Once the components get damaged due to the lack of power steering fluid, it becomes a costly fix. If the level of the power steering fluid goes down or leaks out completely, then it makes the vehicle difficult to turn. Replacing these parts is quite costly and it is better to have them serviced at regular intervals. If the power steering fluid is neglected, the power steering pump and rack / pinion mechanisms could get damaged. Servicing is important to ensure that the power steering system components don’t wear out and that their life is prolonged. If turning the steering wheel is proving to be hard or if there is a visible leak of power steering fluid from the engine bay, then it is best to have the power steering system checked and have the fluid replaced.Ī service of the power steering fluid includes draining out the old fluid from the system and pouring in new power steering fluid. If dirt, grease or grime is present in the power steering fluid then the system should be flushed and replaced with fresh fluid.Īnother indication for checking the system is if you hear a moaning or creaking noise from the power steering system. If the liquid looks too dark in colour, then it’s time for a replacement. There are also certain warning signs that can tell you when to replace the power steering fluid. Usually, power steering fluid must be changed at least every 5 years or at 50,000 kms. Following the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) guidelines is one of the surest ways of determining when to change the power steering fluid. The replacement of a power steering fluid depends on the type of fluid that is used and the amount of fluid present in the system. Each automaker will mention these standards in their relative power steering systems.Īlso Read: Difference Between Petrol Engine and Diesel Engine Explained When is the right time to change your power steering fluid? Power steering fluid specifications are created by standardisation organisations such as ISO.Ĭertain vehicles require power steering fluids to meet these specifications in order to function normally. If these specification standards are met, then the power steering fluid is safe to use in a vehicle’s power steering system. Power steering fluid specifications are required to determine the viscosity, additives and detergents of the fluid. Some may ask, is automatic transmission fluid and power steering fluid the same? Although both fluids are used for hydraulics, ATF has certain detergents and agents to remove dirt, grease and grime from the automatic transmission system.Īlso Read: The Ultimate Guide To Engine Bay Detailing What are the power steering fluid standards? They can be used in some power steering applications that use ATF. New vehicles often use a synthetic based power steering fluid.Ī different kind of power steering fluid is a mineral oil-based liquid. These synthetic power steering fluids are specifically engineered for a particular vehicle or power steering system. Dexron and Mercon are some types of automatic transmission fluids.Ī non-oil-based fluid created in a lab called synthetic power steering fluid can also be used in some power steering systems. ATF can also be used in some power steering systems. What are the different types of steering fluid?Īutomatic transmission makes use of automatic transmission fluid (ATF). The container holding the power steering fluid is white or yellow with a black cap with the words, power steering or steering fluid on top. It is usually located on the passenger side, although it could also be located on the driver side. The power steering fluid reservoir can be found under the hood in the engine bay. If it is dark brown and foamy, it probably requires replacement.Īlso Read: Top 5 Car Maintenance Fluids Essential For Your Car Where is the power steering fluid? Power steering fluid looks like a red, pink or amber liquid. It prevents foaming and reduces corrosion in the power steering gears and pumps, which keeps the vehicle running smoothly. Hydraulic fluid also acts as a lubricant for the moving parts in the power steering system. The fluid is used to decrease the amount of effort that is used to turn the wheels. Power steering fluid is the hydraulic medium that is used to make a hydraulic link between the steering system and the front wheels.
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