Checking Your Power Steering Fluid

There are many essential functions you should and can perform yourself for your car care and to keep your car performing at its’ best. The cars’ steering is one of those things that you should give extra attention to and maintain well. Loss of steering could not only be dangerous but could result in injuries to yourself or others. The most simple maintenance check you can do to provide safe steering in your car is to check the power steering fluid; and to refill it or change it when necessary.

Cars differ when it comes to checking the power steering fluid; some require the cars engine to be cold and some require it to be hot. Check your owners’ manual for what the recommendations are for your particular vehicle.

Most car manufacturers and car repair professionals suggest checking the power steering fluid when the engine is warm. If your engine is cool and has not been run for several hours, then turn it on, apply the parking brake for safety, and allow the car to idle for 5 to 10 minutes (or simply go for a drive for several minutes) If it is cold weather outside, allow the engine to warm properly, this may take slightly longer than only 5 minutes.
When the car is suitably warmed open the car hood and prop it opened, securely.  Now, using your owners manual if required, locate the power steering fluid tank. Open the tank (generally the lid is screwed on or simply pops off.) Using the dipstick (if your car has one) and check the fluid level. Plastic tanks may have indicator lines on it that read ‘full’ or ‘low’. Most power steering fluid tanks are plastic and you can clearly see if the fluid is low.
Add more power steering fluid, if needed. (Be sure to use only the type of fluid your specific make of car requires and ensure that you do not overfill the tank. A local car parts and car repair shop can help you in obtaining the type needed for your car.)
Now you can replace the power steering fluid tap cap, ensuring that it is replaced securely and tightly and feel confident in your car care abilities in the instance of maintaining the power steering for your car.