Changing your power steering fluid can be a frustrating experience, as the process is usually done in a cramped space and requires a lot of dexterity. But is it really necessary to change your power steering fluid every 7,500 miles? The answer may surprise you.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid lubricates and protects the internals of the power steering system. It keeps the gears turning, providing smooth and accurate motion. Power steering fluid also helps to reduce wear and tear on the gears and components of the power steering system.
Power steering fluid is typically a transparent, colorless liquid with a characteristic fishy smell. It is typically dispensed from a container in a pump or can. Power steering fluid should be replaced every 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and use.
What are the Different Types of Power Steering Fluid?
There are a few types of power steering fluid, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a closer look at each type:
1. Engine Oil: Engine oil is the most common type of power steering fluid, and it’s the traditional choice for cars with manual transmissions. Engine oil is a synthetic blend that includes additives to improve performance and reliability. One downside of engine oil is that it can become contaminated with dirt, dust, and other particles over time. This can lead to decreased steering performance and even failure.
2. Synthetic Fluid: Synthetic fluids are designed to replace engine oil in cars with automatic transmissions. They’re also popular in high-performance applications, such as drag racing and rally racing. One big advantage of synthetic fluids is that they don’t contain any harmful chemicals or oils. They also tend to offer better performance than engine oil in cold weather conditions. However, synthetic fluids can be more expensive than engine oil, and they may not work as well in extreme heat or cold temperatures.
3. Gear Oil: Gear oil is a specialized type of power steering fluid designed for use in manual transmissions equipped with planetary gearsets. Gear oil helps to lubricate the gear
When Should You Change Your Power Steering Fluid?
When should you change your power steering fluid? The answer is pretty straightforward: always change your power steering fluid if the level falls below the manufacturer’s recommendations. But what about when the level is just a bit high? How do you know when to change your power steering fluid, and how much should you change?
The amount of fluid that needs to be changed depends on a few things, like the make and model of your vehicle, how often you drive it, and how much wear and tear the fluid has taken. Generally, you’ll want to change your power steering fluid every 3 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first. If the level is high, you may only need to add fluid rather than replace the entire reservoir.
So remember: always check your power steering fluid levels and replace as needed – but don’t wait too long! Changing your power steering fluid can help keep your car working like new.
How to Change Your Power Steering Fluid Yourself
When it comes to car maintenance, few tasks are as dreaded as changing your power steering fluid. But fear not, because you can change your own power steering fluid without having to call a mechanic. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your car in a safe location where you can work on it safely.
2. Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
3. Open the hood of your car and remove the air filter.
4. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir (usually located under the hood) and unscrew the cap.
5. Pour out the old power steering fluid and replace it with new fluid according to your car’s manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to use an appropriate grade of fluid and to add enough fluid to fill the reservoir completely. Replace all of the caps and screws on the reservoir before closing the hood.
6. Start up your car and check for leaks before driving away!
Conclusion
Power steering fluid is one of those things that you think you should change, but really you don’t need to. Power steering fluid helps lubricate the power steering pump and helps it work more effectively. In most cases, changing your power steering fluid will not improve your car’s performance or make it feel any better.