Should You Change Your Power Steering Fluid?

Remember the days when you had to muscle the steering wheel just to make a turn? Today’s vehicles are now equipped with power steering systems that work with precision—without straining your arms.    

There are two types of power steering systems: hydraulic and electric. There are still some vehicles that use hydraulic systems, but most of the newest vehicles have electric systems. If you do have a hydraulic power steering system, the fluid may need to be changed. This usually happens every four years or 50,000 miles.  

Before you think about changing the fluid, pay attention to your steering system. When the steering wheel becomes harder to turn or if you hear a whining noise from the pump coming from under the hood, then your power steering system needs to be checked.    

Another thing to consider is that the fluid in the system could degrade over time, picking up contaminants and debris. If this happens, the system’s pump and steering rack could get damaged. If you find that the fluid inside the pump looks dirty, foamy, or smells burnt, it is time to change the power steering fluid.    

Changing the fluid could be a do-it-yourself job. If you do so, understand that it is a messy job and may require a partial flush instead of a full flush. You have to remove the hose and use a fluid extractor to get the fluid out of the pump.  

When you replace the power steering fluid, make sure you use the exact required fluid, as stated in the owner’s manual or on the cap to the power steering pump. Sometimes it shares the same type of fluid as your transmission, but it could be a mineral-based fluid or a synthetic one. Putting in the wrong fluid will damage the steering system.    

Once you remove the cap, use the fluid extractor—or even a turkey baster—to remove the fluid into an empty container. You may have to do this a few times to get the fluid out of the pump. Once you have the fluid extracted, then fill up the pump with the new fluid. Please do not overfill the reservoir. The fluid can fluctuate depending on vehicle operation. You can check the fluid level by using the dipstick at the bottom of the cap. Make sure to replace the cap to the pump properly before testing.  

Replacing the power steering fluid may not be the easiest task for a do-it-yourselfer, which is why you can trust the Alderman Automotive Service Center to do it for you. We have the right tools, technicians, and expertise to do the job correctly the first time—and every time. Even if you do not have a hydraulic power steering system, we work to make sure your steering system works smoothly—electric power steering systems, too!  

If your steering system is not working properly, make an appointment at Alderman Automotive’s Service Center soon! We are always here to help!