When you open your car door and the engine doesn’t start, it’s likely that you’ve run out of power steering fluid. This fluid is important for keeping your car moving in a straight line, so it’s important to keep a few bottles of it around.
Types of Problems That Can Require Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid (PSF) is a type of fluid that is used to help provide power to the steering system on cars and trucks. When the fluid is not working properly, it can result in a number of different problems. Here are some of the most common ones:
1. The car won’t move at all when you try to turn it
If the power steering system isn’t functioning, you may not be able to steer the car at all. This may be caused by a lack of fluid or a clogged pump. In either case, you’ll need to take the car in for repair.
2. The car feels very stiff when you turn it
If the power steering system is not working properly, the car will feel very stiff when you try to turn it. This is because the system won’t be providing any power to the wheels, which will make them difficult to rotate. You’ll likely notice this problem if you’re trying to turn in tight spaces or if you have trouble keeping the car in line while driving.
3. The car starts making strange noises
If the power steering system isn’t working, the car may start making strange noises as a result. This could include
How to Check if You Need Power Steering Fluid
If you are noticing a decrease in power and an increase in jerky movements when driving your car, it is likely time to replace your power steering fluid. Here are four easy ways to tell if you need to add fluid:
1. Check the level. The easy way to check the level is to take a look at the dipstick. If the fluid level has decreased, then it is time for a refill. If the level has remained relatively unchanged, then you may not necessarily need to refill right away. However, if your car has been sitting for a while without being driven, it is always a good idea to top up your fluid levels just to be safe.
2. Drive around some cones. This is one of the most common tests for power steering fluid because it simulates how you would use the wheel in a real-world situation. When you hit a cone, you will feel more resistance as the wheel tries to turn. If the fluid isn’t working properly, you will notice more jerky movements as you hit the cones.
3. Check for leaks. Another way to check for leaks is by checking for vibration and noise coming from under the car. These issues could be indicative of a loose or failing seal
How to Replace Power Steering Fluid
If your car has power steering, you will need to replace the power steering fluid every 3 to 6 months. Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps turn the wheels by making the car more responsive when you turn the wheel.
To replace power steering fluid in a Toyota Camry, first remove the front bumper cover by unscrewing the four screws located near the license plate. Once removed, you will see two hoses connected to each side of the engine. Next, disconnect both hoses and pull them out from under the car. Finally, remove the power steering reservoir by unscrewing the six screws located on top.
To replace power steering fluid in a Ford Focus, first remove the windshield wipers by removing their small screws. Next, unclip and remove the two upper body clips attaching both sides of the wiper motor housing to the car. Carefully pull out both sides of wiper motor housing and discard it. In order to access the power steering reservoir, you will need to flip your Focus over so that all four tires are facing down. Locate two screws on each side of power steering reservoir and unscrew them. Next, remove power steering reservoir by gently pulling it out from under car.