Most vehicles use a hydraulic power steering system. With the power, your steering system consists of various complex components that allow you to easily control your vehicle. One of the most important parts of your steering system is the power steering, which makes your vehicle much easier to turn through the use of hydraulic pressure that alleviates much of the vehicle’s weight during cornering.
What Does Power Steering Fluid Do?
Power steering fluid is essential for a properly functioning steering system. It reduces the effort needed to turn the car and lubricates moving parts in the system to ensure your vehicle runs as smoothly as possible.
Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS)
Hydraulic power steering uses pressurized power steering fluid from the power steering pump to decrease overall steering effort.
Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS)
The Electro-hydraulic steering system utilizes an electric motor to drive the hydraulic power steering pump instead of a serpentine belt. The hydraulic pump is powered by an electric motor that sends pressurized fluid to a rack that’ll assist you when turning the wheels. The pump motor works off the vehicle’s electrical system.
Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Electric power steering eliminates hydraulics and pressurized fluid from the system entirely, helping the car easier to turn, and save fuel making electric power steering favored by drivers.
Types of Power Steering Fluid
When it comes to what power steering fluid to use, it primarily depends on your vehicle’s power steering system. There are three main types of fluid available. Each of these fluids is designed to work a specific way in select systems. If you put the incorrect power steering fluid in your vehicle, it can cause damage to your steering system. It’s important to know what type of power steering fluid your vehicle needs to take care of the system.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF):
Commonly, older vehicles will use transmission fluid in their power steering systems. While having good lubricating properties, it isn’t specifically formulated for steering systems.
Dedicated Power Steering Fluid:
Designed specifically for power steering systems with additives that protect seals, prevent foaming, and resist breaking down under high temperatures.
Synthetic Power Steering Fluid:
With superior performance in extreme conditions, synthetic fluids generally last longer and maintain their properties better than other conventional power steering fluids, which could extend change intervals.
When Do I Need to Change My Power Steering Fluid?
The answer to when your power steering system requires replacement comes down to a variety of factors, from the type of steering system and fluid to to the way the vehicle’s been driven over the years.
In general, it’s a good idea to have yours replaced between every 40,000-100,000 miles. While this is a big range, power steering fluid can experience degradation early and it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for the following signs of bad fluid.
Signs Your Vehicle’s Power Steering Fluid Needs to be Changed.
- Change in Fluid Color
- Contaminated Fluid
- Inconsistent Steering Response
- Steering Wheel Vibration
- Consistently Low Fluid Level
Power Steering Services in Florissant.
At Gary’s Auto Service in Florissant, we understand how important the benefits of power steering are to your driving experience. If you notice issues or unusual feelings when turning the steering wheel, you should have your steering system inspected by a professional as soon as you can to avoid the possibility of further damage. Our ASE-certified technicians at Gary’s Auto Service have extensive training and experience to provide quality steering inspection and repair.