How to Check and Maintain Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid is just as important as any other fluid in your vehicle. Power steering fluid is essential to keep your steering in working order. Without enough fluid your steering can become VERY difficult, if not impossible. Many problems can be associated with power steering fluid. Such as if there is not enough steering can become difficult, or you will hear noises when you steer, such as a grinding or humming noise.
Too much fluid is not bad, it may just leak a little bit out, or you will have extra in the reservoir. There are problems that can be caused with overfill of fluids in your vehicle, but power steering fluid does not cause any of those, as far as I know.
The more you can personally do to your vehicle, the better. Therefore in the guide I will explain how to check and maintain your power steering fluid.
STEP 1:
Read the entire section of your owner’s manual that has to do with powers steering, learn what level it should be at, what type of fluid should be in the reservoir, and how to fill it. Also look in the owner’s manual for the location of the power steering pump.
STEP 2:
Once you understand the basics, find the hood release button, pop it, and open the hood.
STEP 3:
Locate the power steering pump. The location should have been shown in the owner’s manual. But if it was not, on most vehicles the power steering pump is located in the same area, lower right facing the driver compartment underneath the alternator.
STEP 4:
Find the cap, and unscrew it, there should be small indicator marks on the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick off with a small rag, and insert it into the reservoir. Remove again and check where the fluid level is on the dipstick. If it is on ADD, you need to add power steering fluid. Hopefully you have already figured out which type in the owner’s manual.
STEP 5:
Now, grab a funnel and insert it into the power steering fluid reservoir. Once it is secure, begin slowly pouring power steering fluid into it. Once you’re done filling it, screw the cap back on. Remove the cap once more, wipe it off with the rag, and check it again.
Great! The job is done. By reading this guide, you have become knowledgeable in the process of checking and replacing power steering fluid.
