How do I know if my power steering fluid is low?

Yes. Common signs of low power steering fluid include a stiff or hard-to-turn steering wheel, a whining or groaning noise when you turn, and a low fluid level indicated on the reservoir. If you notice these symptoms, check the fluid and top up with the recommended type if needed.

Recognizing the signs

Watch for symptoms that often accompany low power steering fluid. These indicators can appear gradually or suddenly, especially as the vehicle ages or after a leak.

• Hard or stiff steering, especially at parking speeds or when turning at low speeds


• Whining, groaning, or squealing noises from the front of the vehicle when turning


• Visible fluid leaks under the car near the power steering pump or along hoses


• Fluid level showing below the MIN mark on the reservoir or a noticeably low reservoir


• Power steering warning light on the dash


• Fluid that looks dark, dirty, or has a burnt smell

If you notice any of these signs, address the issue promptly. Driving with very low fluid can damage the pump and steering rack over time.

Checking the power steering fluid level

Use these steps to check the level and appearance of your power steering fluid. Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific guidance, since some vehicles require the engine to be running or to check the level with the wheel turned.

1. Park on a level surface and set the parking brake. In many cars, check with the engine off and the vehicle cold; some brands require the engine running to gauge the level accurately.


2. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir and its cap. Look for MIN/MAX marks on the reservoir or a dipstick on the cap.


3. If your reservoir has a dipstick, remove the cap, wipe the dipstick clean, reinsert it, and pull it out to read the level. If there are side marks, visually check that the fluid sits between the MIN and MAX lines.


4. If the level is below the MIN line, or fluid is visibly low, plan to top up with the recommended fluid type for your vehicle.


5. If the level is very low or you see fresh leaks, avoid driving long distances and have the system inspected by a professional.

Note: The exact reading method can vary by model. Some vehicles require the engine to be running and the wheel turned a few times to circulate fluid; others require the engine off. Always follow the manual’s instructions for your car.

Top up safely and correctly

Top up only with the fluid type specified by your manufacturer. Using the wrong fluid can damage seals and reduce steering performance. Here’s how to do it carefully.

1. Check your owner’s manual or the reservoir cap to confirm the correct power steering fluid type. Many cars require specific PSF or even ATF in certain models; never mix fluids.


2. With the engine off and the vehicle level, remove the cap and set it aside where it won’t contaminate the fluid.


3. Slowly add the recommended fluid, keeping an eye on the MAX line. Do not fill above the max mark.


4. Replace the cap securely and, if advised, start the engine and slowly turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to bleed air from the system.


5. Check the level again with the engine running (if your manual permits) and add a little more if necessary, staying within the indicated range.


6. If the fluid level drops quickly after topping up, there may be a leak or a failing component that requires professional service.

After topping up, test drive slowly and monitor for any new noises, resistance, or warning lights. If symptoms persist, seek a diagnosis to prevent damage to the pump or rack.

Leaks and maintenance

Low fluid is often a sign of a leak. Here’s how to assess and respond to leaks or ongoing low levels.

• Look for puddles or damp spots under the car, especially near the power steering pump, hoses, and rack.


• Inspect hoses for cracks, bulges, or loose clamps. Tighten clamps if they’re just slightly loose, but replace damaged hoses.


• Check the reservoir for cracks or a loose cap that could allow air in or fluid to escape.


• Monitor the fluid’s color. Fresh PSF is typically red or pink; very dark or dirty fluid may indicate it needs replacement.


• Have a professional diagnose persistent loss of fluid to avoid pump or rack damage.

Addressing leaks quickly helps prevent more extensive (and expensive) repairs down the line.

Hydraulic vs. electric power steering: does it matter?

Many older vehicles and some still-running models use hydraulic power steering (HPS) that relies on a fluid reservoir and a belt-driven pump. Modern vehicles may use electric power steering (EPAS) or a combination known as electro-hydraulic power steering. In EPAS systems, there is typically no fluid to check.

Hydraulic power steering

If your car uses hydraulic power steering, fluid checks and top-ups are part of routine maintenance. Follow the owner’s manual for the correct fluid type and check intervals. Symptoms of low fluid in hydraulic systems include stiff steering and noises, as described above.

Electric power steering

In electric systems, the steering assistance is provided by an electric motor rather than a pump driven by the engine. These systems do not use traditional power steering fluid, so no reservoir or dipstick is present. Warning lights or steering irregularities may indicate electrical or sensor problems rather than fluid issues. If you’re unsure which system your vehicle uses, consult the owner’s manual or a qualified technician.

Summary

Low power steering fluid can make steering heavy, produce noises, or show warning lights. Regularly check the reservoir level and fluid condition, top up with the correct fluid type if needed, and inspect for leaks. If symptoms persist after topping up, or you notice a rapid drop in fluid level, have the system inspected by a professional to prevent pump or rack damage. Remember to differentiate between hydraulic and electric power steering to determine whether fluid checks apply to your vehicle.

Will a light come on for low power steering fluid?

A low power steering fluid warning light means the power steering fluid is low, which is often caused by a leak. You should immediately pull over to a safe location, check the fluid level, and add more if needed. If the light stays on or the problem returns, have your system checked by a mechanic to address any leaks or other issues, as driving without proper power steering is dangerous.
 
Immediate action
This video explains what to do when the power steering warning light comes on: 58sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Nov 8, 2022

1. Safely pull over: Find a safe spot to stop your vehicle as soon as possible. 
2. Check the fluid level: Locate the power steering reservoir in the engine bay and check the fluid level. It may have a steering wheel symbol on the cap. 
3. Add fluid if low: If the fluid is below the "MIN" line, add the correct type of power steering fluid in small amounts, checking the level after each addition. Do not overfill past the "MAX" line. 
4. Restart the engine: Replace the cap, and restart your car. The light should turn off. 

What to do if the light returns or persists

• Look for leaks: Check the hoses, connections, and the area under the car for any signs of fluid pooling. 
• Inspect the belt: Check the power steering belt for any signs of wear, damage, or loose tension. A worn belt can cause the light to come on. 
• Consult a mechanic: If the light comes back on after refilling, or if you are uncomfortable checking the fluid yourself, have a professional diagnose the system. It's a critical safety issue. 

Can I just add more power steering fluid?

Yes, you can add more power steering fluid if the level is low, but you should first check for leaks. To do so, turn off the engine, locate the power steering reservoir, wipe it clean, and check the fluid level against the "MIN" and "MAX" lines. If it's low, slowly add the correct type of fluid to reach the "MAX" line and then replace the cap securely. 
This video demonstrates how to check and add power steering fluid: 57sYourMechanicYouTube · Jun 1, 2016
Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: Always use the specific type of fluid recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual to avoid damage to the system. 
• Look for leaks: If the fluid is low, it indicates a leak somewhere in the system. While adding fluid is a temporary fix, you should look for damaged hoses or seals and have a professional check it to prevent more serious and expensive damage later. 
• Do not overfill: Overfilling the reservoir can cause leaks and damage. Only add fluid until it reaches the "MAX" line. 
• Old fluid can cause problems: Over time, power steering fluid can become dirty and thick, which can damage steering components. If the fluid is dark or smells burnt, it may be time for a full fluid change rather than just topping it off. 

This video explains why it's important to change power steering fluid: 49sScotty KilmerYouTube · Feb 14, 2022

What happens if your power steering fluid is low?

If your power steering fluid is low, you'll experience difficulty steering, unusual noises like whining or squealing, and a jerky or vibrating steering wheel. Ignoring the problem can cause expensive damage to the power steering pump and other components due to overheating and increased friction. It's best to top off the fluid and check for leaks as soon as possible to avoid potential accidents from sudden steering failure.
 
What happens when power steering fluid is low

• Difficulty steering: The steering wheel will feel stiff and require more effort to turn, especially at low speeds or when parking. 
• Strange noises: You may hear whining, groaning, or squealing sounds when you turn the wheel. This is often caused by air in the system. 
• Jerky or inconsistent steering: The steering wheel may feel like it's skipping or resisting randomly, which can be a safety hazard. 
• Vibrations: You might feel vibrations in the steering wheel, particularly when turning. 
• Dashboard warning light: Some vehicles may have a power steering warning light that illuminates when the fluid level is low. 
• Leaks: A fluid leak can be indicated by stains of reddish or light brown fluid under the car. 

Why this is a problem

• Expensive damage: Driving with low fluid can cause the power steering pump to overheat and fail, which can be very costly to replace. 
• Safety risk: Insufficient fluid can lead to a sudden loss of power assist, making the steering wheel extremely hard to turn and potentially causing you to lose control of the vehicle. 

How can you tell if you need more power 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.