You’ve probably heard the horror stories of power steering boiling over, ruining your car and costing you thousands of dollars in repairs. What you may not know is that this problem is actually caused by a buildup of power steering fluid on the supply lines. Here’s why, and how to fix it if it happens to you.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a viscous, colorless liquid that is used to lubricate and cool the power steering system. It helps to provide a more friction-free experience when turning the wheel and ensures that the system remains operational during high-speed maneuvers. Power steering fluid also helps to reduce noise and vibration levels in the car.
Power steering fluid typically lasts around 6 months or 300,000 miles before needing to be replaced. When replacing power steering fluid, it is important to use the correct grade for your vehicle. Overuse of a lower-grade fluid can damage your power steering system, while using a higher-grade fluid can increase noise and vibration levels in the car.
If you are experiencing problems with your power steering system, be sure to check your fluid level and replace any needed fluids. Power steering systems are often one of the first things to fail on older cars, so it is important to take care of them!
What Causes Power Steering Fluid to Boil?
When power steering fluid boils, it creates a harmful vapor that can seep into the engine and cause serious damage. Here are some common causes of power steering fluid boiling:
1. The power steering pump is not working properly. This can be due to a faulty motor, worn components, or a clogged filter.
2. The power steering reservoir is filled too high or too low. Overfilling the reservoir can cause the pressure inside to become too high, leading to boiling. Underfilling the reservoir can also lead to boiling, but in this case the pressure is too low and liquid leaking from the reservoir creates a vacuum that sucks fluid up into the pump.
3. The heat exchanger has failed. This is usually due to an issue with the cooling system, such as a leaky fan or failing radiator hose. When the heat exchanger fails, the power steering fluid overheats and boils.
4. Damage to the system caused by corrosion or excessive wear. Power steering fluid is designed to resist corrosion, but over time even small amounts of corrosive elements can cause problems. In addition, power steering systems are subjected to high levels of wear and tear which can also cause boiling.
How to Fix a Power Steering Fluid Boil
If you have a power steering fluid boil, there are a few things you can do to fix it. First, make sure the fluid is hot enough. Second, check the pressure in the system. Third, clean the system. Finally, replace the power steering fluid if needed.
Conclusion
Power steering fluid boils are a common problem on vehicles, and they can be difficult to diagnose and fix. Here are three reasons power steering fluid boils happen, along with some tips on how to prevent them from happening in the first place.