If your car is feeling a little sluggish or difficult to move, it might be time to give power steering fluid a shot. Power steering fluid helps to increase the power and smoothness of the movement of your car’s steering wheel. However, if you notice that your car is beginning to lose power or has extremely stiff steering, it might be time to replace the power steering fluid altogether.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a fluid that helps to move the steering wheel by providing resistance to movement. The fluid is used in cars, trucks, and other vehicles. It helps to keep the steering system working properly.
Some signs that your car may need power steering fluid include:
-The steering feels heavy or clunky
-The car doesn’t seem to move as easily as it should
-The car has a difficult time turning
-The engine seems to slow down when driving in a straight line
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to get a professional to take a look at your car’s steering system. Power steering fluid can be expensive to replace, so it is important to take care of it if it starts to get low.
How to Test for Power Steering Fluid
If your car has power steering, you will need to check the fluid level and replace it as needed. Here’s how to do it:
1) Park your car in a level place.
2) Turn off the car and remove the key.
3) Open the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It will most likely be located on the left side of the engine block.
4) Use a ruler or a straight edge to measure the level of fluid in the reservoir. Write this measurement down.
5) Close the hood and turn on the car. If the reservoir is low on fluid, the power steering will feel clunky and difficult to use.
How to Change Power Steering Fluid in a Car
Most cars require power steering fluid to stay lubricated and operate properly. In some cases, the power steering system may become blocked, which will eventually require replacement of the system. Here are steps on how to change power steering fluid in a car:
1) Park your car on a level surface.
2) Disable the car’s security system by removing the key from the ignition and turning it to the “off” position.
3) Open the driver’s door and remove any objects that may be in the way.
4) Locate and unscrew the power steering reservoir cap.
5) Remove the power steering fluid reservoir (it will likely be sealed with a gasket). Pour out all of the fluid.
6) Wipe down all parts of the reservoir, cap, and threads with a clean cloth or paper towel. Reinstall everything in reverse order, making sure to torque the cap to 80 inch pounds (13 Nm).
What To Do If Your Car Needs More Power Steering Fluid Than Normal
If you’re noticing a decrease in power steering fluid level, it’s likely time to top up your car’s reservoir. Here are some tips on how to tell if your car needs more power steering fluid:
If you have been driving your car for a long period of time and the power steering is becoming harder to use, it is likely that your car needs more power steering fluid.
To test whether or not your car needs more power steering fluid, disconnect the negative battery cable before filling the reservoir. Then, connect the battery cable once again and see if there is an improvement in how easy it is to steer the car. If there is an improvement, then your car likely needs more power steering fluid.
Conclusion
If your car has been making a clicking or grinding noise when you turn, it might be time to replace the power steering fluid. Power steering fluid helps your car steer by turning the rack and pinion in your axle. If the fluid is low (or if it has been contaminated), it can cause these noises and make it difficult to drive. If you think your car needs power steering fluid, schedule an appointment with your mechanic to have them check it out.