You might not think much about your car’s power steering fluid. But if you don’t change it regularly, it can cause some big problems. Here’s everything you need to know about power steering fluid, why you need to change it, and how to do it yourself.
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. The fluid helps to make turning the wheel easier and provides resistance so that the driver does not oversteer. Over time, power steering fluid can become dirty and may need to be changed.
Do you need to change your power steering fluid?
If your car is steering harder than usual, it could be time to change your power steering fluid. Power steering fluid helps your car to turn easily, so if it’s getting harder to turn the wheel, it’s a sign that the fluid is low or dirty.
To check your power steering fluid levels, simply open the hood and look for the power steering reservoir. The reservoir is usually clearly marked, and has a max fill line that you can use as a guide. If the fluid level is below the max line, add more power steering fluid until it reaches the line.
If you suspect that your power steering fluid is dirty, you can have it tested at a local auto parts store or service center. If the test shows that the fluid is dirty, you’ll need to flush out the system and replace the fluid with freshfluid.
When should you change your power steering fluid?
The power steering fluid in your vehicle should be changed at least every two years, or as specified in your owner’s manual. Some vehicles may need the fluid changed more frequently, so it’s important to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
If you notice that your power steering system is making noise, leaking fluid, or if the steering feels stiff, it’s a good idea to have the system checked by a professional mechanic. They can determine if the fluid needs to be changed and can make any necessary repairs.
How to change your power steering fluid
If you’ve noticed that your steering feels heavier than usual or you’re hearing strange noises coming from your power steering system, it might be time to change your power steering fluid. Luckily, this is a relatively easy task that you can do at home with the right supplies.
To start, you’ll need to purchase power steering fluid specifically for your car. Once you have the correct fluid, open your hood and locate the power steering reservoir. It’s usually located near the front of the engine bay on the driver’s side.
With the reservoir in sight, use a clean funnel to pour the new fluid in until it reaches the “full” line. If your car has an older power steering system, you may need to bleed the lines of air before adding new fluid. To do this, simply turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times with the engine off until you see fluid dripping from the bleeder valve.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully changed your power steering fluid and should notice an improvement in how your car steers.
Conclusion
If your car is starting to make strange noises when you turn the steering wheel, it might be time to change your power steering fluid. This job is usually pretty easy to do yourself, and it’s a lot cheaper than taking your car to a mechanic. Plus, changing your power steering fluid regularly can help extend the life of your car’s power steering system. So if you’re not sure whether or not you need to change your power steering fluid, err on the side of caution and do it sooner rather than later.