What power steering fluid does an Acura take?
When it comes to maintaining your Acura, using the correct power steering fluid is essential for ensuring smooth steering performance and prolonging the life of your vehicle's power steering system. In this article, we’ll explore the type of power steering fluid recommended for Acura vehicles and why it’s important to use the right one.
Why the Right Power Steering Fluid Matters
Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transmits power in your vehicle's steering system, making it easier to turn the wheel. Using the wrong type of fluid can lead to poor steering performance, increased wear on components, and even damage to the power steering pump or rack. Acura vehicles, like many other brands, have specific requirements for power steering fluid to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Recommended Power Steering Fluid for Acura
Acura vehicles are designed to use a specific type of power steering fluid: Acura Genuine Power Steering Fluid. This fluid is specially formulated to meet the unique requirements of Acura's power steering systems. While it may be tempting to use a generic or off-the-shelf fluid, doing so can lead to suboptimal performance or even damage over time.
Can You Use Alternatives?
If Acura Genuine Power Steering Fluid is not readily available, you may use a high-quality, Honda-approved power steering fluid as an alternative. Acura is a division of Honda, and their vehicles share similar engineering standards. However, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual or speak with a trusted mechanic to ensure compatibility.
Steps to Check and Refill Power Steering Fluid
Maintaining the correct level of power steering fluid is just as important as using the right type. Here’s how you can check and refill the fluid in your Acura:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Locate the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood. It is usually labeled and has a cap with a steering wheel icon.
- Check the fluid level against the "MIN" and "MAX" markings on the reservoir.
- If the fluid is low, carefully remove the cap and add Acura Genuine Power Steering Fluid or a Honda-approved alternative until it reaches the proper level.
- Replace the cap securely and wipe away any spilled fluid to prevent damage to other components.
Signs You May Need to Replace Power Steering Fluid
Over time, power steering fluid can degrade or become contaminated, which can affect its performance. Here are some signs that it may be time to replace the fluid:
- Difficulty turning the steering wheel.
- Unusual noises, such as whining or squealing, when turning the wheel.
- Leaking fluid under the vehicle near the steering system.
- Dark or dirty fluid when you check the reservoir.
Conclusion
Using the correct power steering fluid is crucial for maintaining the performance and reliability of your Acura’s steering system. Always opt for Acura Genuine Power Steering Fluid or a Honda-approved alternative to ensure your vehicle operates as intended. If you’re unsure about the type of fluid to use or how to maintain your power steering system, don’t hesitate to consult your owner’s manual or visit a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos for professional assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do acuras need special power steering fluid?
VPS Power Steering Fluid for Honda®/Acura® is a full-synthetic fluid that is specifically formulated for Honda/Acura with dedicated additives to meet the demands of most power steering systems.
Does it matter which power steering fluid I use?
Is power steering fluid universal? Although many cars use the same power steering fluid, it isn't universal. According to Jonathan Ganther, COO and founder of Brakes To Go, “You should always check the owner's manual to see what type of power steering fluid the vehicle takes.
Is ATF OK for power steering fluid?
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the same fluid used inside the automatic transmission. ATF can also be used in some power steering systems. Some ATF types include Dexron and Mercon. Synthetic power steering fluid is a non-oil-based fluid created in a lab.
Can I use Prestone power steering fluid in my Acura?
Engineered for use in Asian vehicle manufacturers: Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Nissan, Infiniti, Kia, Hyundai, Subaru, Mazda, Suzuki and others. This full-synthetic fluid provides longer life and is fortified with an advanced additive package that helps prevent corrosion.
Is it OK to mix different power steering fluid?
You may be able to in an emergency, but it's not a good idea. Even if they're both the same spec, each manufacturer has their own formulation and viscosity ranges, it can cause problems, and in extreme cases, can be dangerous (i.e. the system fails suddenly when you need to swerve out of the way).
What kind of power steering fluid does a 2008 Acura MDX take?
The 2008 Acura MDX power steering fluid type is autozone Honda power steering fluid. The power steering fluid needs to be changed every 75,000 miles. Along with changing fluids, You will come across noises from steering parts.
Do Acuras need special power steering fluid?
VPS Power Steering Fluid for Honda®/Acura® is a full-synthetic fluid that is specifically formulated for Honda/Acura with dedicated additives to meet the demands of most power steering systems.
Is Honda and Acura power steering fluid the same?
LUBEGARD® COMPLETE™ Synthetic POWER STEERING FLUID FOR HONDA & ACURA IS SUITABLE FOR USE IN THE FOLLOWING APPLICATIONS: Engineered for 2007 and up applications that specifically call for a fully synthetic power steering fluid. Backwards compatible with Honda & Acura vehicles manufactured before 2007.
Does brand matter for power steering fluid?
Yes, they all serve the same primary function — to provide the hydraulic fluid power for your power steering system. But, the devil is in the details, or in this case, the chemical composition. Most car manufacturers specify a particular type of fluid for their vehicles for a reason.
Is there a universal power steering fluid?
BERKEBILE 2+2® Universal Power Steering Fluid is blended with premium oils and proven additive packages to provide excellent performance in power steering systems.
