by Rachel Fahnel

Created on: December 19, 2010   Last Updated: December 30, 2010

How to Check Power Steering Fluid.

The checking of the power steering fluid is a common part of the preventative maintenance on a car. Without this vital fluid the car would be very difficult to control going down the highway, as the power steering system makes it easier to control the car.

This is because power steering compresses fluid in much the same way brakes compress fluid to operate. The drive belt turns the pulley and makes the power steering pump work. When the steering wheel is turned a shaft called the steering shaft which is connected to the power steering pump turns and causes the pump to start working. The fluid then gets compressed and assists in turning the front wheels.

Power steering fluid will eventually go down due to the constant motion that we put the steering wheel under during every day travel. There may also be leaks that form from wear and tear that happens to the vehicle. If the fluid is constantly low check the hoses and the reservior for leaks. If any are found take the vehicle to a mechanic right away so the leak can be addressed so it does not get worse.

The power steering fluid should be checked at least once a week to make sure there are no problems that can occur.

To check the power steering fluid, start by finding the hood release latch and pull it. Then go to the front of the car and open the hood. At this point please make sure that the hood is properly supported, as serious injury will result should the hood fall while the car is being maintained. The next thing to do is to look for is a black box on top of a pulley operated pump. This should have a small cap on top. This is the power steering fluid reservior.

Unscrew the cap. It will have a dip stick attached to it. Clean the stick off  and replace cap. Take the cap off again and look at where the fluid stops on the stick. This will be the  fluid level. If no fluid is on the dip stick then get some power steering fluid and add it to the reservior. Replace the cap and look once more. Keep filling as necessary until the fluid reaches the full mark on the dip stick. When this is done replace the cap tightly and close the hood.

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