Power steering fluid keeps your steering system smooth and responsive. It’s necessary for transferring pressure from the steering wheel to the wheels themselves, helping you turn with ease. Over time, though, this fluid degrades. It picks up moisture, dirt, and metal particles from inside the steering components, which can lead to sluggish performance and wear inside the system.
If the fluid is never changed or checked, your steering could become stiff or noisy. Worse, it can lead to damage in the power steering pump or rack, which are expensive parts to replace.
What Power Steering Fluid Actually Does
When you turn your steering wheel, the power steering pump sends fluid through a system of hoses and valves. This fluid builds pressure behind a piston in the steering rack, helping the wheels move with much less effort than manual steering. Without this hydraulic assistance, every turn of the wheel would feel heavy and slow, especially at low speeds.
Besides creating pressure, the fluid also lubricates the system, reducing friction and helping parts last longer. That’s why keeping it clean and at the right level is critical for smooth driving.
How to Tell If Your Power Steering Fluid Needs Attention
Your car often gives small hints when the power steering fluid is due for service. Some signs to watch for include:
- Whining or groaning noises when turning
- A steering wheel that feels stiff or harder to turn
- Fluid leaks under the vehicle, especially near the front
- A burning smell while driving
- Power steering warning light, if your car has one
These symptoms may not all appear at once, but even one of them should be a reason to check your fluid and schedule an inspection.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Dirty or Low Fluid
Once the fluid gets dirty or breaks down, it can no longer protect internal components from wear. Contaminants in the fluid can scratch or corrode seals, damage valves, and reduce pressure within the system. This often leads to premature failure of the pump or rack, which can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to fix.
Leaking fluid can also be a safety issue. If the level drops too low, your steering may feel unpredictable or lock up temporarily. In a tight turn or an emergency situation, that delay can be dangerous.
How Often Should You Change Power Steering Fluid
Most manufacturers don’t include power steering fluid changes in their routine maintenance schedules, which is why many drivers overlook it. However, many technicians recommend checking the fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or once every few years. If the fluid looks dark, smells burnt, or contains visible debris, it's time to replace it.
Vehicles like those from Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Audi often use specific types of hydraulic fluid that require more frequent attention due to their tighter tolerances. Using the wrong fluid or waiting too long to change it can lead to costly issues, especially in these precision-engineered systems.
What Happens During a Power Steering Fluid Service
During a typical service, a technician will check the fluid level and condition, inspect hoses and connections for leaks, and flush out the old fluid if needed. Flushing involves removing nearly all of the old fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid recommended by your manufacturer.
Some shops use a machine to remove all the old fluid, while others employ manual methods. Either way, the goal is to leave your system clean, quiet, and fully protected.
Take the Strain Off Your Steering With Pete’s Auto Service in Charlotte, NC
If your steering doesn’t feel quite right, or if it’s been years since your power steering fluid was checked, schedule a visit to Pete’s Auto Service in Charlotte, NC. Our team will inspect your system, flush old fluid if needed, and help extend the life of your steering components. Don’t wait until it becomes a struggle to turn the wheel.
Book your service today and keep your car handling the way it should.