• Do not overfill; excess fluid can expand and overflow onto belts and components.
• Do not check with the engine running; readings will be inaccurate and fluid can splash.
• Do not ignore whining, growling, or stiff steering—these are early warning signs.

Sticking to Honda-spec fluid and proper procedures preserves pump and rack longevity.

Quick FAQs

Does a 2010 Accord use electric power steering? No—2010 Accords use a belt-driven hydraulic pump and Honda PSF.

Is there a scheduled replacement interval for power steering fluid? Honda does not list a routine interval; inspect condition periodically and replace if it’s dark, burnt, or contaminated.

How much fluid does the system take? A full drain-and-fill is roughly around 1 quart (about 1 liter), though top-ups usually require only small amounts. Always add gradually and recheck.

Summary

To check the 2010 Honda Accord’s power steering fluid, warm the car, shut it off, and verify the level is between the reservoir’s marks; top up only with Genuine Honda PSF as needed. Healthy fluid is clear to light amber; low, foamy, or dark fluid points to leaks or degradation—often the pump inlet O‑ring or hoses. Proper checks and the right fluid help keep steering quiet, light, and reliable.

What power steering fluid for 2010 Honda Accord?

For your 2010 Honda Accord, the recommended power steering fluid is Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid (part number 08206-9002). While other fluids for Asian vehicles may be used, it is best to use the genuine Honda product to ensure compatibility with the specific elastomers (seals and hoses) in the Honda power steering system and to avoid potential damage or reduced component lifespan.
 
Why use genuine Honda power steering fluid?

• Compatibility: Honda power steering systems use a unique blend of additives designed to work with the specific seals and hoses in their power steering racks. 
• System Integrity: Using non-Honda fluid can lead to deterioration of these components and reduce the overall life of the power steering system. 
• Performance: The genuine fluid ensures efficient, noise-free operation and protects the system from wear and corrosion. 

What to do if you don’t know what’s in the system:
If you’re just topping off the fluid and aren’t sure what is currently in the system, the safest option is to get the power steering fluid directly from a Honda dealer.

How to check power steering fluid on a Honda Accord 2010?

And the area around the cap. This will help prevent any foreign matter from entering ing the reservoir.

Do you check power steering fluid with the engine on or off on a Honda?

Make sure the vehicle isn’t running at the time you’re opening the cap of the reservoir. The power steering fluid can get hot, and keeping the vehicle turned off whilst you work is the safest way of avoiding accidents.

How do you check the power steering fluid on a Honda Accord?

If you need to know what kind of fluid to add check your service manual. And go from there.