Is it OK to change power steering fluid?
Yes, it is generally recommended to change your power steering fluid periodically. Power steering fluid helps lubricate the power steering system and maintain proper operation, so changing it at the recommended intervals can help extend the life of your vehicle's power steering components.
Why Should You Change Power Steering Fluid?
Over time, power steering fluid can break down and become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness. Changing the fluid at the manufacturer-recommended intervals helps ensure the power steering system continues to function properly and prevents premature wear on components like the power steering pump and steering rack.
- Fluid Breakdown: Power steering fluid is exposed to high temperatures and pressures, which can cause it to degrade over time. This can lead to a loss of lubrication and increased wear on the system.
- Contamination: Dirt, moisture, and other contaminants can get into the power steering system, causing damage to components and reducing the fluid's effectiveness.
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Most vehicle manufacturers recommend changing the power steering fluid at specific mileage or time intervals, such as every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or every 2-3 years.
Changing the power steering fluid as recommended can help maintain the proper operation of your vehicle's power steering system and prevent costly repairs down the line.
How to Change Power Steering Fluid
Changing the power steering fluid typically involves the following steps:
- Locate the power steering fluid reservoir, usually under the hood near the power steering pump.
- Drain the old fluid by removing the reservoir cap and using a fluid transfer pump or siphon to extract the old fluid.
- Refill the reservoir with the recommended type and amount of new power steering fluid, as specified in your vehicle's owner's manual.
- Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to circulate the new fluid.
- Check the fluid level and top it off if necessary, being careful not to overfill the reservoir.
It's important to use the correct type of power steering fluid, as specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Using the wrong fluid can damage the power steering system.
Conclusion
Changing your power steering fluid at the recommended intervals is an important maintenance task that can help extend the life of your vehicle's power steering system. By following the proper procedures and using the correct fluid, you can help ensure your power steering continues to function smoothly and reliably.
How long can you go without changing power steering fluid?
This is one thing that many auto professionals don't entirely agree on is how frequently power steering fluid should be flushed. The service should be done about every two years, we, at Stamey Performance, recommend that this service should be done about every 75,000 to 100,000 miles.
How much does a power steering fluid change cost?
What Is the Cost of a Power Steering Flush? The cost of a power steering flush is between $100 and $300. The exact cost comes down to your vehicle type and age. Extra service will also attract extra costs.
Can you put new power steering fluid on top of old?
The “Poor Man's” Power Steering Flush
Use a fluid extractor or turkey baster to remove the old power steering fluid from the reservoir. Top it off with new fluid, start the vehicle and turn the wheel from lock to lock a few times.
How do I know if I need to replace power steering fluid?
The power steering fluid should be changed based on your owners manual service section (typically in the back of the book). Symptoms of bad power steering fluid are brown or black fluid, a loud power steering pump, and having a hard time turning the steering wheel.
Can I just add power steering fluid without flushing?
Since there is no filter in your power steering system, the only way to remove these small particles is to remove the power steering fluid and add new, clean fluid. This is called flushing the power steering system.
Can I mix old power steering fluid with new?
Yes, you can mix old and new power steering fluid, you will just need to run the system for a while. The old fluid you are now putting into your power steering reservoir is going to be diluted by the new fresh fluid you just added.
Do you really need to change your power steering fluid?
On average, vehicles need a power steering fluid flush every 40,000-80,000 miles. In some cases, manufacturer recommendations can go even higher or lower than this range. Your recommended flush routine depends heavily on your type of vehicle—as the steering system and fluid needs can vary.
Can I just refill my power steering fluid?
If the fluid is below the “MIN” line, remove the cap (or leave the dipstick out) and add power steering fluid in small amounts, checking the level after each time. Don't fill it above the “MAX” line. Replace the cap or dipstick, and make sure it's sealed tight.
How many years does power steering fluid last?
between two and three years
Most power steering fluid will last between two and three years or between 50,000 and 75,000 miles. It isn't just a matter of replacing it, however. According to Ganther, “It should be flushed. Some manufacturers will give you a specific time, or it can be gauged through a visual inspection.
Is a power steering flush worth it?
Yes, even newer vehicles can benefit from regular power steering fluid flush to maintain peak performance and prevent premature wear on steering components.
