Iveco Daily Power Steering Pump — How It Works
The power steering pump (hydraulic power steering) on the Iveco Daily is a vane pump driven by the engine's auxiliary belt. It generates the hydraulic pressure needed to assist the steering, making driving the Daily — a commercial vehicle that can weigh up to 7 tonnes — light and precise.
All Dailys from 1990 are fitted with a hydraulic power steering system. More recent versions (from 2019) may have electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS), where the pump is driven by an electric motor instead of the belt.
Common Power Steering Pump Problems
Stiff or Heavy Steering
If the steering becomes heavy, especially at low speeds or when cold, the pump may be worn or the power steering fluid level may be low. First check the fluid level in the reservoir (with the engine off and the wheels straight).
Whistling or Whining Noise
A whine when you turn the steering wheel indicates cavitation: the pump is drawing in air. Causes: low fluid level, a leaking pipe, worn internal pump seals. If the noise is there even with the steering wheel still, the pump needs replacing.
Oil Leaks
The most common leaks come from: high-pressure hoses (corroded unions), the reservoir (cracked), the pump oil seal (hardened). An ignored leak leads to suddenly stiff steering — dangerous while driving.
Power Steering Warning Light On
On Euro 6 Dailys, the power steering warning light signals a fault in the system. It may be the pump, the pressure sensor or the steering ECU. A diagnosis with an OBD tool is required.
Iveco Daily Power Steering Fluid
The Iveco Daily uses ATF Dexron III hydraulic fluid or equivalent (red/green) for the power steering circuit. Do not use engine oil or brake fluid.
- Circuit capacity: approx. 1,2 litres
- Level check: every 20.000 km or if the steering becomes heavy
- Complete replacement: every 60.000 km or 4 years
How to Replace the Power Steering Pump
- Drain the system (suck the fluid out of the reservoir)
- Remove the auxiliary belt (slacken the tensioner)
- Disconnect the high/low pressure hoses from the pump
- Undo the pump mounting bolts (typically 3 M10 bolts)
- Fit the new pump with new seals
- Reconnect the hoses and refit the belt
- Top up with ATF fluid and bleed the air by turning the steering from lock to lock 10-15 times
Power Steering Parts for Iveco Daily
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a power steering pump for the Iveco Daily cost?
A power steering pump costs 150-350€ depending on whether it is aftermarket or genuine. Labour for the replacement is around 100-200€. Approximate total: 250-550€.
Can I drive my Daily without power steering?
Technically yes, but the steering becomes very heavy, especially at low speeds and when manoeuvring. Driving without working power steering is tiring and potentially dangerous in an emergency.
How often should the power steering fluid be changed?
Iveco recommends replacing it every 60.000 km or 4 years. The level should be checked every 20.000 km. Always use ATF Dexron III fluid or equivalent.
