Find the Reservoir
Locate the power steering reservoir, normally a small translucent container attached to the engine. Sometimes the reservoir is marked with a symbol of a steering wheel. If you are still unable to locate it, check your car’s owner’s manual for further information.
Read the Level Markings Correctly
Most power steering fluid reservoirs have two sets of marks; one for cold engine and fluid temperature and the other for hot. It is best to check the level of the fluid before starting the engine for a cold reading or wait a few minutes and take a reading after the engine has been started for a hot reading. This will ensure that the reading is accurate.
Check the Fluid Colour
Healthy power steering fluid is a pink, red or clear liquid. Brown or burnt-smelling fluid is degraded and must be changed. Milky or foamy-looking fluid indicates water contamination or air in the power steering system.
Top Up With the Right Fluid
Add the correct type and amount of power steering fluid to the reservoir until the correct level is reached (refer to owner’s manual for correct type). Add small amounts of fluid at a time and check the level until the correct level is achieved.
Persistent Drop Means a Leak
The only thing that is ‘eaten away’ by the power steering fluid is the seals of the power steering pump. Fluid will not ‘vanish’ from the system, hence it is logical to conclude that a persistent drop in level is due to a leak or leaks somewhere in the system.
Power Steering Specialists is covered in more detail at https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/.
Catching any fluid problems before they become a major problem will save a lot of money in the long run as a faulty power steering pump or rack can cost a lot to replace.
