If you’re like most people, you don’t think about changing your power steering fluid until it’s time to do so. But according to the experts at YourMechanic, your power steering system is one of the most important parts of your car, and it should be treated as such. Here’s everything you need to know about changing your power steering fluid!
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a viscous, colorless, and odorless fluid that helps to keep your car’s steering wheel turning. Power steering fluid is also used in some other automotive systems, such as the braking system.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Power Steering Fluid Is Low?
If you suspect your power steering fluid is low, first make sure to check the level with a dipstick. If the level is below the “Low” line on the dipstick, then you will need to replace your power steering fluid. If the level is above the “High” line on the dipstick, then you can wait until the next time your car needs power steering fluid and refill it when you do Service.
How to Change Power Steering Fluid
If you are experiencing power steering problems, you may need to change your fluid. Power steering fluid is a lubricant that helps the engine and gearbox turn in the correct direction. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your car on a level surface. Make sure the parking brake is set.
2. Remove the wheel covers. On some models, you may need to remove the front bumper to do this.
3. Locate and unscrew the power steering reservoir cap. In some cars, this cap may be hidden under a plastic cover. If yours is not covered, use a screwdriver to pry it off. It should be marked “PS” or “POWER STEERING” on one side.
4. Carefully pour out any old power steering fluid into a container, using a funnel if necessary. Pour in fresh power steering fluid, making sure to fill the reservoir completely (use the measuring cup provided if necessary). Replace the cap and screw it back on tight.
5. Reinstall wheel covers and bumper, if applicable. Reconnect the negative battery cable. Start the car and check for steering problems. If everything is okay, you can drive your car home.
6. If you experience power steering problems after refilling the fluid, then it is most likely that the old fluid was contaminated with dirt, rocks, or other debris. In this case, you will need to replace the power steering system altogether. Contact a professional for assistance.
The Different Types of Power Steering Fluid
If you have a power steering system on your car, it’s important to keep the fluid level correct. Here are the different types of power steering fluid and how to change them:
1. Mineral oil- This is the most common type of power steering fluid and it’s usually synthetic. It has a low viscosity and is pourable. You can buy mineral oil in either a bottle or a can.
2. Synthetic blend- This is a mixture of mineral oil and synthetic fluids like PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene). It has a higher viscosity than mineral oil and is pourable only in a few brands of cars.
3. Heavy-duty synthetic- This type of fluid is specially formulated for heavy-duty use in cars with power steering systems. It has a higher viscosity than both the synthetic blend and mineral oil, making it difficult to pour without spilling.
4. Power steering Fluid Additive (PSF)- PSF is an additive that helps increase the efficiency of your power steering system by protecting the parts inside it from corrosion. It’s not necessary to replace your power steering fluid every time you change your oil but it’s a good idea to add PSF to your car’s system every 3,000 miles or every three oil changes, whichever comes first.
5. Auto-zone- This is a store that specializes in automotive parts and accessories. You can usually find the type of power steering fluid your car needs there.
Precautions When Changing Power Steering Fluid
When changing power steering fluid, it is important to follow the precautions outlined below. Failure to do so could result in serious injury.
Precautions When Changing Power Steering Fluid:
1) Be sure to have the correct tools and equipment on hand before starting the job. These include a quart or liter bottle of power steering fluid, a funnel, a hose clamp, and a container to catch the old fluid.
2) Fill the container with new power steering fluid and place it next to the drain at the bottom of the car. Make sure that the car is safely stopped in a location where you can reach both containers easily.
3) Remove the cap on the bottle of old fluid and hold it so that the outlet pipe is pointing down into the container. Turn the Rotary Cam Variable Pump Valve (if equipped) so that it can flow freely from the bottle into the container. Keep turning the valve until all of the old fluid has been replaced.
4) Replace the cap on the bottle of new fluid and tighten it securely. Make sure that there is no air trapped inside of the bottle.
Tips on How to Change Power Steering Fluid
If you have a 2006-2011 Toyota Camry, 2009-2012 Lexus LS, or 2010-2013 Scion tC, then you probably know how important it is to keep your power steering fluid level topped off. In this guide, we will show you how to change your power steering fluid in both automatic and manual cars.
First, make sure you have the correct tools and equipment: a funnel, bottle of power steering fluid, jack, lug wrench, and wheel chocks. If your car has an automatic transmission, be sure to also have the appropriate gearshift knobs removed.
Next, locate the power steering fluid reservoir located on the front left or right side of the engine near the firewall. Use the funnel to pour in a small amount of fluid until the bottle is three quarters full. Make sure to fill the reservoir completely so there is no room for air bubbles to form.
To change the power steering fluid in a manual car, first remove the cap on the reservoir andfill it with fluid using the jug. Next use the lug wrench to loosen the bolt that holds on top ofthe reservoir. Be careful not to drop the jug or spill any fluid. Finally, remove the bolt and replace the reservoir. Tighten the bolt using the lug wrench.
To change the power steering fluid in an automatic car, first remove the cap on the reservoir and fill it with fluid using the jug. Next use the screwdriver to loosen the bolts that hold on top ofthe reservoir. Be careful not to drop the jug or spill any fluid. Finally, remove the bolts and replace the reservoir.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing problems with your power steering, it is important to take action as soon as possible. By following these simple steps, you should be able to fix the issue and return your car to normal functioning in no time. If you do not feel like you can handle the repair on your own, or if you have any other questions about how to change power steering fluid, please don’t hesitate to contact a mechanic.