2018-2020 Honda Fit Electric Power Steering (EPS) Motor: Failure Symptoms & Replacement

Symptoms of a Failing EPS Motor

Failure of the EPS motor in a 2018-2020 Honda Fit can be sudden and concerning. Because the system is entirely electronic, symptoms are often related to warning lights and changes in steering feel rather than fluid leaks.

1. EPS Warning Light

The most obvious sign of a problem is the illumination of the EPS (Electric Power Steering) warning light on your dashboard. This light typically looks like a steering wheel with an exclamation mark next to it. When this light is on, the car's computer has detected a fault in the system and has likely disabled or restricted power assist as a safety measure. The cause can range from a simple sensor issue to a complete motor failure.

2. Heavy or Stiff Steering

With the EPS system disabled, the steering will become very heavy and difficult to turn, similar to a car with no power steering at all. This is most noticeable at low speeds, such as when parking or navigating a tight driveway. The loss of assist can be intermittent at first, coming and going, but often becomes permanent as the component fails completely.

3. Whining or Grinding Noises

While less common than in hydraulic systems, a failing EPS motor can produce a distinct electrical whining or mechanical grinding sound. This noise would come from the area under the dashboard by the steering column, where the motor is located. Listen for noises that change or occur specifically when you turn the steering wheel.

4. Steering Pulling to One Side

If the torque sensor within the EPS unit fails or loses its calibration, it can cause the system to apply assist when it shouldn't. This can result in the steering wheel feeling like it's pulling to the left or right on its own. This is a serious safety concern that requires immediate attention.

5. Electrical System Issues

The EPS system relies on a stable power supply. A weak or failing battery, a bad alternator, or even a blown fuse can cause the EPS light to come on and steering assist to fail. In some reported cases, a failing EPS system has been linked to other strange electrical behavior, like the dashboard lights blacking out or the vehicle being unable to shift out of park.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

As of late 2023, there are no specific safety recalls for the Electric Power Steering system on the 2018-2020 Honda Fit in the US market. However, Honda has issued recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for other models from the same era, such as the Civic and CR-V, for similar EPS issues. These problems often related to faulty torque sensors within the steering assembly that could cause a sudden loss of assist or even apply steering force in the wrong direction. While the Fit was not included in these specific campaigns, it indicates a pattern of potential issues with the EPS technology used across Honda's lineup during this period.

Buying a Used 2018-2020 Fit EPS Motor

Given the high cost of a new OEM unit, a used EPS motor from a recycled vehicle is a popular and cost-effective option. However, careful purchasing is essential.

• Verify the Part Number: This is the most critical step. There are numerous part numbers for this assembly, and they are not interchangeable. For example, part number 53681-T5R-C12 is for a 2019-2020 Fit LX with a CVT and without Honda Sensing. Part number 53681-T5R-A50 is for a 2015-2016 Fit LX with a manual transmission. Always provide the seller with your vehicle's VIN to confirm an exact match.
• Physical Inspection: When you receive the part, inspect the electrical connectors for any signs of corrosion, bent pins, or damage to the wiring pigtails. Check the motor housing for any cracks or signs of heavy impact that could indicate it came from a severe collision.
• Mileage Considerations: EPS motor failure is not always tied to high mileage. Failures have been reported on both low and high-mileage vehicles. A lower-mileage part is generally preferable, but verifying the correct part number is more important than mileage alone.
• Why Used OEM is a Good Choice: For this specific part, new aftermarket options are not widely available from major retailers. A used OEM unit guarantees the same fit, quality, and electronic behavior as the original part that came with your car, which is crucial for a component that requires precise electronic calibration.

Programming and Calibration Requirements

This is not a plug-and-play part. After the new or used EPS motor is installed, it must be calibrated to the vehicle. The system's torque sensor needs to learn the neutral or 'zero point' of the steering. Without this procedure, the EPS warning light will likely stay on, the steering may not work correctly, or it could pull to one side.

This calibration is reliably performed using a professional-grade scan tool, like the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS). While some forum users have described a manual relearn procedure involving jumping pins on the OBD-II port and turning the wheel in a specific sequence, this method can be finicky and may not work on all models. Plan on having the vehicle taken to a dealer or a well-equipped independent shop for calibration after installation.

Cost Comparison

The cost to replace a Honda Fit EPS motor varies significantly depending on the source of the part and who performs the labor.

Note: Labor costs are estimates and can vary by location. The total repair cost using a new OEM part at a dealership can approach $1,500 or more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)