Have you ever stopped and wondered why it’s so effortless to turn a 5,822-pound Cadillac Escalade using a single finger? It’s not the result of your semester stint as a high school athlete, it’s the result of the genius engineering behind power steering.
Power steering is an electric or hydraulic system that provides steering assistance at low speeds, with decreasing aid as speeds increase for better stability. It’s what allows you to quickly and painlessly maneuver around a parking lot, take easy corners in town, whip the wheel during parallel parking, and keep from flying off a cliff when driving Utah’s 80 mph speed limits.
On vehicles with hydraulic power steering, inspecting and changing power steering fluid is a key checkbox in a car’s regularly scheduled maintenance. If you’re unsure what that means or nervous about tackling the task yourself, no worries. The Drive has put together a handy guide to explain how to examine your system, how to check your fluid, how to flush your fluid, and how to stay safe throughout. Let’s go!
Power steering is an automotive steering system that utilizes electric or hydraulic power to ease the effort required to turn a steering wheel. Traditional hydraulic systems have been used for decades, but electric systems have gained popularity in recent years.
A hydraulic system is directly linked to the steering rack and is powered by an engine belt-driven pump that pressurizes power steering fluid. Hydraulic systems are praised for their lively and direct steering feel but criticized for their maintenance, bulk, and energy consumption.
Electric systems save size, weight, and complexity by eliminating the need for a pump, a pulley, a belt, hoses, or power steering fluid. Instead, an electric motor attached to the steering rack or steering column provides the steering boost. Thanks to speed, torque, and motion sensors, electric power steering systems instantly and automatically make adjustments. However, electric systems are often criticized for inconsistent steering ratios and a numb or disconnected steering feel.
An electrohydraulic system combines properties from electric and hydraulic systems. Rather than using a pump driven by the engine, these systems often use electric pumps to pressurize the hydraulic fluid. Certain electrohydraulic systems can also shut the electric pump off when not in use to conserve energy. Gunther Werks’ reimagined 911 uses an electrohydraulic system.
Power steering fluid is the liquid that runs through a hydraulic power steering system and is the key ingredient in its functionality. Power steering fluid is typically clear, amber, or pinkish. Some manufacturers call for the use of automatic transmission fluid, which is usually red.
Time to get dirty! If you check the power steering fluid and see a dark murky color, it likely needs to be changed.
Estimated Time Needed: About an hour
Skill Level: Beginner
Vehicle System: Steering
Working on your car can be dangerous and messy, so here’s exactly what you’ll need to ensure you don’t die, get maimed, or lose a finger.
We’re not psychic, nor are we snooping through your toolbox or garage, so here’s exactly what you’ll need to get the job done.
Organizing your tools and gear so everything is easily reachable will save precious minutes waiting for your handy-dandy child or four-legged helper to bring you the sandpaper or blowtorch. (You won't need a blowtorch for this job. Please don’t have your kid hand you a blowtorch—Ed.)
You’ll also need a flat workspace, such as a garage floor, driveway, or street parking. Check your local laws to make sure you’re not violating any codes when using the street because we aren’t getting your ride out of the clink.
This won’t take long.
Find a level, well-lit area, grab your manufacturer-recommended fluid, and let’s get into it.
Well, done, you’re finished!
Although flushing the system is the most complete way to change power steering fluid, there is a much less involved method to remove most of the old fluid and replace it with new fluid. We’ll tell you how:
The Drive recognizes that while our How-To guides are detailed and easily followed, a rusty bolt, an engine component not in the correct position, or oil leaking everywhere can derail a project. That’s why we’ve partnered with JustAnswer, which connects you to certified mechanics around the globe, to get you through even the toughest jobs.
So if you have a question or are stuck, click here and talk to a mechanic near you.
You’ve got questions, The Drive’s informational team has answers!
Owners can assure the health and safety of their vehicles by checking the power steering fluid roughly once a month. Replace it roughly every 30,000-60,000 miles, or about every 3-5 years.
Yes! Locate the power steering fluid reservoir, take off the cap, and add fluid to the manufacturer-specified level.
We do not advise driving without power steering fluid.
Replace it when you notice it’s old and dirty, or roughly every 30,000-60,000 miles.
A quart of power steering fluid typically costs roughly $5-20, depending on the type.
Some power steering systems call for a specific type of power steering fluid, while others call for automatic transmission fluid. The differences between the two typically come down to chemical makeups, the use of additives, and the colors. Automatic transmission fluid is red, and power steering fluid is typically clear, amber, or light pink. There might be some exceptions to this.
Lucas Oil Power Steering Fluid with Conditioners
Prestone Power Steering Fluid
Royal Purple MAX EZ Power Steering Fluid
Got a question? Got a pro tip? Send us a note: guidesandgear@thedrive.com
