Your car’s power steering system is essential for keeping you on the road and safe. If it starts to go, or if the fluid levels start to drop, it’s time to get your car serviced and replace the fluid. Here’s how to do it:
What is Power Steering Fluid and What Does it Do?
When your car is in gear and the steering wheel turns, the power steering system helps guide the car. The power steering fluid helps reduce friction between the pump and motor, which allows the wheel to turn smoothly. Over time, power steering fluid can become contaminated and stop working as efficiently. When this happens, your car’s steering will become less responsive and you may experience difficulty turning. In some cases, a power steering fluid leak can also cause your car to hydroplane. If you notice any of these signs of a problem, it’s important to take action and replace your power steering fluid.
How to Change Power Steering Fluid
If your car has power steering, you will need to change the fluid every 7-10,000 miles. The process of changing the power steering fluid is relatively easy and can be done in just a couple of hours. Here are the steps to follow:
1) Park your car in a level place and shut off the engine.
2) Remove the lid on the reservoir that holds the power steering fluid.
3) Remove the cover on the power steering pump.
4) Measure how much fluid is in the pump and add enough new fluid to make up the total volume of the reservoir. (You can use a syringe if you have trouble measuring.)
5) Replace the pump cover and replace the reservoir lid.
6) Reinstall all ofthe components in reverse order, starting withthe engine running.
What to Do if Your Power Steering Fluid is Leaky
If your power steering fluid is leaking, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the issue. First, make sure you have the correct kind of power steering fluid for your car. If you don’t know what type of fluid your car uses, check with your car manufacturer. Second, check to see if the seal around the pump is damaged or missing. If so, you will need to replace the seal. Finally, if all else fails, you may need to replace the power steering pump itself.
How Often Should You Change Your Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a component of your car’s hydraulic system. It helps to circulate the fluid so that the car can move in the direction you want it to. Over time, power steering fluid can become contaminated with dirt and other debris. When this happens, it can cause decreased effectiveness and even failure of the power steering system.
According to the CarComplaints.com website, it’s recommended that you change your power steering fluid every 3 years or 30,000 miles. If you’re not sure when your last change was, you can check your car’s service manual or consult a qualified mechanic.
Conclusion
If your power steering fluid is low, it’s time to replace it. Power steering fluid is a necessary component in the hydraulic system of your car and its failure can result in decreased driver control and dangerous conditions on the road. Follow these simple steps to replace your power steering fluid: 1) Park your car safely and turn off all electrical accessories. 2) Remove the engine cover. 3) Located under the hood, remove the bolts that secure the power steering pump housing to the frame of your vehicle. 4) Disconnect both hoses from the pump housing. 5) Remove the old power steering fluid by draining it into a container or through a filter. 6) Clean all metal parts of the pump housing and replace any worn or damaged parts with new ones.