Where is the power steering dipstick located?

In most vehicles with a traditional hydraulic power steering system, the dipstick is either part of the power steering fluid reservoir cap or a separate dipstick attached to the cap. However, many newer cars use sealed systems with no dipstick. The exact location depends on the make, model, and year, so consult the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

Common dipstick locations under the hood

To start, know where to look. Designers place the reservoir in a few standard spots under the hood; identifying the correct one will help you check the level accurately.

• Look for a small plastic reservoir labeled “Power Steering” or marked with a steering wheel icon, usually on the engine bay front on the driver or passenger side.


• On many cars, the reservoir cap contains a built‑in dipstick; the level is read on the dipstick as you remove and reinsert the cap.


• In some designs the reservoir sits near the firewall or along the radiator support; the dipstick may be a separate rod stored inside the cap or a separate tube.


• Several modern vehicles use a sealed reservoir with no dipstick; the level may be indicated by a warning light or checked during routine service rather than by a dipstick.

If you still can’t locate it, refer to the owner’s manual or contact the dealership or a qualified mechanic. Incorrect fluid levels can damage the steering system, so accuracy matters.

Model-specific caveats

Keep in mind that there are exceptions. Some brands consistently use sealed systems with no accessible dipstick, while others offer a dipstick in the cap only on certain trims or engines. Always verify with the manual for your exact model and year.

Sealed systems and no-dipstick designs

Many late-model vehicles forego a traditional dipstick in favor of sealed reservoirs that rely on service indicators or periodic maintenance checks. For these models, you’ll typically:

Use the vehicle’s warning indicators or follow the maintenance schedule in the manual to determine when service is needed. If a low-fluid warning lights up, avoid guessing—arrange professional service to inspect for leaks or issues in the steering system.

How to check or top up power steering fluid

Follow these steps to check and, if needed, top up power steering fluid in vehicles that provide a dipstick or a visible reservoir indicator.

1. Park on level ground and set the parking brake. If the manual specifies, check with the engine warm; in many cars a warm fluid reading is recommended.


2. If the reservoir cap has a built-in dipstick, remove the cap and pull out the dipstick. Wipe it clean, reinsert, and withdraw again to read the level.


3. If there is a separate dipstick, pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert, and pull again to read the level against the MIN and MAX marks.


4. Compare the reading to the marks. If low, add the recommended power steering fluid slowly through the reservoir opening or fill port, using a funnel if needed, and do not overfill.


5. Reinstall the cap securely (or reseal the fill port). Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to circulate the fluid, then recheck the level and adjust if necessary.


6. If the fluid is dark, smells burnt, or you repeatedly have to add fluid, seek service to inspect for leaks or worn components in the steering system.

These steps apply to vehicles that provide a dipstick or a clear fill indicator. If your car uses a sealed system with no dipstick, defer to the manual or a professional for the correct procedure.

Summary

The location of the power steering dipstick varies by vehicle. In many older or traditional hydraulic systems, you’ll find a dipstick at the power steering reservoir cap or a separate dipstick in/near the reservoir. Many newer cars use sealed reservoirs with no dipstick, relying on warning indicators or service intervals. Always consult your owner’s manual to confirm the exact location and the proper fluid specification for your model, and seek professional help if you’re unsure.

Where is my power steering fluid reservoir?

Your power steering fluid reservoir is usually a small, clear container under the hood, often on the driver's side, near the engine. It is typically identified by a cap with a steering wheel symbol on it. For a definitive location, consult your owner's manual.
 
This video shows how to find the power steering reservoir in a car: 54sYour Home GarageYouTube · Nov 29, 2021
Key identifiers

• Location: Under the hood, frequently toward the driver's side of the vehicle, though this can vary. 
• Container: A small, translucent (clear or white) plastic or metal cylinder. 
• Cap: Often black, with a symbol of a steering wheel on it. 

This video explains how to identify the power steering fluid reservoir: 59sClassic Car MaintenanceYouTube · Jun 20, 2025
Before you check

• Make sure the engine is cool before you open the reservoir. 
• Wipe the area around the cap to prevent dirt from falling into the reservoir. 
• If you are unsure, check your owner's manual for the exact location and how to check the fluid level. 

How to check if power steering fluid is low?

To check for low power steering fluid, inspect the reservoir's fluid level against the "MIN" and "MAX" lines, or use the dipstick if the reservoir is opaque. You can also look for symptoms like a whining or groaning noise when turning the wheel, a stiff or jerky steering wheel, or puddles under your car. 
How to visually check the fluid level

1. Locate the reservoir: Open the hood and find the power steering fluid reservoir, which is often marked with a "power steering fluid" label or a steering wheel symbol on its cap. It is usually a plastic container near the engine. 
2. Check the level:
   • For clear reservoirs: The reservoir will have "MIN" and "MAX" lines on the side. The fluid level should be between these lines. 
   • For opaque or metal reservoirs: Use the dipstick. Pull it out, wipe it clean, re-insert it completely, and pull it out again to check the level against the markings on the dipstick. 

How to identify low fluid by symptoms

• Steering difficulty: The steering wheel feels stiff, jerky, or requires extra effort to turn, especially at low speeds. 
• Unusual noises: You hear a whining, groaning, or squealing sound coming from the engine when you turn the wheel. 
• Fluid leaks: There are puddles of fluid on the ground where the car is parked. The fluid is typically reddish or amber, so a colored stain is a giveaway. 
• Dashboard warning light: Some electric power steering systems have a warning light on the dashboard that illuminates when there is an issue. 

What to do next

• If the fluid is low, add the correct type of power steering fluid to the "MAX" line, but do not overfill. 
• If you see signs of a leak or the fluid is very dark and dirty, have the system inspected by a mechanic to check for leaks and potential damage to the power steering pump. 

Where is the dipstick for power steering?

You'll check the fluid level with a dipstick which is usually attached to the cap. On some cars the power steering fluid can only be checked accurately after the engine has run for a brief. Period.

Does power steering have a reservoir?

Every hydraulic power steering system has a fluid reservoir where the fluid accumulates after it has been used to power the steering gear. This reservoir gives the pump a place to pull fluid from, a place for the fluid to cool down and an expansion volume for fluid to expand into as it heats up.