Power steering oil: functions, service and price

Also called power steering fluidPower steering oil is part of the steering system that is used for lubrication, among other things. It protects the system and reduces wear and tear. There are several types of power steering oil. It is necessary that change oil periodically, because over time it loses its properties.

💧 What is power steering oil used for?

Today all cars have power steering, which reduces the effort of the driver when maneuvering the car or turning the wheels. THE 'power steering oil is part of this system. This allows it to lubricate well.

Power steering oil is used in hydraulic or electro-hydraulic power steering systems. There are also electrical systems that do not require fluid. Power steering oil is the so-called ATF oil, designed for Automatic transmission fluid.

Like other oils in your car, there are different types:

• Oil mineralconsisting of refined oil and various additives;
• Oil syntheticconsisting of refined petroleum, sugar alcohols and polyesters, as well as various additives;
• Oil semi-synthetic, a mixture of synthetic and mineral products.

Thanks to the additives it contains, power steering oil has a number of properties:

• Antiwear;
• Anti-corrosion;
• Anti-foam.

So she can protect the hydraulic system, reduce the wear and tear of its organs and, therefore, increase their service life. Power steering oil also reduces engine noise. It meets the General Motors standard, the standard Dexron, which determines its viscosity, its density and its flash point, which is its minimum ignition temperature.

However, be careful because some mineral oils do not have this name and cannot be mixed with Dexron oils.

🔍 Which oil to choose for the power steering?

There are different oils for the power steering: mineral, semi-synthetic and synthetic... Their composition varies, the mineral oil consisted of refined oil, as well as additives that improve its properties. Synthetic oil contains only small amounts of refined petroleum, sugar alcohols and polyesters, and additives.

Finally, semi-synthetic oil, as the name suggests, is a mixture of mineral and synthetic products. Thus, these three types of oil have different properties and different viscosities. The packaging indicates which vehicles the power steering oil is suitable for.

You can also notice the difference in hue power steering oil. It is usually liquid red for Dexron oil, yellow (especially Mercedes) or vert (German cars like Volkswagen and BMW). Color does not affect the quality of the oil and does not indicate whether it is mineral, synthetic or semi-synthetic.

Do not mix the two types of power steering oils. It is also important to choose it according to the engine. Your service booklet tells you which fluid is right for your vehicle; follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

🗓️ When to change the power steering oil?

Over time and mileage, the power steering oil loses its properties. It can also deteriorate prematurely if it is not suitable for your vehicle, if your steering system is damaged or overused (for example, during aggressive driving), or if it overheats.

Therefore, the power steering oil must be changed periodically in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Usually this replacement period is 100 kilometer ou every xnumx years, but these recommendations may differ.

You should also change the power steering oil if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Power steering oil leaks ;
• Insect dwellers when you turn the steering wheel ;
• Stiffer steering ;
• The smell of burning ;
• Change in oil color.

Do not hesitate if you notice a fluid leak: indeed, driving without oil with a power steering is dangerous. The latter cannot work correctly, which complicates maneuvers. In addition, you will wear out the system prematurely.

👨‍🔧 How to change the power steering oil?

Changing the power steering oil consists of draining the circuit to clear it of the used fluid. Then add power steering oil. The operation takes about thirty minutes. It must be changed periodically, following the recommendations of your car manufacturer.

Material:

• socket
• Candles
• Tools
• Pallet
• Power steering oil

Step 1. Raise the machine

Raise the vehicle to access the power steering oil pan and easily change the oil. To ensure complete safety, stabilize it with jacks in the places provided. Find the housing that is under the steering column.

Step 2. Drain the power steering system.

Once the case is identified, place a plastic container underneath it. Disassemble the power steering oil tank return pipe from the steering rack and place it in the sump. Let the liquid drain into it until the end.

Step 3. Fill the power steering oil reservoir.

When the power steering system is empty, refill with new oil. Look at the dipstick on the power steering oil reservoir. Turn the steering wheel left and right to make sure the used fluid is drained, then reconnect the return hose. Finish by starting the engine and adding oil.

💶 How much does it cost to change the power steering oil?

The price of a canister of power steering oil is From 10 to 30 € depending on the type of fluid and its brand. If you change the oil yourself, you don't have to pay anything. In the garage, the hourly wages must be added to the bill.

Calculate the price From 40 to 90 € to change the power steering oil, but it can be included in the service package for your vehicle.

Now you know all about the role and usefulness of power steering oil! Its lubricating function is essential for maintaining your steering system. Therefore, you should not neglect an oil change, which can be carried out at the same time as a major overhaul of your car.