{"id":12736,"date":"2023-04-10T07:10:00","date_gmt":"2023-04-10T13:10:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shieldagency.com\/blog\/?p=12736"},"modified":"2023-04-05T12:23:54","modified_gmt":"2023-04-05T18:23:54","slug":"what-is-power-steering-fluid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shieldagency.com\/blog\/what-is-power-steering-fluid\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Power Steering Fluid?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Nationwide | February 22, 2023 | Power Steering | Auto Insurance<\/a> | Start a quote today!<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like all fluids in your vehicle, power steering fluid plays an important and specific role in keeping your car operating at peak performance. This fluid is critical for providing the steering system with hydraulic assistance so you can turn your vehicle\u2019s steering wheel easily. It also helps lubricate the power steering pump and the steering components. Power steering fluid even prevents corrosion. Because this fluid serves various purposes, you can see why it\u2019s important to use the right kind. [1]<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where is the power steering fluid located?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When you\u2019re looking for the power steering fluid under the hood, check the passenger side of the vehicle, and you should be able to spot the reservoir. The power steering fluid is usually in a white or yellow container with a black cap labeled \u201cpower steering\u201d or \u201csteering fluid.\u201d [1]<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to check power steering fluid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you hear a whining sound coming from your hood when you turn or if it\u2019s becoming more difficult to turn, your car might be running low on power steering fluid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before checking your car\u2019s power steering fluid, warm the engine to a normal operating temperature by turning the steering wheel in one direction until it stops. Next, turn the wheel all the way in the opposite direction. Repeat this process several times, then follow the steps below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. Turn off the engine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Wipe the power steering reservoir and cap clean with a cloth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Check the dipstick attached to the reservoir to see the fluid level, then wipe it clean.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. If the fluid level is below the MIN line, add new fluid, careful not to exceed the MAX line.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Examine the quality of fluid in the reservoir. [2]<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    What color is the fluid?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Most power steering fluid is red, amber, pink, or clear. If the fluid is lighter, it doesn\u2019t contain any debris and is okay to use. It likely needs to be changed if it\u2019s dark brown or foamy. [1]<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    What does power steering fluid do?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in the steering system to decrease the effort required to turn the wheels. It also lubricates the moving parts within the steering system and prevents corrosion in the power steering gear to keep the vehicle working optimally. [1]<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    How often do I need to replace the power steering fluid?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    On average, your car needs a power steering fluid flush every 40,000 to 80,000 miles. Your recommended flush routine depends on your vehicle because the steering system and fluid needs vary by car. Check your owner\u2019s manual for specific manufacturer recommendations. [3]<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Can you drive without it?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    When you drive without power steering fluid, you need to exert more force when turning the wheel, and the steering is much heavier. If you wait a long time before filling your car with power steering fluid, damage to the steering pump becomes inevitable. When the pump vanes lack lubrication, the risk of damaging the drive belt increases. The shaft and rack seal can also break down without power steering fluid. [4]<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Cons of driving without fluid:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n