Virtually all modern vehicles have power steering and the majority are still hydraulic. These systems are reliable and easy to keep that way with a few simple tips.
Basic hydraulic power steering consist of only a few parts. There is a pump which supplies pressure, a steering gear which is powered by the pressure and hoses that connect it all. There is also power steering fluid which is the life-blood of the system. Keeping the fluid fresh can help prevent having to replace the expensive parts.
Power steering fluid cools, cleans, lubricates, conditions seals and transmits the hydraulic force used to assist steering. With so many requirements it is no wonder there are a number of formulations on the market. Many vehicle manufactures utilize specialized fluid. These fluids are designed to work in specific systems and usually give the best results.
There are also a number of system that use automatic transmission fluid for power steering. These systems will normally use the words "Use automatic transmission fluid," Use Dexron" or "Use Mercon" written on the fill cap or in the owner’s manual. Automatic transmission fluid is fine for the systems designed to work with it, but should never be used in a system that calls for power steering fluid.
Dexron and Mercon are types of automatic transmission fluid. Years ago, Dexron was primarily for General Motors and Mercon was intended for Ford. With regard to power steering the names are basically interchangeable today. For instance Dexron will meet Mercon specifications and vice versa. Synthetic automatic transmission fluid will also exceed both specifications.
Due to a huge number of factors, no guide can replace individual manufacturers recommendations. The following is a general guide but should be verified for specific applications. When in doubt, the manufacture specific fluid (*) should be used.
Make
Model
Fluid Type
Acura
All models
Honda P/S fluid *
Dodge, Chrysler
After 1998
ATF+4
Dodge, Chrysler
Before 1998
P/S fluid
Chrysler
Crossfire
Chrysler fluid *
Daewoo
All models
Dexron III
Dodge
Sprinter
Chrysler P/S fluid *
Ford
All models
Mercon
General Motors
All models
P/S fluid
Honda
All models
Honda P/S fluid *
Hyundai
Verify models
Dexron III
Jeep
2005 up
Chrysler P/S fluid *
Jeep
2006 up Commander
Chrysler P/S fluid *
Jeep
After 1998
ATF + 4 *
Jeep
Before 2005 Grand Cherokee
P/S fluid
Jeep
Before 1998 all models
P/S fluid
Infinity
All models
Dexron III
Isuzu
All models
Dexron III
Kia
Verify model
Dexron III
Lexus
All models
Dexron III
Lincoln, Mercury
All models
Mercon
Mazda
All models
Dexron III
Mitsubishi
Verify model
Dexron III or P/S fluid
Nissan
Before 1994
Dexron III
Nissan
1994 up
Nissan P/S fluid *
Saturn
All models
P/S fluid
Scion
All models
Dexron III
Subaru
All models
Dexron III
Suzuki
All models
Dexron III
Toyota
All models
Dexron III
Most power steering problems involve leakage. Over time, seals get hard and debris wears away at the sealing surfaces. Both problems are made far worse by dirty power steering fluid with depleted additives. Replacing power steering fluid is very easy and can prevent a great many problems.
There are only a few cautions to be observed, but they are VERY important. First is to use only the correct fluid. This will normally be listed on the fill cap or in the owners manual.
Second is to be certain to locate the proper fill point. There are several reservoirs under the hood. Mistakes like adding power steering fluid to the brake system can cause immense damage almost immediately. Look for the words Power Steering on the cap.
Lastly, power steering fluid is flammable and under great pressure. I never recommend removing any of the hoses to replace the fluid. Instead a simple partial fluid replacement method is as effective and much safer.
A couple of very simple tools and the proper fluid are all that are needed. Replacing all of the fluid is unnecessary. Simply drawing a measured amount of old fluid from the reservoir and replacing it with fresh fluid works very well.
With the engine off, remove the power steering cap. Draw out as much fluid as can easily be removed and measure that amount with the cup. Clean the cup and add the same amount of fresh fluid that was removed. Add this amount to the power steering reservoir.
Bleeding works best with the front wheels raised slighlty off the ground. Safely block the vehicle in the raised position. Replace the cap, and without starting the engine and slowly steer from right to left about ten times. This allows the fresh fluid to circulate through the system. Now start the engine and repeat. Turn off the engine and check the fluid level.
Repeating the above process more than once will remove even more of the old fluid, but a complete replacement is usually unnecessary. A partial replacement every two years will normally keep the additives replenished and keep the fluid fairly clean.
The partial fluid replacement method is easy, inexpensive and can help prevent several power steering problems. The key is not to wait until there is a problem. Early preventative action can save quite a bit.
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