Putting power steering fluid in your car can seem like a daunting task, but don’t worry – this guide will help you do it correctly!
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a fluid that helps move the car by turning the wheel and providing power to the car’s steering system. It helps the driver steer the car and make it move in the desired direction. Power steering fluid should be changed every 3 to 6 months, depending on the car’s use.
How to Remove Power Steering Fluid
If your car has power steering, it needs power steering fluid. You can get power steering fluid from your car’s manufacturer or from a mechanic.
To remove power steering fluid:
1. Park the car in a level place.
2. Turn off the ignition and the emergency brake.
3. Open the hood.
4. Remove the screws that hold the power steering reservoir to the engine block.
5. Pull out the power steering reservoir.
6. Add enough new power steering fluid to the reservoir to cover the bottom of the hoses.
7. Replace the screws and tighten them securely with a wrench.
8. Reinstall the power steering reservoir on the engine block and replace the screws that hold it in place.
9. Turn on the ignition and emergency brake, then drive away from the car care center.
How to Add Power Steering Fluid
If you’re like most people, your car’s power steering feels a bit stiffer than it should. The issue? Your power steering fluid has probably lost its lubrication and is becoming difficult to move the steering wheel.
Here’s how to add power steering fluid:
1. Park your car in a level spot.
2. Open the hood and locate the reservoir that holds the power steering fluid. It’s usually on the driver’s side under the hood or behind the front bumper.
3. Slowly release the pressure from the brake pedal so that your car begins to move forward.
4. Place one foot on the brake pedal and use your other hand to unscrew the cap on top of the reservoir. Be careful not to let any fluid escape.
5. Carefully pour a few ounces of power steering fluid into the reservoir. Replace the cap and screw it tightly onto the bottle.
6. Drive your car around for a few minutes to allow the new fluid to circulate through the system.
What to do if Power Steering Fluid is Leaking
If you’re noticing fluid leaking from your car’s power steering system, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the issue. First, make sure you have the right fluid for your car. Most vehicles require either a Dexron III or Dexron II type of power steering fluid. If you’re not sure which type your car uses, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Next, check to see if any bolts are loose on the power steering system. Loose bolts can cause power steering fluid to leak. Finally, if none of these methods work, it may be necessary to replace the power steering system altogether.
Conclusion
If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t know how to put power steering fluid in your car. If your car has a manual transmission, the process is pretty straightforward: Open the hood, find the power steering reservoir (usually near the front of the engine), pour in enough fluid to cover the top of the reservoir, close the hood, and turn the key to “on.” If your car has an automatic transmission, you’ll need to remove the shift knob and dip down into the gearbox (in front of where your manual would be) and fill up a syringe with power steering fluid. After filling up the syringe, insert it into one of several places on your car’s interior — usually near or behind where your shifter would be — and squirt fluid into each gear box. Replace all of that hardware, turn off your car’s ignition, and you’re good to go!