This guide will show you how to check the power steering fluid in your car. Power steering fluid is a essential part of your car’s system, and if it starts to leak, it can cause problems with your car. By following these steps, you can ensure that your power steering fluid is healthy and functioning properly.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a lubricant that helps the power steering system turn the wheels. Power steering fluid should be checked regularly and kept at a consistent level in order to ensure proper operation of the power steering system.
How To Check The Power Steering Fluid:
1. Park your vehicle with the parking brake on.
2. Turn the ignition off and remove the key from the ignition.
3. Open the hood and locate the power steering reservoir.
4. Fill a container about two-thirds full with cool, fresh water and add three capfuls of power steering fluid to it. (If using a pressure gauge, fill it to around 30 psi.)
5. Place the container in the center of the power steering reservoir area and make sure it’s balanced so that it doesn’t move while you’re checking the fluid level.
6. Turn on the engine and open the flood gates on the reservoir to allow fluid to flow into and out of it. Note how much fluid comes out of the reservoir during this process; this is your current level of power steering fluid. Repeat this procedure until you have replaced all of the fluid in the reservoir.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t think about checking the power steering fluid (PSF) very often. But if your car’s power steering starts to feel weak or clunky, it might be time to check the PSF. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your car in a level area.
2. Turn off the engine and all accessories.
3. Remove the driver’s side wheel.
4. Disconnect the PSF hose from the pressure reservoir (or lines leading to it).
5. Use a funnel to fill the pressure reservoir with PSF until the level reads 3/4 full (or to the recommended level, whichever is lower).
6. Reattach the hose and tighten it evenly around the reservoir (or lines leading to it).
7. Reconnect the driver’s side wheel and turn on the engine, accessories, and drive away carefully.
Causes of Power Steering Fluid Leaks
Power steering fluid can leak from any joint in the power steering system, but the most common places for leaks are at the pump and the hose. The pump can fail due to corrosion or wear, causing the fluid to leak. The hose can also fail due to corrosion or wear, leading to fluid leaking from the joint where it connects to the pump. Other causes of power steering fluid leaks include a failed reservoir or cracked hoses.
How to Fix a Power Steering Fluid Leak
If your car is losing power steering fluid, you need to take it in for service. Here are four steps to diagnosing and fixing a power steering fluid leak.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing difficulty turning your car, or if the power steering fluid level is low, it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible. Checking the power steering fluid level isn’t difficult, and can save you a lot of money in the long run.