Does my car have power steering fluid?

Power steering fluid is only relevant if your vehicle uses hydraulic power steering. Many modern cars rely on electric power steering (EPS) and have no reservoir or fluid to check. To determine which system your car uses, consult the owner’s manual and inspect the engine bay for a reservoir labeled Power Steering or PSF. If you locate a reservoir and cap, you likely have hydraulic power steering; if not, your car probably uses EPS.

Is your car hydraulic-powered or electric-assisted?

Use these checks to identify the type of power steering system in your car so you know whether you should be checking or topping up a fluid. Look for a fluid reservoir, a belt-driven power steering pump, and hydraulic hoses, or search the manual for the system description.

• Check the owner's manual or the manufacturer’s website for the power steering system type (hydraulic vs. electric).


• Look under the hood for a dedicated power steering fluid reservoir, often labeled "Power Steering" or "PSF" and marked with Min/Max levels.


• If you see a belt-driven hydraulic pump with hoses running to the steering rack and a reservoir, you’re likely dealing with hydraulic PSF.


• If you cannot locate any reservoir or pump, and the manual states "electric power steering" (EPS) or you sense little to no resistance when turning, your car most likely uses EPS and does not require PSF.


• Be aware that a few models use electric-assisted hydraulic steering, which can still involve a reservoir; confirm with the manual or dealer if unsure.

Conclusion: The presence of a PSF reservoir and pump generally means hydraulic power steering; the absence of a reservoir or a note about EPS means no PSF is involved. Always verify with the manual or a dealer if you’re uncertain.

How to check and top up hydraulic power steering fluid

For vehicles with hydraulic steering, follow these steps to safely check the fluid level and top up as needed using the correct fluid.

• Park on level ground and turn off the engine. Open the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir.


• With the cap off, check the fluid level against the min and max marks on the reservoir or using the dipstick if your car uses one. If the level is below minimum, you’ll need to add fluid.


• Use the fluid type specified by the manufacturer (many cars use ATF Dexron VI or Dexron II/III, while some require a manufacturer-specific power steering fluid). Do not mix fluids unless the manual allows it.


• Add the fluid slowly in small amounts, checking the level frequently to avoid overfilling. Wipe up any spills immediately.


• Replace the cap, start the engine, and gently turn the steering wheel from lock to lock a few times to circulate the new fluid. Recheck the level when the engine is off and cold.


• Inspect for leaks around the reservoir, hoses, and pump. If you see leaks or the fluid won’t hold at the proper level, have the system inspected by a professional.

Conclusion: Use only the correct PSF for your vehicle and avoid overfilling or contaminating the fluid. If in doubt, consult the owner's manual or a qualified technician.

If your car uses electric power steering (EPS)

Many newer vehicles rely on electric power steering and do not have a fluid reservoir. Do not attempt to top up or replace fluid in EPS systems, as doing so can damage electrical components. If you notice steering problems, look for EPS indicators such as a warning light on the dashboard, a battery/charging issue, or unusual steering feel.

• No reservoir or fluid level to check in most EPS systems; fluid is not part of the operation.


• Common EPS problems are electrical: failed sensors, wiring faults, or motor issues; battery and alternator health can also affect EPS performance.


• If you experience intermittent steering or warning lights, consult the vehicle’s manual and have a technician diagnose with appropriate OBD-II codes and electrical tests.

Conclusion: If your car has EPS, avoid adding PSF. Seek professional service for steering issues, since EPS is controlled by sensors and electronics rather than fluid pressure.

Bottom line and quick tips

Rules of thumb: If you have a fluid reservoir labeled "Power Steering," your system is hydraulic and needs PSF when low. If there’s no reservoir and the manual mentions EPS, you have electric power steering and no PSF to manage.

Summary

Power steering fluid matters only for hydraulic systems. To know yours, check your owner’s manual and look under the hood for a PSF reservoir. If you have hydraulic PS, follow safe checking and topping steps using the manufacturer’s specified fluid. If your car uses electric power steering, there is generally no fluid to check, and steering issues point to electrical or mechanical problems rather than fluid. When in doubt, consult your dealer or a qualified technician.

How do I tell if my car has power steering fluid?

Here's a guide to checking there's enough fluid in the system. First, you'll need to open the bonnet and locate the power steering fluid reservoir, which should be marked 'steering' or have a steering wheel icon. If the capsule is see-through, wipe any dirt away so you can clearly see whether a top up is needed.

How do I tell if my car needs steering fluid?

You can tell you need power steering fluid by experiencing stiff or jerky steering, hearing whining or groaning noises when turning the wheel, and by seeing fluid leaks under your car. A dashboard warning light can also indicate a problem. 
This video explains the symptoms of low power steering fluid: 56sTA Automotive technologyYouTube · Feb 6, 2025
Common signs of low power steering fluid

• Difficulty steering: The steering wheel feels heavy, stiff, or requires extra effort to turn, especially at low speeds. 
• Unusual noises: You may hear whining, groaning, or squealing sounds, which can be caused by air in the system. 
• Jerky or inconsistent steering: The wheel feels like it's vibrating or skipping as you turn. 
• Dashboard warning light: Some vehicles have a specific power steering warning light that will illuminate. 
• Leaks: Reddish or brownish fluid puddles or stains on the ground where you park can indicate a leak. 
• Burning smell: A burning odor, similar to burning oil, can be a sign of fluid overheating. 

This video shows how to check power steering fluid: 1mTodd's GarageYouTube · Aug 19, 2021
What to do

• Check your power steering fluid level. 
• If the level is low, identify the color of your current fluid. 
• Use the correct type of power steering fluid for your vehicle to top it off or have a mechanic inspect the system. 
• If you find a leak, get the system inspected to fix the leak before it becomes a bigger problem. 

Can I just refill my power steering fluid?

Yes, you can just add power steering fluid if the level is low, but you should check for leaks and use the correct type of fluid for your vehicle. If the fluid is not just low but has been consistently low, it indicates a leak that needs to be repaired.
 
This video demonstrates how to check the power steering fluid level: 34sTA Automotive technologyYouTube · Feb 6, 2025
How to add power steering fluid

1. Locate the reservoir: Find the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood. It is often marked with "Power Steering" or a steering wheel icon. 
2. Check the fluid level: With the engine off, check the dipstick or the indicator on the reservoir to see if the fluid is below the "MIN" or "COLD" line. 
3. Add the correct fluid: If the level is low, add the manufacturer-recommended power steering fluid in small amounts, checking the level as you go. Do not overfill past the "MAX" or "HOT" line. 
4. Bleed air (if needed): If the system was empty, you may need to start the car and turn the steering wheel from full left to full right a few times to bleed out any air. Then, re-check the fluid level and top off if necessary. 
5. Address leaks: If you have to add fluid frequently, there is likely a leak that needs to be addressed by a mechanic. You should get the system checked to find and repair the leak. 

Do all vehicles have power steering fluid?

Power Steering Fluid
It also keeps the moving parts in the system lubricated and ensures the hoses, pistons, valves, and power steering pump work as intended. Only cars with hydraulic power steering systems use power steering fluid.