A power steering fluid leak can be a frustrating problem to fix, as the fluid can slowly seep out and damage your engine. In this article, we’ll show you how to change out your power steering fluid and protect your car from potential damage.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a fluid that helps to direct the power from the engine to the steering wheel. It helps to keep the car from skidding when turning or driving.
How to Change Power Steering Fluid
If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t think much about your power steering fluid. But if your car starts to feel jerky or hard to drive in high gear, it’s probably time to change the fluid.
Changing the power steering fluid is a routine maintenance task that should be performed at least every 3 years, but it can also be done as needed. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Remove the front wheel and tire.
3. Remove the air filter cover and discard it.
4. Remove the four bolts that secure the power steering reservoir cover to the frame.
5. Lift off the cover and remove the power steering fluid reservoir (Figure A). Check for any leaks and replace any that are found.
6. Replace the cover and tighten bolts in reverse order of removal (Figure B).
When to Change Power Steering Fluid
If you’ve had your car for more than 6 months, it’s time to change the power steering fluid (PSF). The PSF lubricates and cools the power steering pump, and over time it can become clogged with build-up.
To change the PSF:
1. Park your car on a level surface with the engine off.
2. Disconnect the battery cable.
3. Remove the front wheel by removing the screws in the center of each hub.
4. Remove the front suspension by disconnecting the upper and lower control arms at their ball joints, then slide them outward.
5. Remove the power steering reservoir cover by gently pulling it off of its mounting tabs.
6. Locate and remove the power steering pump by unscrewing it from its housing (don’t lose any debris that falls out of the pump!). Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask to avoid breathing in any particles that might be in the fluid!
7. Pour new PSF into reservoir, screw on pump, replace cover, reconnect battery cable, and tighten screws in hub centers.
Warning Signs If You’re Not Changing Power Steering Fluid on Time
If you’re driving a vehicle with power steering, it’s important to change the fluid regularly. Power steering fluid helps to reduce friction and increase the accuracy of your steering. A lack of power steering fluid can lead to decreased accuracy, reduced control, and even failure of your power steering system.
Here are some warning signs that you should begin changing your power steering fluid:
-Your vehicle is pulling to one side more than the other
-The power steering feels heavy or clunky
-You see fluid leaking from your power steering system
Conclusion
Changing out your power steering fluid is an important maintenance task that everyone should undertake at some point. By doing this, you can ensure that your car will run smoothly and efficiently, minimizing the chances of getting into any accidents. Keep in mind that changing out your power steering fluid requires a few simple steps and is not as difficult as it might seem. If you have any questions or concerns about how to do this yourself, be sure to ask a friend or family member who knows how to do it. Thanks for reading!