The fluid in your power steering system is what helps make turning your wheel easier. Over time, this fluid can get dirty and need to be changed. Here’s how you can do it yourself!
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps to transmit power from the steering wheel to the wheels of a vehicle. The fluid also helps to lubricate the components of the power steering system and keep them cool. Over time, power steering fluid can become dirty or degraded, which can cause problems with the power steering system. That’s why it’s important to change the power steering fluid on a regular basis.
Changing the power steering fluid is a pretty simple process, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the system. Here’s a quick overview of how to change the power steering fluid in your vehicle:
1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Locate the power steering reservoir. On most vehicles, this will be located near the engine bay.
3. Remove the cap from the reservoir and use a turkey baster or similar tool to remove the old fluid from the reservoir.
4. Fill the reservoir with new power steering fluid until it reaches the “full” line.
5. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel back and forth several times to bleed air out of the system.
6. Check the level of fluid in the reservoir and add
How to Check Your Power Steering Fluid Level
If your steering feels heavy or you hear a whining noise when you turn the wheel, it might be time to check your power steering fluid level. Here’s how:
1. Park your car on level ground and turn off the engine.
2. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It’s usually a clear plastic container with a screw-on cap, and it’s usually located near the power steering pump.
3. Unscrew the cap and wipe any dirt or grime from the opening with a clean cloth.
4. Check the fluid level. If it’s below the “Full” line on the reservoir, you’ll need to add more fluid.
5. Add power steering fluid as needed, then screw the cap back on tightly.
How to Add Power Steering Fluid
If your power steering system starts making noise or seems less responsive than usual, it may be time to add power steering fluid. Power steering fluid helps lubricate the moving parts in your power steering system and keeps it running smoothly. Follow these steps to add power steering fluid to your car.
Locate the power steering reservoir. This is usually located near the engine bay on the driver’s side of the car.
Remove the cap from the reservoir and check the level of fluid. If it is low, you will need to add more.
Using a funnel, slowly pour power steering fluid into the reservoir until it reaches the “full” line. Do not overfill!
Replace the cap on the reservoir and start up your car. Check for any leaks around the reservoir before driving.
How to Change Your Power Steering Fluid
Assuming you have a basic understanding of your vehicle and how to change fluids, we’ll go ahead and get started on changing your power steering fluid.
As always, park your vehicle on level ground before beginning any work. Locate the power steering reservoir; it’s usually found near the front of the engine bay on the driver’s side. Unscrew the cap and use a funnel to pour in the new fluid. You can usually find the recommended type of fluid in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. With the engine still running, turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times. This will help bleed any air out of the system.
Shut off the engine and check the level of fluid in the reservoir. If necessary, add more until it reaches the “full” line. Replace the cap and you’re all done!
Conclusion
Follow these steps the next time you need to change your power steering fluid and you’ll be back on the road in no time. Be sure to consult your car’s owner manual before beginning any work to ensure that you are taking the proper precautions. Have you ever had to change your power steering fluid? Let us know in the comments below!