If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you put brake fluid in your power steering system, you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and one that can be easily answered with a little bit of research. In this article, we’ll explore what happens if you put brake fluid in your power steering system, and whether or not it’s something you should do.
What is power steering fluid?
Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps transfer power from the steering wheel to the wheels of a vehicle. When you turn the steering wheel, the power steering pump pushes fluid through a series of hoses and into the steering gear. The fluid then helps move the steering gear, which turns the wheels.
If you were to put brake fluid in your power steering system, it would likely damage or destroy the power steering pump. Brake fluid is much thicker than power steering fluid and is not designed to be used in a power steering system. The thick brake fluid would quickly clog up the small passages in the power steering pump, causing it to fail. Additionally, brake fluid is corrosive and would damage the seals in the power steering system.
What is brake fluid?
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that is used in brake systems to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. It is also used in power steering systems to help turn the wheels. If you were to put brake fluid into your power steering system, it would likely damage or destroy the pump.
What happens if you put brake fluid in power steering?
If you put brake fluid in your power steering, it will eventually destroy the pump. The brake fluid will eat away at the pump’s seals, and if it gets into the system, it will mix with the hydraulic fluid and cause corrosion. This will lead to decreased performance and eventually failure of the pump.
How to fix it
If you’ve accidentally put brake fluid in your power steering, don’t panic. There are a few simple steps you can take to fix the problem and get your car back on the road.
First, check the level of fluid in your power steering reservoir. If it’s low, top it off with the correct fluid. Next, bleed the power steering system by opening the bleeder valve and allowing the old fluid to drain out. Once the system is bled, refill it with fresh fluid and close the bleeder valve.
If your car is still not steering correctly, take it to a mechanic for further diagnosis. In some cases, putting brake fluid in power steering can cause damage to the system that will require repairs.
Conclusion
If you put brake fluid in your power steering system, it will damage the seals and hoses. This can lead to leaks and loss of hydraulic pressure, making it difficult to steer your vehicle. In extreme cases, the brakes may not work at all. It’s important to be careful when working with fluids like brake fluid, and always consult your car’s owner’s manual before adding any new fluids.