Your car’s power steering system helps you turn the wheel with ease. The power steering fluid is what makes this possible, as it lubricates the system and helps transfer energy from the engine to the wheels. Over time, the fluid can become dirty or low, which can make steering harder and can cause damage to the system. In this article, we’ll discuss how often you should change your power steering fluid to keep your car running smoothly.
What is power steering fluid?
Power steering fluid is the hydraulic fluid that helps power your vehicle’s steering system. Over time, it can break down and become less effective, which can lead to steering problems. That’s why it’s important to change your power steering fluid regularly.
How often should you change your power steering fluid? Most manufacturers recommend changing it every 30,000 miles or so. However, if you notice any steering problems, it’s a good idea to have it checked by a mechanic to see if the fluid needs to be changed sooner.
What does power steering fluid do?
Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps to transmit the power from the steering wheel to the wheels of the car, making it easier to steer. Over time, the fluid can become dirty and contaminated, which can cause steering problems. For this reason, it’s important to change your power steering fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
When should you change your power steering fluid?
Just like with your engine oil, it’s important to change your power steering fluid on a regular basis. How often you should change it depends on your driving habits and the make of your vehicle, but generally speaking, you should change it every 30,000 miles or so.
If you do a lot of driving in stop-and-go traffic, or if you regularly tow heavy loads, then you may need to change your power steering fluid more frequently. Similarly, if you drive in dusty or muddy conditions, that can also shorten the lifespan of your power steering fluid.
Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on how often to change your power steering fluid. And when you do change it, be sure to use the same type of fluid that was originally used in your vehicle.
How often should you change your power steering fluid?
Assuming you have a power steering system in your vehicle, it is recommended that you change your power steering fluid every 30,000 miles to keep it running smoothly. Over time, the fluid can break down and become less effective, so it’s important to stay on top of maintenance. If you notice any strange noises or leaking, be sure to take your car in for service.
How to change your power steering fluid
If you notice that your power steering fluid is low or dirty, it’s time to change it. Here’s how:
1. Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It’s usually marked with a symbol that looks like a steering wheel.
3. Using a clean funnel, add power steering fluid to the reservoir until it reaches the “full” line.
4. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from one side to the other several times. This will help bleed air out of the system.
5. Check the power steering fluid level again and add more if necessary.
Conclusion
It is important to change your power steering fluid regularly in order to keep your car’s steering system functioning properly. Depending on how often you use your car and the type of power steering fluid you have, you should change your power steering fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Be sure to consult your car’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic to find out what type of power steering fluid is right for your car and how often you should change it.