When your car starts making that funny noise, it’s time to take it to the shop. But before you do, make sure you know how much it’s going to cost. In this article, we’ll break down the cost of flushing power steering fluid.
What is power steering fluid and why do you need to flush it?
Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps to power the steering system in a vehicle. Over time, this fluid can become dirty or contaminated, which can cause problems with the steering system. Flushing the power steering fluid helps to remove any dirt or debris from the system and can help to keep the steering system working properly.
How much does it cost to flush power steering fluid?
If your car is starting to feel like it’s losing power steering, or you’re hearing strange noises coming from the steering system, it might be time to flush the power steering fluid. This is a relatively simple and straightforward process, but it can be messy, so it’s best to do it in a well-ventilated area.
As far as cost goes, you’ll need to purchase a power steering flush kit, which typically runs between $20 and $40. You’ll also need about 2 quarts of fresh power steering fluid, which should cost less than $10. So all told, you’re looking at a cost of around $30 to $50 for this project.
How often should you flush your power steering fluid?
Most mechanics generally recommend that you flush your power steering fluid every 30,000 miles or so. However, this may vary depending on your make and model of car as well as your driving habits. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or frequently drive in dusty or dirty conditions, you may need to flush your power steering fluid more often. Consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic for specific advice on how often to flush your power steering fluid.
What are the signs that you need to flush your power steering fluid?
One of the most common signs that you need to flush your power steering fluid is when your steering feels heavy or sluggish. If it takes more effort to turn the steering wheel, it’s likely that your power steering fluid is dirty and needs to be flushed. Other signs include strange noises coming from the power steering system, or leaks from the power steering pump or hoses.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your power steering system checked by a mechanic. They can determine whether or not you need to flush the fluid, and if so, they can do it for you. Flushing the power steering fluid is a pretty straightforward process, but it’s best left to the professionals.
Do it yourself: How to flush your power steering fluid
If you’re starting to notice that your power steering isn’t working as well as it used to, it might be time to flush the fluid. Flushing the power steering fluid is a pretty simple process that you can do yourself, and it doesn’t take too long either. Here’s a quick guide on how to flush your power steering fluid:
1. Start by removing the power steering reservoir cap and then draining the fluid into a catch container.
2. Once the fluid has been drained, rinse out the reservoir with clean brake fluid or distilled water.
3. Refill the reservoir with fresh power steering fluid and then replace the cap.
4. With the fresh fluid in the system, operate the steering wheel back and forth to circulate it through the system.
5. Finally, check the level of fluid in the reservoir and top it off as necessary.
Conclusion
The cost to flush power steering fluid will depend on the type of car you have, the geographical location and the mechanic you visit. However, on average, it should cost between $75-$100 to have your power steering fluid flushed. Although this may seem like a lot of money, it is actually a relatively inexpensive repair and one that can save you a lot of money in the long run by extending the life of your car’s power steering system.