What’s in a name? Motor Driven Power Steering?

Power steering.

For reasons known only to Kia, they now refer to Electric Power Steering as Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS). We had to do some extensive searching but can now say with complete confidence that the two are exactly the same.

This follows from what is our perspective is a long list of automotive functions that auto manufacturers manage to mangle by assigning their own name to the system. Using just a single example, our Stability Control page lists no less than 15 different names for the same system!

For us, it required the search to confirm there was nothing special going on with the power steering drive system, and adjustment to the electric power steering indicators page, and the addition of a new abbreviation on our acronyms and abbreviations page.

Fortunately, Kia uses the same images for the warning lights it has used in the past.

For drivers out there, its another name to be learned and possibly be confused by for a system that didn’t need a new name at all.

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The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business, nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember — only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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