Power steering was a revolution in the automotive world, making it easier to maneuver a car regardless of its size. For the system to operate failure-free, the power steering fluid must be replaced regularly. We check when and how to change steering oil.
What is power steering fluid used for?
As drivers, we remember to change engine oil or fluids:brake, for windshield washers orradiator. We rarely check the steering fluid level. Meanwhile, it is crucial for the operation of the power steering, which allows you to turn the steering wheel with much less force. We appreciate its advantages especially when maneuvering in urban conditions.
The pump is crucial for the operation of the power steering system. It generates pressure that pumps the steering fluid into the system that carries the rotation force. Thanks to this, the load does not go directly to the wheels, and turning the steering wheel does not require much force. In addition, power steering oil causes the steering wheel to return to its position after turning.
In addition to its practical function, steering fluid also lubricates and protects the mechanism components against friction and overheating. If it is missing or the power steering fluid loses its properties, it may result in a serious and expensive repair failure of the power steering system.
What do you need to know when choosing power steering fluid?
We will find it on the marketpower steering fluids from various manufacturers, who offer them in three colors. Typically, power steering fluid is distinguished:
- yellow– mainly for Mercedes-Benz cars;
- red– mainly for Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda and General Motors cars;
- zielony– mainly for cars of the Ford, Bentley, BMW, Volvo and Daimler AG group.
When considering which power steering fluid to choose, you should follow the labels. They contain information about the composition of the mixture and the car brands for which the fluid is dedicated. There are three main types of steering fluid, namely:
mineral
With petroleum particles and additives that improve the operational properties of the oil. Characteristics:
- low price,
- safe for rubber power steering elements,
- short period of use,
- prone to increased foam formation.
semisynthetic
Containing mineral and synthetic substances. Characteristics:
- low viscosity,
- resistance to foaming,
- good lubricity,
- destructive effect on the rubber elements of the power steering system.
synthetic
Consisting of polyhydric alcohols, polyesters and a small amount of purified petroleum. Characteristics:
- resistance to foam formation,
- low viscosity,
- ability to work at extreme temperatures,
- longest service life,
- higher price.
When should the power steering fluid be replaced?
The power steering fluid should be replaced at most once every 2-3 years, or after 60-100 km. km. Steering oil gradually loses its properties during operation, which leads to damage to the pump or wear of sealing elements.
The following factors contribute to faster fluid consumption: dynamic driving and damage and overheating of the steering system. The following symptoms suggest the need to replace it:
- color change (darker oil color),
- noticeable burning smell,
- increased resistance on the steering wheel,
- strange sounds when turning the steering wheel,
- fluid leaks.
What benefits does changing the power steering fluid regularly?
Like other operating fluids, power steering oil also ensures efficient operation of the entire system. In addition to enabling the wheels to turn, it lubricates the mechanism components and protects them against overheating.
The amount of fluid in the reservoir under the hood should be close to the MAX limit. We measure the oil level using a dipstick, which is part of the cap used to close the tank. The tank itself is easy to recognize by the steering wheel symbol on the tap or the inscription "power steering fluid".
Steering wheel turn – power steering fluid
How to replace power steering fluid?
Knowing the type and replacement intervals and knowing how much power steering fluid should be in the reservoir, you can replace it yourself. You can choose from one of two methods:
Without dismantling the tank
- We pump out the contents of the tank with a syringe and a hose.
- Pour new oil into the tank.
- We take a seat behind the steering wheel and turn it left and right several times until it stops (the new fluid will be forced into the power steering system, and the old one will be directed to the reservoir).
- Repeat the entire operation until the oil in the tank is clean.
With partial disassembly of the system
- We empty the reservoir of old oil.
- We are looking for a cable leading directly to the gearbox.
- We move it down so that it is below the steering gear.
- Place a container for the power steering fluid under the hose outlet.
- We crank several times without starting the engine steering wheel right and left until the fluid is pumped out of the system.
- We put together the disassembled elements and pour new fluid into the tank.
- Start the engine and turn the steering wheel to the right and left several times.
Information about which oil is optimal for a given car model can be found in the car's manual. Many drivers wonder what power steering fluid to use for a top-up.
It is important not to mix mineral, synthetic and semi-synthetic fluids when replacing them. When refilling, use the same type of fluid. That's why it's worth having it in the trunk along with other fluids, a jack orwheel repair kit.
The power steering fluid level may be lowsystem light on. However, it will also come on in the event of a blown fuse responsible for the operation of the power steering (the ABS light is often also on), a failure of the power steering pump, or even the electronics responsible for unlocking and adjusting the steering wheel.
Power steering fluid and oil
The difference between power steering fluid and oil is basically non-existent. Sellers use these two names interchangeably. This is because, in addition to specialized fluids intended for power steering systems, oils are also used (e.g. for automatic transmissions).
The most important thing is that the power steering fluid (oil) should be incompressible, have a high boiling point, be durable and lubricate the system components. Of course, it is safest to use fluids with the standard specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
You certainly shouldn't make the mistake of many other drivers by neglecting to check and replace the power steering fluid. A bottle of the best quality synthetic oil costs up to PLN 40. It is often enriched with refining mixtures and agents that eliminate and prevent leaks.
