What Is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering is generally a hydraulic system similar to brakes, making it easier to control your vehicle. The system is lubricated with fluid which should be replaced occasionally. This is also a great moment to examine for worn or leaky hoses and fix them if required. Read our no-cost guide here for more details on when you should perform regular maintenance for your car and how to repair yourself.
The majority of new vehicles utilize electricity-powered power steering instead. It uses an electric motor instead of hydraulics and doesn’t require fluid changes.
Is it safe to drive using an Old Power Control Fluid?
The fluid in your power steering is optional to be replaced frequently. As time passes, leaks could form within the steering system, allowing the liquid to escape and for that which is left to become dirty. This puts additional strain and wear on your steering system and could cause the pump’s or other parts’ failure.
Changing your power steering fluid is simple and cheap and provides additional insurance against other issues. Also, it allows you to look for leaks and replace the required components. If you’re uncomfortable working on this alone, going to a repair shop isn’t expensive either.
When to Change Power Steering Fluid
Generally speaking, it is recommended that you flush your fluid for power steering every two years or 50,000 miles, whichever is first. Check your manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule or free FIXD app to find out what is recommended for your particular make and model.
What Are Common Symptoms Indicating You Need a Power Steering Flush?
Fluid can be black or brown.
The pump produces A groaning sound for power steering, especially when you turn the steering wheel.
The steering wheel is becoming more challenging to ride.
Keep in Mind
Different vehicles utilize different types of fluid for power steering. Some cars even employ an automatic transmission fluid for the power steering system. Make sure you are using the correct fluid according to the specifications of the vehicle you are driving.
Always adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule, and complete this maintenance according to your model and make instructions.
Take out from the reservoir of the power steering
Find your pool of power steering fluid. It is usually connected to the pump. Unlock the cap and then employ a turkey baster to take as much liquid as possible. It’s like an eyedropper that is huge.
Disconnect your return line and drain the system
Find your power steering fluid return line. Two lines are beneath the car, which connects to the pump that powers the power steering. This line returns to one with clamps, which you can take off with pliers.
Place your drain pan underneath the line that returns to it. Unclip the clamp and remove the hose. Fluid will leak out of both ends and create a mess. The more liquid you have drained out of the reservoir during Step 2 of the procedure, the less you’ll have to drain in this step.
While the hose is disconnected, turn the steering wheel towards the left and right a few times. This will force more old fluid from the system. Continue doing this until the liquid stops flowing out.
Clean the system with new fluid
If the return line hose remains connected, The reservoir should be filled about halfway with fresh fluid.
Start the engine and continue to push this fluid through the steering system. Then, drain it to the bottom by flushing any remnants or dirt of filthy fluid from the system. Turn the steering wheel left and correct it numerous times until you get all the steering fluid that powers your car.
The reservoir will be drained as you’re doing this. Please watch over it, and ensure that you fill-up the pool to ensure it doesn’t get dry.
If the liquid that comes out is identical to the color of the liquid you’re pouring into, The system is good to go. Shut off your engine.
Make sure you reconnect the return line
Return the hose to its fitting. With pliers, fix the clamp on the hose so it will not come loose.
Start by topping off the fluid
The power steering reservoir must be filled until it reaches its “full” mark. Install the cap and then start the engine for approximately 10 minutes. Turn off the engine, remove the lid, then fill the reservoir until it reaches its “full” mark.
Look for leaks
The engine should be started and allowed to run while looking under the car to check whether fluid leaks from any point. Pay attention to where you shut off the hose to flush the system. However, don’t confuse the liquid that spilled when the hose was disconnected for a new leak.
Once more, rotate the left and right steering wheels to circulate fresh fluid. Continue checking and topping off the fluid level inside the reservoir until it’s filled.
Lower the car and go for the car for a test drive
Suppose you didn’t remove the drain pan that is under the car. Take the jack stands off and then place the car on the floor. This time, the steering wheel should be turned left and right to ensure the vehicle operates smoothly, regardless of the tires being in the ground. If everything is in order, then take a test drive to feel the way it feels in the open. If everything is working well, then congratulations! Accomplished.
If the steering does not feel right, pop the hood and look at the fluid level in the power steering. You may have experienced air bubbles within the system that could have popped out while driving. If your fluid is filled and you’re experiencing problems, take your vehicle to be looked at by a professional to make more information.
Claim Your Custom Maintenance Schedule
Download your FIXD Sensor and apply today to create a customized maintenance schedule based on the make, model, and mileage. Take advantage of all critical maintenance by setting up automatic maintenance alerts! Please find out more about it at fixd.com.