One of the most common repairs you’ll need to make on your car is to refill the power steering fluid. In this article, we’ll show you how to do it step-by-step, so that you can keep your car running smoothly and safely.
What is a power steering system?
A power steering system is a component of an automobile that helps the driver steer the vehicle. The power steering system includes the engine, gearbox, and power steering pump. The power steering pump helps to circulate fluid through the system to help the driver steer the car.
How to refill a power steering system
If your power steering system is depleted, you can refill it with a new fluid and sealant. Follow these steps to do the refill:
1. Remove the lower cover of the steering system by unscrewing the four bolts that hold it in place.
2. Remove the old fluid and remove any debris that may have been trapped in the system.
3. Pour in a new fluid and sealant and replace the cover.
4. Tighten the bolts to secure the cover.
What are the risks of not refilling a power steering system?
When a power steering system is not refilled, the fluid can become thick and past its expiration date. This can cause decreased power and difficulty steering. Additionally, the fluid may also contain contaminants that can damage the system. If left untreated, these contaminants may cause a leak that can lead to expensive repairs.
It is important to take care of your power steering system by refilling it as necessary. By doing so, you will ensure that your car is performing at its best and that you are taking minimum risk for potential damage or repair costs.
How to replace a power steering system
If your car starts to feel stiff or difficult to drive, it might be time to replace the power steering system. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your car in a safe location and turn off the ignition.
2. Remove the cover over the power steering pump. On some models, this may be located behind the front wheel well.
3. Remove the power steering fluid reservoir cap and wait until the fluid has stopped flowing before removing the cap from the pump body.
4. Place a bucket beneath the pump and pour about 2 gallons of power steering fluid into it. Be sure to mix in fresh fluid as old fluid will contain dirt, rust, and other contaminants that can damage your pump.
5. Replace the pump body and cap, making sure they are securely attached before refilling the reservoir with more fluids. Replace any filters that have been installed in between steps 4 and 5 as necessary.
6. Turn on the ignition and test your car’s power steering by turning the wheel in both directions. If everything is working properly, replace any seals or gaskets that have failed during disassembly/reassembly