Types of Steering Fluid Used In Different Vehicles

Recently deal with a power steering leak? Learn about the different types of power steering fluid and the importance of using the right one!

Transcript:

Are you struggling to turn your steering wheel?

For those of you who remember manual steering, well, that brings back some memories.

This struggle to turn could be a sign of a power steering leak.

You can refer to my video on three signs of a power steering problem.

Hi, I’m Nancy at Kneble’s Auto Service Center.

Once you have the cause of your power steering leak repaired, be aware as vehicles are continuing to evolve with technology, your vehicle may be designed with an electric power steering, hydraulic power steering or hydraulic and electric power steering system.

Before I tell you the difference, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and check out our YouTube channel.

Hydraulic power steering needs fluid to operate.

There are a variety of fluids. So make sure you use the manufacturer’s recommendation when adding or changing for fluid.
ATF, or automatic transmission fluid, is used as power steering fluid in many models, such as Ford, Chrysler, GM, and certain model Volkswagens that were built in America.

Laboratory produced power steering fluid is designed for high performance vehicles such as Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Porsche.

This type of power steering fluid is a synthetic base fluid and it meets certain specifications such as viscosity, lubrication qualities, and provides better temperature stability, giving a quicker response time when initially steering.

Oh, and by the way, for those vehicles with only electric power steering, you don’t use any fluid.

Your power steering operates with an electric motor. Therefore, you have no power steering leaks, with hoses and pumps, and no power steering fluid flushes needed.

So the next time you grab a bottle of power steering fluid, make sure you check your owner’s manual to determine if your vehicle uses power steering fluid, which type, and when you should have your power steering fluid flushed.

Using the wrong fluid or not, following the manufacturer’s recommendation for flushing the system may cause damage to your system from minor or major.

Thank you for watching. Call us for your next automotive needs at 609-625-3286, or come see us here at 5473 Somers Point Road in Mays Landing.

Of course, next to Freddy J’s Bar & Kitchen.

Thank you.