Power Steering Fluid Maintenance

Simply withdraw only the fluid that's readily accessible in its small reservoir, and replace that portion with fresh fluid. You'll be doing this several times over a week or so until the fluid color looks normal. To use this technique, you first have to acquire the proper tool. It's sold as a "fluid removal/transfer tool" or battery filler, and resembles a turkey baster (but that's made of different materials, so don't use one of those from your kitchen). You'll also need to purchase the proper type and amount of fluid as indicated in your manual. Older vehicles use automatic transmission fluid, but later-model vehicles use some form of mineral-based fluid with a "universal" type fluid sufficing as a replacement. Other vehicles, such as Honda and Mercedes-Benz, require a very specific type of fluid.


Next, locate the reservoir and remove the filler cap/dipstick. Withdraw what fluid you can with your newfound "fluid removal tool," being careful not to slop, spritz, or squirt the fluid carelessly on the engine. If you do, immediately and thoroughly clean the spill up with a shop towel. Dispose of the used fluid responsibly, as you would do with used motor oil. Now, fill the reservoir up to the recommended mark on the dipstick ("cold" or "hot") and then start the engine. Cycle the steering from left to right a couple of times, and do a final check and correction of the level.

Final Check
If the fluid is only somewhat darker than new—but not dark brown—you can perform this procedure on consecutive weekends (or a little more often, if you can't stand the suspense!) until you get the desired "good as new" fluid appearance. If the fluid is dark brown or black that indicates a serious system contamination (likely due to breakdown of internal rubber parts or hoses) and more extensive repairs are called for. In this case, solvent flushing is not recommended, as it won't stop the internal breakdown described, and will likely make it worse.


Just as with fluid maintenance for your cooling system and transmission, it's not necessary to change all of the power steering system's fluid to keep it in good condition—as long as it's being done before visible deterioration occurs.

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