You may be surprised to learn that most cars built within the last 15 years or so actually have electric power steering. This means that instead of a hydraulic pump powered by a drive belt connected to the engine, an electric motor provides the force needed to turn the wheels.
How much power steering fluid does your car need?
If you’re like most car owners, you probably don’t think about your power steering fluid very often. But this important fluid plays a vital role in keeping your car’s steering system operating smoothly.
So how much power steering fluid does your car need? It depends on the make and model of your vehicle, but most cars will hold between 2 and 4 quarts of fluid. Check your owner’s manual to be sure.
If you notice that your power steering fluid is low, don’t hesitate to top it off. A little bit of extra fluid can often make a big difference in the way your car steers.
How often should you check your power steering fluid levels?
It is important to check your power steering fluid levels regularly to ensure that your vehicle is running properly. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to check it as often as every few months or every few thousand miles. If you notice any changes in the way your vehicle handles, be sure to check your fluid levels right away and top off as needed.
What are the signs of low power steering fluid levels?
If your power steering fluid levels are low, you may notice:
1. A whining noise coming from the power steering pump
2. Difficulty turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds
3. Steering that feels “heavy” or “stiff”
4. A burning smell coming from the power steering system
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to check your power steering fluid levels and top off the fluid as needed.
How to add power steering fluid
If your car is low on power steering fluid, you may notice that the steering feels heavy or sluggish. You may also hear strange noises coming from the power steering system, or see leaks under the hood.
Luckily, it’s easy to add power steering fluid to most cars. Just follow these simple steps:
1. Find the power steering reservoir. This is usually located near the engine, on the side of the firewall.
2. Open the reservoir cap and check the fluid level. If it’s low, add more fluid until it reaches the “full” line on the side of the reservoir.
3. Close the reservoir cap and start the engine. Turn the steering wheel a few times to make sure the new fluid is circulated throughout the system.
That’s all there is to it! By keeping your power steering fluid at the proper level, you can help extend the life of your car’s power steering system.
How to tell if your power steering fluid is bad
If your steering feels heavy or you hear a squealing noise when you turn the wheel, it may be time to check your power steering fluid. Here’s how to tell if your fluid is bad and needs to be replaced:
1. Check the color of the fluid. If it is dark brown or black, it needs to be replaced.
2. Check the level of the fluid. If it is low, topping it off may solve the problem. However, if the level is low and there are no leaks, it may be an indication of a bigger problem and you should have your vehicle checked by a mechanic.
3. Smell the fluid. If it has a burning smell, it means the fluid is breaking down and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
As a rule of thumb, it is always best to check your power steering fluid levels every time you get your oil changed. This will ensure that you catch any potential problems early and prevent them from becoming larger, more expensive issues down the road. With that said, most cars will hold between two and four quarts of power steering fluid. Of course, it is always best to consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic to be absolutely sure how much power steering fluid your car needs.