It is also possible that a loose belt is actually responsible for the change in turning or whine, but even so, one place to start is checking your power steering fluid, but this is only relevant if your car has traditional power steering. Many new cars run on electric steering and may not even have a power steering fluid reservoir, a concept “according to some on Firestone, the vast majority of new cars employ electric power steering system, some of these contain power steering oil,” for example.
For vehicles equipped with a hydraulic system, learning how to check power steering fluid is a straightforward maintenance task. More importantly, the inspection can reveal something that needs attention, such as a low reservoir or evidence of a leak.
The only things to do are monitor the fluid levels, use the fluid your vehicle recommends, and don’t rely on low fluid levels being more than a temporary solution to potentially serious issues.
What Is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid What it is: Power steering fluid is the hydraulic fluid some steering systems utilize to provide driving assistance. What it does: In hydraulic power steering, pump and related systems utilize fluid pressure to provide assistance in turning the wheel. This means if the fluid is at the correct level, driving assistance in turning the vehicle will probably require reasonable effort.
Problems: If the steering wheel feels tighter and is harder to turn, low power steering fluid may be the cause – as per this from Firestone.
It could just be an ongoing problem though, rather than the initial issue: If the fluid constantly runs low, it’s likely leaking somewhere.
Does Every Car Have Power Steering Fluid?
No.
This is one of the first, and most important things to figure out about your car before you pop the hood.
Older, and some newer cars, utilize hydraulic power steering, and thus contain a power steering fluid reservoir. A lot of newer cars, however, use an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Electric power steering uses electric motor, sensors and a control unit instead of the traditional power steering fluid reservoir to provide power assistance to steering the vehicle.
The best source for which style of power steering your car is equipped with is in your owner’s manual and vehicle maintenance schedule.
If your car has Electric Power Steering, then looking for an power steering fluid reservoir is probably a pointless endeavor.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
If your vehicle uses hydraulic power steering, the basic inspection usually involves locating the reservoir and checking its level according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
1. Park the Vehicle Safely
Position the vehicle on a flat surface and ensure the parking brake is engaged.
Turn off the engine unless the manual directs you to check fluids with the engine running.
Wait to remove the radiator cap (if applicable) until the cooling system has had a chance to cool-if not, superheated fluid can spray out, causing burns! The engine compartment contains hot parts and moving parts, so don’t stick your hands near any belts or fans.
2. Locate the Reservoir
Open the hood and look for the power steering fluid reservoir.
The reservoir may be a small plastic container or another clearly identified component in the engine compartment, as part of your car fluid maintenance routine. Some vehicles have markings such as:
MIN / MAX
or
LOW / FULL
The exact location varies by vehicle.
Do not assume that every fluid reservoir is a power steering reservoir. Brake fluid, coolant, windshield washer fluid, and other fluids may be located nearby.
3. Read the Reservoir Markings
If the reservoir is clear you will be able to see the level through the unit.
Check the level and compare it with the markings on the reservoir.
Some systems have a dipstick attached to the reservoir cap and if yours has one, read the handbook for the correct checking procedure, as some have hot and cold checks.
There is not a ‘one size fits all’ check temperature.
4. Check the Condition of the Fluid
Don’t stop at the level.
First of all, be sure to inspect for visible evidence that the fluid is contaminated or it’s the wrong, or has become the wrong color for your particular car, in some regard. Firestone pointed out that greenish or grayish, black power steering fluid is often associated with the internal issues of power steering and even steering, not just power steering fluid itself, though it might sound silly, to some of you. Again I’m going to say that the color alone is not a diagnosis for what has happened, fluid colors vary between products and even some cars just naturally turn different colours of the spectrum.
5. Check Around the Reservoir
Visually inspect the reservoir, the hoses, connections and other nearby parts for the evidence of fluid leakage. The reason for the low fluid level may actually be a leak and not because it’s consumed by the system. The directions of Firestone say to inspect the reservoir of the pump and look for fluid leak in relation to the pump, hoses, gearbox and rack-and-pinion assembly.
What Does Low Power Steering Fluid Mean?
Low fluid level is one piece of information, not a diagnosis in itself. It’s one thing for a system to run with a low fluid level, and another for the level to continue dropping after it’s brought back up..
Potential leak locations include:
- Power steering hoses
- Connections and seals
- Power steering pump
- Steering rack
- Rack-and-pinion components
- Other hydraulic steering components
“You may also see leaks that emanate from a host, seals in steering, the power steering pump, components associated with the steering rack,” writes Firestone. “You could be chasing after that fluid, and while topped up, have to continue checking if you have a real issue.”
How to Add Power Steering Fluid
If your vehicle’s fluid is low and the owner’s manual specifies a particular power steering fluid, use only the recommended product.
Do not assume that all hydraulic steering fluids are interchangeable.
Some vehicles specify a particular fluid type, and using an incorrect product can create compatibility or performance problems.
A safe approach is:
- Check the owner’s manual.
- Confirm the exact fluid specification.
- Make sure the reservoir and surrounding area are clean.
- Add the recommended fluid gradually.
- Stop at the manufacturer’s specified level.
- Avoid overfilling.
- Recheck the system for signs of leakage.
If you’re uncertain about the correct fluid, ask a qualified technician rather than guessing.
Why You Shouldn’t Overfill the Reservoir
10. Fluid isn’t always good in larger quantities Overfilling. A system reservoir is given operating ranges for a reason – the system needs enough fluid to do its work but too much and it’s not good. Too much fluid may have no where else to go except out a cap, out over the edges, or even into part it’s not meant to flow around as fluid (i.e., over the seal of the component itself). If this is the situation, stick with the manufacturer’s indication – no need to fill to the brim.
What Does Power Steering Fluid Look Like?
The appearance of power steering fluid depends on the specific product and vehicle.
It may have a clear, amber, pink, or other appearance depending on the formulation. For that reason, don’t use a generic color chart as a substitute for the manufacturer’s specification.
The more useful questions are:
Is the fluid at the correct level?
Does it look unusually contaminated?
Is the reservoir leaking?
Is the steering system behaving normally?
Does the fluid level continue to fall?
Those questions provide more useful information than color alone.
What If the Power Steering Fluid Is Low?
If it’s low, find out if your vehicle actually has power steering and check what type of fluid it requires.
If it’s just a bit below the specified level you may be able to top it up with the required specification of fluid.
If though the reservoir is extremely low or empty and you only need to add the fluid, then don’t assume that’s all there is to it. The fluid can be lost as a result of a leak or problem with components. A technician will be able to diagnose such an issue.
Signs of a Power Steering Problem
Low fluid is only one possible warning sign.
Pay attention if you notice:
Heavy Steering
A steering wheel that suddenly becomes difficult to turn can indicate reduced power assistance.
While there could be low fluid on the other hand, Firestone listed additional possible causes such as trouble with the pump, problems with the drive belt, issues with tire inflation, an improper tire alignment or something else relating to the vehicle’s electrical system for electric steering vehicles.
Whining or Groaning
Why does my steering wheel make a groaning noise at low speed or when turning Why did my power steering go out I notice a winining or a groaning noise when i turn and i was driving i have it 2009 ford escape what’s the problem is with power steering I don’t see anything but like the fluid I don’t see any thing I’ve looked under the car so this would automatically just mean it has to be power steering low in fluid Or contamination by air And it should definitely be automatically taken as low powersteering fluid that’s it Is? .
A winining orgroaning sound when you turn on either direction could mean one of two things when using a hydraulic steering system Your system might have some air in the hydraulic fluid and that could cause a wining noise when operating or If that doesn’t work it could be that your system might not be filled up with enough power fluid It probably would need an oil change maybe some power fluid some people find a fluid leak on the lines I had that problem before I have a 2009 Ford Escape so I can definitely look that up What would be the cost.
I’m pretty sure it’s not a fluid-related issue. I read that it could be caused by a mechanical problem, so I’d rather bring it to you first thing Monday. for you to check out. Please tell me which one sounds like most likely to be?
Fluid on the Ground
A puddle or fresh fluid underneath the front portion of the vehicle can indicate a leak.
The color and location of a fluid spot can provide clues, but identifying an automotive fluid solely by appearance can be difficult.
Steering That Feels Different
Changes in steering effort, especially sudden or progressive changes, deserve attention.
Any unexpected steering behavior deserves attention because steering is vital to safe driving.
Check Power Steering Fluid When the Steering Feels Stiff?
Yes, checking the fluid can be a sensible first inspection if your vehicle uses hydraulic power steering.
Firestone recommends checking the reservoir when steering becomes difficult and explains that low fluid can contribute to stiff steering.
But don’t stop there.
If the fluid level is normal and steering remains unusually heavy, the cause may involve another component.
Possible causes can include:
- Power steering pump problems
- Drive-belt problems
- Steering rack issues
- Suspension components
- Tire pressure
- Wheel alignment
- Electrical steering-system faults
This is why a fluid check is best viewed as a diagnostic starting point rather than a complete steering-system inspection.
Power Steering Fluid vs. Other Vehicle Fluids
It is easy to confuse reservoirs when you’re unfamiliar with an engine compartment.
| Fluid | General Purpose | Should You Substitute It? |
| Power steering fluid | Hydraulic steering assistance in applicable systems | No |
| Brake fluid | Transfers hydraulic braking force | No |
| Engine coolant | Controls engine temperature | No |
| Engine oil | Lubricates engine components | No |
| Windshield washer fluid | Cleans windshield | No |
Never pour a fluid into a reservoir simply because the container looks similar.
The reservoir label and owner’s manual should determine what belongs there.
How Often Should You Check Power Steering Fluid?
There isn’t a universal interval for all vehicles. The intervals can vary by year, make and model of vehicle. Some manufacturers will mention checking the power steering fluid as part of their regular service schedule (e.g., Ford’s maintenance schedule mentions checking fluids like power steering fluid under scheduled checks/inspections), but always let your owner’s manual be the deciding factor.
On many older-design vehicles (i.e., older hydraulic systems, not rack-and-pinion, but then the fluid type is different), testing or inspections may also be beneficial based on symptoms such as difficult turning, sounds from the steering, or leaks around components associated with power steering.
Currently Firestone does recommend a check on a yearly basis or based on your manufacturer’s scheduled maintenance guideline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Checking the Wrong Reservoir
Before doing anything, make sure to check that you are actually looking at the right reservoir for the power steering fluid.
Using the Wrong Fluid
Make sure to use the fluid that the manufacturer recommends for your specific vehicle.
Filling it Higher Than Recommended
In reality, there is no reason for filling the fluid higher than the recommended level. It will not improve the car’s handling in any way.
Not Paying Attention to a Consistent Leak
If the liquid level is low, it means there is some kind of leak. It is important to deal with that as soon as possible.
Thinking that Every instance of Hard Steering is Due to Low Fluid
Depending on your car, the electric steering systems might not require any power steering fluid at all, and in other cases, the hydraulic systems could malfunction in various ways unrelated to the fluid level.
Not Paying Attention to Leaks
It is best to look into the cause of fluid leaking on the floor near the steering wheel rather than simply wiping it away and pretending everything is fine.
When to Get Professional Help
A professional inspection is appropriate when:
- The fluid level keeps dropping
- You see a significant leak
- Steering suddenly becomes very difficult
- The steering makes unusual noises
- The fluid appears heavily contaminated
- The reservoir is empty
- You are unsure which fluid to use
- The vehicle uses an electric steering system and has steering problems
The steering assistance suddenly failed. When the steering aid decreases, we take ourselves through the car as if all was unchanged – a more controlled way to examine if everything works properly if no more. Then you can check the suspension on your car.
A Simple Maintenance Routine
A practical routine doesn’t need to be complicated when you follow a vehicle inspection checklist.
When checking under the hood, look for:
Correct level: Is the fluid between the manufacturer’s minimum and maximum markings?
Leaks: Is there fresh fluid around the reservoir, hoses, pump, or steering components?
Condition: Does the fluid appear unusually contaminated?
Steering feel: Does the steering feel normal?
Noise: Is there a new whining, groaning, or unusual sound?
This five-point check can help you recognize changes before they become more difficult to diagnose.
Final Thoughts About Checking Power Steering Fluid
Knowing how to check power steering fluid is useful, but the process begins with confirming that your vehicle actually uses a hydraulic steering system.
If so, find the correct fluid reservoir, fill up with the specific fluid required according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer, and also have an eye out for leaks. A low reservoir level can easily be rectified by the topping-up of the correct fluid; however, if it is persistently low there may be something more to be concerned about.
If the steering is stiff, noisy or otherwise unpredictable do not automatically presume fluid level is the only issue. Hydraulic steering systems suffer leakages and mechanical wear and tear while the power steering unit used on most modern vehicles is entirely electric, and does not have a reservoir.
As with most elements of vehicle maintenance then, the correct approach is uncomplicated. The correct fluid is to be used, according to the manufacturers specification and if the reservoir is persistently low a more involved examination of steering characteristics is required.
FAQs About Checking Power Steering Fluid
1. How do I check power steering fluid?
If your car has a hydraulic power steering system, check the power steering fluid located in the reservoir under the hood. Check that it is at the correct level according to the lines or procedure in the owner’s manual. Not all cars require power steering fluid as new cars are coming with electric power steering.
Should the engine be running when checking power steering fluid?
It depends on the car. Some systems require it to be checked when cold, some have hot and cold levels, and some have specific instructions. The best policy is to check your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.
What are the consequences of low power steering fluid?
Low power steering fluid can lead to loss of power assist making the car harder to steer. It can also cause whining and groaning noises from the steering system. Low fluid can also be a sign of a leak in the system. Firestone notes that low fluid can make the steering harder to control.
Can you use any power steering fluid?
It is best to use the fluid specified by your car manufacturer. Some systems require different fluids so it is best not to experiment with different fluids.
5How often should I check my power steering fluid?
Check with your car’s maintenance schedule. If you have a car with hydraulic power steering it is good to periodically check the fluid level yourself. It is recommended to check at least once a year or according to the manufacturer.
Why is my power steering fluid level low?
Fluid levels can become low due to leaks. There could be a leak in the reservoir, hoses, pump, seals, steering rack, or another component. Simply replacing the fluid without finding and fixing a leak would just continue to cause issues.
Do cars with electric power steering require power steering fluid?
Most vehicles with electric power steering do not have a standard power steering fluid reservoir. Since there are a variety of power steering systems, it is best to check with the owner’s manual rather than assuming which type of system you have.
