Keeping your vehicle’s power steering fluid topped off and flushed regularly and replaced is one of the first steps towards assuring that your steering stays in tip top shape and you are driving safely. Your steering system utilizes a hydraulic system to move the force applied in the steering wheel to the wheels, which are supported by the steering rack.
The power steering fluid acts as a transmitter for that force, but one that can deteriorate and degrade over time. Since this vital fluid passes through seals, o-rings, and other rubber parts, there will be some detritus that filters into the steering fluid, causing it to lose necessary cohesion – especially when these small particulates start floating into the steering assembly, which can cause chaos.
Some important factor when choosing your power steering fluid might include:
Brake fluid is not power steering fluid: Brake fluid is different from power steering fluid, so do not confuse the two. They have a unique chemical composition for their needs. While brake fluid also serves to transfer force, confusing the two and using one in place of the other can cause serious damage to your vehicle.
Check your owners manual: Be careful when you’re choosing power steering fluid to pay attention to the recommended viscosity of the fluid that you choose. Your owners manual should give you guidance and direction on what will work best with your particular system.
Synthetic vs mineral: Synthetic power steering fluids are available on the market as well as mineral-based fluids. If you’re living in a colder part of the country, a synthetic fluid might suit better as it does not require a great deal of heat to achieve normal operating temperature.
Assure that you’re getting the right power steering fluid for your car, truck, or SUV so you can stay safely on the road.
YourMechanic supplies top-quality power steering fluid to our certified mobile technicians. We can also change the power steering fluid with fluid that you've purchased. Click here to get a quote and more information on power steering fluid replacement.
