Power steering first appeared in 1951, but it took years for power steering to be standard in all cars. If you have driven without power steering, you know what it takes to muscle the car into the position you want.
Fortunately, we no longer need to deal with this, provided the right power steering fluid types are used and we maintain the vehicle properly.
I cover the types of power steering fluid to provide information on the type of power steering fluid you need, and the steps for replacing it. By keeping this system in good working order, you should also have a smooth, easy ride.
Types of Power Steering Fluid
Typically, the type of power steering fluid is the ATF transmission fluid, synthetic-based, or universal power steering fluid. Each power steering fluid has their own specifics, and it is good to use the type that was made for your car.
We put together a list of a few power steering fluids for details:
#1. ATF Transmission Fluid.
Some cars can use automatic transmission fluid. In them, you may use Dexron, Mercon, or ATF+4, Type F, and other brands of transmission fluid in your power steering.
Most Domestic cars from the ’70s to the mid-’90s would use automatic transmission fluid. For example, Fords, GM, and Chryslers. You can also use automatic transmission fluid in any United States-built Volkswagen models made from 1984 to 1989.
#2. Synthetic-Based Hydraulic Fluid.
Japanese and European vehicles have distinct specifications for power steering fluid. Japanese vehicles in particular utilize a synthetic based fluid that meets ISO 7308 and DIN 51 524T3 specifications, unlike European vehicles such as Volkswagen, Volvo, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi that respect a different specification depending on the year, make, and model of the vehicle.
Furthermore, Subaru, Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Honda have their own guidelines for power steering fluid. The synthetic fluid is designed to flow well even at lower temperatures to improve pump lubrication and prolong the life of the system.
#3. Universal Power Steering Fluid.
Lastly, there is universal power steering fluid that can be used in many modern vehicles. However, some manufacturers suggest adding special additives to this fluid that will also help lubricate the pump and seals or provide corrosion protection.
To determine the proper power steering fluid for a vehicle, look at the power steering reservoir cap. It will also be listed in the car owner’s manual.
When Should I Change Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid lasts longer than most auto fluids because it is used in a clean environment, so few manufacturers have even a recommended service interval for it.
However, you should replace the power steering fluid every 50,000 miles or every five years, whichever comes first.
After that long, the fluid will begin to break down, and there may be some contamination that could damage the steering gear and pump. The corrosion inhibitors will also be depleted and the high heat may cause some oxidation with the fluid.
You can check your owner’s manual for the automaker’s specific interval for changing the power steering fluid, or you can use the recommended intervals above. But in any case, if the fluid is dirty or dark, you have to replace it, no matter how long it has been since you had it changed.
The power steering fluid, like any automotive fluid, is used for lubrication and if it picks up debris and moisture from use, it could lose its lubrication properties. Old power steering fluid can cause the power steering pump to make noise and eventually fail.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid Level?
#1. Locate the Reservoir & Pump.
To check the power steering fluid, you need to know where to look first. Generally speaking, the power steering pump will be located on one of the sides of the engine and will be driven by a belt.
The reservoir is located on top of the pump, however, in a few vehicles, it will be remote and mounted on the inner fender, because of space restraints on the pump itself. Before you proceed: be sure that the vehicle is OFF!
#2. Remove the Cap.
Clean off any debris or dirt from the area before the cap comes off. You wouldn’t want to contaminate the fluid with any dirt while the cap is off.
Gently unscrew the cap to the reservoir. Check the fluid level with the dipstick attached or by using markings on the reservoir, which say FULL or ADD/LOW.
Generally, your vehicle should have the same amount of fluid every couple of years. However, if your vehicle is older or there is a small leak anywhere, some of the fluids may be lower.
#3. Add More Fluid.
If power steering fluid is low, add enough to reach the FULL marking. This fluid expands when hot, so if the system is HOT or COLD, you may have different markings to follow.
Do not overfill the fluid reservoir. If you do, the power steering fluid will begin to leak from the system when it gets hot and runs out of room in the reservoir.
How to Change Power Steering Fluid?
#1. Drain the System.
You should disconnect all hoses from the steering rack or gear and drain fluid into a container, but that may not get everything out.
To get that fluid out you need to reconnect the system, leaving out the return hose, and put a little bit of fresh power steering fluid in. When you start the vehicle, the pump will push the old fluid out through the return hose – remember to collect it in a container.
You’ll also want to flow the steering wheel back and forth with the pump running to make sure the new fluid pushes out the old fluid.
#2. Add New Power Steering Fluid.
Reconnect the return hose and pour in new power steering fluid. Ensure you use the correct fluid for your system.
#3. Bleed the power steering system.
Fill fluid to the FULL mark, start the car, and turn the steering wheel completely left and right many times. If the level drops, add more fluid.
Cost to Replace Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid replacement cost averages between $95-140 when you take your vehicle to the shop. If you want to do it, you can for just the cost of new fluid.
If you don’t change the power steering fluid, you could have a damaged pump. If you do end up needing a new power steering pump, that could cost you a few hundred dollars.
Can I just refill my power steering fluid?
Yes. As long as the power steering system isn’t totally dry, you can just refill the power steering fluid reservoir. However, if there is any leaking, you’ll want to repair it first. You’ll also want to use the proper power steering fluid.
How do you know if you need power steering fluid?
The easiest way to know if your car needs power steering fluid is to look at the reservoir level. The reservoir usually has a min and max mark, and as long as the level is lower than low, it needs filling.
As well, if you hear bad noises coming the power steering pump when you turn the steering wheel, this also indicates the level is low.
What happens if you have low power steering fluid?
If you are low on power steering fluid and run your power steering pump, the air will enter the hydraulic system causing jerky or rough steering.
It can even cause damage to the power steering system! The most common part that can get damaged when low on power steering fluid is the power steering pump.
How do I know what power steering fluid to use?
The best way to know what power steering fluid you need for your car is to check your owner’s manual. You can also search an auto part store site, and enter your license plate number. They will tell you what power steering fluid you need.uid to use.