Power steering fluid is one of those things that people tend to forget about, or simply don’t know how much to use. Too much power steering fluid can actually cause your car to skid and fail safety inspections, so it’s important to know the right amount. In this article, we’ll show you how to measure the power steering fluid level in your car, and explain the benefits of using the correct amount.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a type of lubricant that is used in automobiles to help direct the movement of the steering wheel. Power steering fluid helps to decrease the amount of effort that is needed to turn the wheel, which can make driving more comfortable and easier.
Power steering fluid should be checked regularly, and replaced when it starts to smell bad or becomes thick.
How Power Steering Fluid Works
Power steering fluid is a fluid that helps to guide the car in the correct direction. When you turn the wheel, power steering fluid moves the car’s steering wheel and allows you to control the car.
When to Change Power Steering Fluid
If you’ve been driving your car for a while, you may have noticed that the power steering feels less and less responsive as the fluid gets dirty. Eventually, it will become almost non-functional. If this is your situation, it’s important to replace the power steering fluid as soon as possible in order to restore responsiveness and performance. Here are some guidelines on when to change power steering fluid:
If you experience reduced response or feel like your car is pulling to one side more than the other, it’s time to change the power steering fluid. The fluid should be replaced every 3 – 6 months, depending on how often you drive and how much wear and tear your vehicle puts on the system.
If you experience a sudden loss of power steering, or if your fluid looks or smells burnt, it’s time to change the fluid as soon as possible.
What to Do if You Don’t Have Power Steering Fluid
If your power steering is not working and you don’t have any fluid, there are a few things you can do. First, check the reservoir to make sure it is full. Second, check the lines for blockages. Finally, try pouring a small amount of oil down each line and turning the wheel while watching the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid level goes down, then there is a blockage somewhere. If all of these steps fail to fix the problem, then you may need to take your vehicle into a mechanic.
Conclusion
If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t want to think about how much power steering fluid your car needs. But if your steering feels clunky or if the wheel feels too heavy when turning, it might be time to check the level. A low power steering fluid level can cause problems with both turning and maneuverability, so it’s important to keep an eye on it.