Many drivers are unaware of the importance of properly filling their power steering fluid. If your power steering system is not filled to the proper level, it can cause your engine to misfire and your car to drift or pull to one side. In this article, we’ll show you step by step how to fill your power steering system and why it’s so important.
Why Is My Power Steering Not Working?
If your power steering isn’t working, there are a few potential reasons. Here are a few of the most common ones:
1. A power steering hose may be kinked or compressed. Try moving the hose around and see if the issue goes away. If not, you’ll need to replace the hose.
2. The power steering pump may be failing. If the pump can’t keep up with the demand from the engine, it will likely stop working. You’ll need to replace the pump.
3. The power steering circuit board may be damaged or defective. If this is the case, you’ll need to replace the entire circuit board.
How to Fix a Power Steering Leak
If you are experiencing power steering leaks, follow these instructions to fix the issue:
1. Remove the cover over the power steering pump by loosening the four bolts and removing it.
2. Check for any signs of fluid leakage by putting a lighted candle near the pump and looking for a flame (if there is a leak, fluid will spread around the area).
3. If there is no fluid leakage, then check for blockages in the hoses by using a hose to spray water into each one (if there is a blockage, water will not flow through).
4. If all of these tests come back clean, then replace the power steering pump as needed.
How To Fill A Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
A power steering fluid reservoir should be filled every 3 months, or when the fluid level falls below the “3/4 full” line on the reservoir. Here’s how to do it:
1) Park your car in a level spot.
2) Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
3) Open the hood and locate the power steering Reservoir.
4) Use a funnel or a hose to pour about 1 quart of fluid into the Reservoir. Make sure to fill it all the way to the top of the Reservoir.
5) Replace the cover and close the hood.
6) Turn on the engine and check for leaks.
How To Change A Power Steering Belt
Changing a power steering belt can be a relatively easy task if you have the right tools. There are a few different types of belts, but the most common is the serpentine belt. This type of belt is made up of many small, rubber-covered pulleys that rotate as the car moves. The belt transmits power from the engine to the steering wheel.
To change a power steering belt, you’ll need:
-A power tool, such as a socket wrench or ratchet
-A serpentine belt
-A breaker bar or an adjustable wrench
-Jack stands or a large metal object to support the car
-LUBE: This is extremely important! Power steering systems use oil to help guide and distribute power to the wheels, so make sure to use some sort of lubricant when changing the belt. Some popular choices are WD-40 or Motorcraft Lube.
To begin, remove the bolts that hold on the bracket that holds the power steering pump in place. Use a socket wrench to remove them loosely so you can move them out of the way later. Next, remove the pump by unscrewing it from its mount. Once it’s free, position it so you have room