It’s not uncommon to see power steering fluid that has been overfilled. Many times, it is simply due to a mechanic not paying attention while they are servicing the vehicle. Other times, it could be due to a sudden change in temperature causing the fluid to expand. Whatever the cause, an overfilled power steering fluid reservoir is something that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
What is power steering fluid?
Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps to power the steering system in a vehicle. When the fluid level gets too low, it can cause the steering to feel heavy or stiff. If the level gets too high, it can cause the steering to feel light or spongy. Either way, it’s important to keep an eye on the fluid level and top it up when necessary.
If you find that your power steering fluid is overfilled, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem. First, check for any leaks in the system. If there are none, then you can slowly bleed off some of the excess fluid until the level is where it should be.
It’s important to keep an eye on your power steering fluid level and top it up when necessary. If you find that it’s overfilled, you can bleed off some of the excess until it’s at the correct level.
What are the symptoms of overfilled power steering fluid?
If your power steering fluid is overfilled, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
1. The power steering system makes strange noises.
2. The power steering system is less responsive than usual.
3. The power steering system seems to be working harder than usual.
4. You see leaks coming from the power steering system.
How to check power steering fluid levels
If your power steering fluid is low, it’s probably because you have a leak. To check your power steering fluid levels, first find the power steering reservoir. It’s usually located near the engine, and it has a clearly marked dipstick. Once you’ve found the reservoir, remove the cap and check the fluid level. If it’s below the minimum line, you’ll need to add more fluid.
If your power steering fluid is overfilled, on the other hand, you’ll need to remove some of the excess fluid. To do this, locate the bleed valve on the power steering pump. It’s usually located near the top of the pump, and it will have a small hose attached to it. Place a catch basin below the valve, then open the valve and allow the excess fluid to drain out. Once the fluid level has dropped to the correct level, close the valve and replace the cap on the reservoir.
How to bleed the power steering system
If your power steering fluid is overfilled, you will need to bleed the system to get rid of the excess fluid. You can do this by yourself, but it’s best to have someone help you.
1. Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Raise the front end of the car with a jack and support it on jack stands.
3. Locate the power steering reservoir and remove the cap.
4. Find the bleeder screw on the power steering pump and loosen it with a wrench.
5. Have your helper start the engine and turn the steering wheel back and forth while you hold a catch basin under the bleeder screw. Fluid will come out of the bleeder screw, so make sure to catch it all in the basin.
6. Once all of the fluid has been expelled from the system, tighten the bleeder screw and put the reservoir cap back on.
7. Lower the car from the jack stands and test drive it to make sure that the power steering is working properly.
How to fix a leaking power steering system
If your power steering fluid is leaking, it’s important to take care of the problem as soon as possible. If left unchecked, a leaking power steering system can cause serious damage to your car.
Fortunately, fixing a leaking power steering system is relatively easy. In most cases, you’ll just need to replace the power steering fluid reservoir cap. However, if the leak is coming from the power steering pump, you’ll need to replace the pump itself.
No matter what’s causing your power steering fluid to leak, it’s important to get it fixed ASAP. Otherwise, you could be looking at some serious repair bills down the road.
Conclusion
If your power steering fluid is overfilled, there are a few steps you can take to fix the problem. Firstly, check your owner’s manual to see where the power steering fluid reservoir is located. Once you’ve found it, remove the cap and use a turkey baster or syringe to suction out some of the fluid. Replace the cap and start your car; if the steering feels better, you’re all set. If not, repeat the process until the steering feels normal again.