One of the most common car repairs is checking power steering fluid when the engine is hot. But are you sure you’re doing it right? In this article, we’ll walk you through the proper procedure for checking power steering fluid when the engine is hot.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a transparent, colorless, and viscous liquid that is used to assist the driver in turning the vehicle. The power steering system uses a pump to circulate the fluid through coils within the steering wheel. When the engine is hot, the fluid can become thicker and more viscous, which can reduce its effectiveness. Checking power steering fluid regularly can help ensure proper operation of the system.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
If you have a manual vehicle, checking the power steering fluid is an easy task. Simply remove the cap and pour a small amount of fluid into the reservoir. If the fluid looks cloudy or has chunks in it, it needs to be replaced.
When is it Time to Change Power Steering Fluid?
If your car has an automatic transmission, the power steering fluid may not need to be changed as often as if it had a manual transmission. However, regardless of whether your car has an automatic or manual transmission, it’s still a good idea to check the power steering fluid level and replace it if necessary. Here’s why:
A power steering fluid leak can cause your car to pull to one side when you turn the wheel, making it difficult to drive. A power steering fluid leak can also cause your car to become unstable when you’re driving in rain or snow. And finally, a power steering fluid leak can damage your car’s engine.
If you notice any of the following signs that suggest your power steering fluid is low or leaking, it’s time to replace it:
-Your car is pulling to one side when you turn the wheel
-Your car is becoming unstable when you’re driving in rain or snow
-The level of oil in your car’s dipstick (or equivalent gauge) is dropping
Conclusion
If you’re having trouble getting your car to start in cold weather, or if it’s been acting up lately and you think the power steering fluid may be at fault, here’s how you can check: Park the car in a warm spot (near a fireplace, for example) and turn off all of the lights. Wait 10 minutes so that the engine has had a chance to cool down. Check the power steering fluid level with a syringe. If there is too much fluid, add just enough distilled water until the level matches that shown on the dipstick. If there is not enough fluid, replace the power steering pump.