There are a few things you can check on your car to make sure everything is firing on all cylinders. One of those things is checking your power steering fluid. Here’s a guide on how to do it.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a fluid that is used in power steering systems. It helps to provide the necessary lubrication to the system, and helps to keep the system functioning properly.
How to Check Your Power Steering Fluid
If your car doesn’t seem to be pulling as hard as it once did, or if the steering feels stiff, your power steering fluid might need to be replaced. Here’s how to check and replace your power steering fluid:
1. Park your car in a level spot.
2. Turn the car off and remove the key from the ignition.
3. Open the hood and locate the reservoir that holds the power steering fluid. It will likely be located on the left side of the engine, just in front of the transmission. If you have a automatic transmission, there may also be a filter located above or near the reservoir. If you have a manual transmission, there may not be a reservoir, but there will most likely be a filter nearby.
4. Remove the cover on top of the reservoir and pour out any old power steering fluid. Use a funnel if necessary. You should replace all of the power steering fluid at once, regardless of how much is left in the tank.
5. Replace the cover and reattach it to the reservoir with screws that come provided. Make sure that the screws are tight enough so that no air can enter
When to Change Your Power Steering Fluid
If you’re like most drivers, you probably think you don’t need to change your power steering fluid until it starts making noise or your steering becomes unresponsive. But in fact, you should always check your power steering fluid level and replace it if it’s low or if the fluid has been sitting in the system for a long time. Here are five reasons why you should do this:
1. Low power steering fluid can cause your steering to feel clunky and heavy, which can make driving difficult.
2. Over time, old power steering fluid can break down and form acids that can damage your system components.
3. A low power steering fluid level can also cause leaks, which will contaminate your system with dirt, dust, and other debris. This not only affects the performance of your car, but also increases the risk of getting car theft.
4. When power steering fluid is contaminated with oil or grease, it can become thick and difficult to pour. This will slow down the flow of oil through the system, which can lead to decreased performance and even a possible breakdown.
5. Finally, failing to replace power steering fluid can also result in permanent damage the cap on the reservoir.
7. Drive your car back to normal.
If you have a manual transmission, pull out the gear selector lever to “1” (first), close the selector lever and turn off the car’s ignition. Push down on one side of the wheel with a wrench or pliers so that it hangs over a hole in the floorboard. Touching or getting any oil on your hands will contaminate it with fingerprints! (You can also use this technique to change a tire.)
Use a funnel to fill up the reservoir to the top with power steering fluid (or bring a container of fresh fluid). Make sure there is at least 3 inches of fluid above the top of the wheel hub! Replace the cap on the reservoir.
Drive your car back to normal.
What to Do if You Change Your Power Steering Fluid and It’s Still Not Working
If your car has power steering, it uses fluid to help the wheel turn. When the fluid goes bad, the car won’t turn as easily. Here’s how to check your power steering fluid and fix any problems if they occur:
1. Park your car in a safe place.
2. Turn off all of the car’s engines.
3. Open the hood and remove the cap on the reservoir that holds the power steering fluid. Do not pour any of the fluid out!
4. If you have an automatic transmission, pull out the gear selector lever to “P” (park). Close the selector lever and turn off the car’s ignition.
5. Push down on one side of the wheel with a wrench or pliers so that it hangs over a hole in the floorboard. Touching or getting any oil on your hands will contaminate it with fingerprints! (You can also use this technique to change a tire.)
6. Use a funnel to fill up the reservoir to the top with power steering fluid (or bring a container of fresh fluid). Make sure there is at least 3 inches of fluid above the top of the wheel hub!
Conclusion
If you’ve been noticing a loss of power when turning your steering wheel, it might be time to check your power steering fluid level. By checking your fluid level, you can diagnose and fix the problem before it becomes more serious.