Where is the power steering fluid in a Ford?

In most Ford vehicles with hydraulic power steering, the fluid lives in a small reservoir in the engine bay, typically on the passenger side near the firewall. Many newer Ford models use electric power steering and do not have a fluid reservoir at all.

Understanding Ford power steering systems

Ford has largely shifted to electric power steering (EPAS) in many models, which eliminates the need for a fluid reservoir. If your model uses hydraulic PS, the reservoir will be present and accessible for inspection and topping up. When in doubt, check the owner's manual or under-hood labels for the exact system type and fluid specification.

Where hydraulic power steering reservoirs are typically found

In cars with hydraulic PS, the reservoir is usually a small, translucent tank with a cap labeled Power Steering Fluid. It’s commonly located on the passenger side of the engine bay near the firewall, but some trucks place it by the power steering pump at the front of the engine bay.

Common locations to check include:

• Passenger-side engine bay near the firewall


• Beside the power steering pump along the front of the engine


• Near the radiator support on some trucks and SUVs

Always confirm by looking for the PS cap or the label on the reservoir and refer to your vehicle’s manual for the exact location and fluid type.

Check and refill guidance for hydraulic PS

Use this guide when your Ford still uses hydraulic power steering and you need to check or add fluid.

1. With the engine off and the vehicle on level ground, locate the power steering fluid reservoir (look for a cap labeled Power Steering Fluid with a steering wheel icon).


2. Wipe the cap area clean to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir, then remove the cap.


3. Check the fluid level against the min and max marks on the reservoir or dipstick.


4. If the level is low, add the recommended power steering fluid specified in your owner's manual, using a clean funnel to avoid spills. Do not mix with other fluids unless the manual allows it.


5. Reinstall the cap, start the engine, and slowly rotate the steering wheel from lock to lock a few times to distribute the fluid.


6. Recheck the level and top up if necessary, ensuring you stay between the min and max marks. Do not overfill.


7. Inspect for leaks and signs of contamination. If the fluid looks dark or has a burnt smell, or you hear whining from the pump, seek a mechanic’s assistance.

Note: If your Ford uses electric power steering (EPAS), there is no fluid reservoir and the system is maintained differently, often via computer diagnostics or no routine fluid checks.

Summary

Most modern Ford vehicles use electric power steering, which means no fluid reservoir to inspect or top up. For models that still rely on hydraulic power steering, the reservoir is typically found in the engine bay on the passenger side near the firewall, and you should use the fluid specified by Ford in the owner's manual. Regular checks and proper maintenance help prevent steering issues and leaks. When in doubt, consult your owner's manual or a dealership for model-specific guidance.

Where do you put power steering fluid in a Ford F-150?

The power steering fluid reservoir is usually on the passenger side of the engine bay, though its exact location depends on the model year. It is a translucent or metal cylinder with a cap labeled "Power Steering Fluid". On newer models with Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), there is no fluid reservoir.
 
This video demonstrates where to find the power steering reservoir on a 2008 Ford F-150: 43sThomas Fix ItYouTube · Feb 15, 2022

• Check the engine bay: Open the hood and look for a plastic or metal container, often on the passenger side, with a cap labeled "Power Steering Fluid". 
• Trace the hoses: If you can't find a reservoir, look for the power steering pump. The reservoir will be connected to it by rubber hoses. 
• Verify your model: Some newer F-150s, like the 2011 model, have Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) and do not have a power steering fluid reservoir at all. 

How do I locate my power steering fluid?

Your power steering fluid container will be on or around your engine and can usually be identified by its black cap and white or yellow reservoir. Every car is different, however, so it always helps to check your owner's manual to make sure you've found it.

Where is the power steering fluid on a Ford?

The Ford power steering fluid reservoir is typically located under the hood, near the engine, and is a translucent container with a cap that is often labeled "Power Steering" or has a steering wheel icon. To find it, open the hood and look for a small, possibly white or yellow, plastic tank on the driver's side or front of the engine bay, sometimes near the radiator or coolant reservoir.
 
This video shows the location of the power steering fluid reservoir in a Ford F-350: 59s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · May 22, 2019
How to locate the power steering reservoir

• Pop the hood: Open the hood of your Ford vehicle. 
• Look for the reservoir: It's usually a small, translucent plastic container with a cap on it, located in the engine bay. 
• Find the markings: The cap will likely have a symbol of a steering wheel or the words "Power Steering" on it. 
• Consider the location: It is frequently on the driver's side or front of the engine bay, often near the radiator or coolant reservoir. 
• Check your owner's manual: If you are still unsure, consult your owner's manual for the exact location. 

This video shows the location of the power steering fluid reservoir in a Ford F-150: 1mInsane OilYouTube · Jun 4, 2014

Where is the power steering reservoir on a 2011 Ford F150?

The 2011 F-150 does not have a power steering fluid reservoir because it uses an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system. If you are experiencing issues with power steering, you should check fuses, wiring, and the EPAS motor, not look for a fluid reservoir.
 
This video shows the location of the EPAS motor and related components: 56s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jan 19, 2018

• System Type: The 2011 F-150 was one of the first to use an EPAS system as standard on many models, which does not use hydraulic fluid. 
• Troubleshooting: If your steering is hard or fails, check the dedicated power steering fuse and relays in the fuse box first. 
• Other Checks: You should also inspect the electrical wiring for damage or corrosion and consider a faulty EPAS motor or torque sensor. 
• Resetting the System: A simple reset by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes may resolve some issues. 
• When to Seek Professional Help: If the problem persists, professional diagnostics with a scan tool are recommended to identify and fix the specific electrical issue.