Almost all new cars are equipped with power steering, which can be hydraulic or electrical. The hydraulic system consists of a power steering pump, hoses and cylinders which ensure that steering does not take too much effort. The hydraulic pump is driven by the V-belt or auxiliary belt. If you turn the steering wheel, the pressure is built up in the hydraulic pump. The power steering fluid ensures that the pressure is transformed to a force, which is transmitted to the other steering parts. All in all, making steering a breeze. Is the level of the power steering fluid low? A low level makes steering more difficult and harder. It´s also possible that you´ll hear a high pitch sound while steering. It is important that if the fluid level is too low, that power steering fluid is added as quickly as possible.
Top up power steering fluid
Check regularly whether there is sufficient power steering oil in the reservoir of your car. If this is not the case, top it up as soon as possible. How? You can add power steering oil as follows:
- Find the power steering fluid reservoir. You will find this in the vicinity of the power steering belt. The reservoir has a cylindrical shape, made of metal or plastic.
- Check the level of the liquid. With a transparent reservoir, you can easily read the level. Is the reservoir not transparent? Then check the level with a dipstick. The dipstick can often be found on the cap of the reservoir.
- Check the colour of the liquid. Usable clean power steering fluid is red/yellowish in colour. Is the liquid brown-black coloured however, then it may indicate defects.
- Is the level of fluid in the reservoir too low? Fill the power steering oil to the correct level. Make sure you purchase the correct fluid for your car. Note: Never add too much fluid. It?s better to add just a bit short of the indicated level. As soon as the fluid gets hot, it expands.
- Put the cap back on the fluid reservoir.
Change power steering fluid
If during checking it is discovered that the power steering fluid is brown of colour, then you will need to change it. None of the car manufacturers writes a fixed interval for changing power steering fluid. A general rule of thumb is to change power steering fluid after 60,000 miles / 100,000 km. However, to keep your car in top condition, we recommend that you frequently check the power steering fluid through the year.
Which power steering fluid do you need
Power steering fluid is subdivided using a colour scheme, with colours such as red, yellow and green. You can read which power steering oil is suitable in the manual of your car. You can also see it on the cap of the reservoir. It is often stated here which fluid is suitable for your car. Yellow letters mean that you have to go for yellow liquid, red for red and so on. However, it is important not to rely solely on the indicated colour. The composition of the liquids between the offered products can differ within a colour specification. It?s therefore important to always check the manual of your car. It's more convenient though to enter your number plate or select your vehicle in the selector to find suitable products for your car. You can then easily order the products at Winparts.
Buy power steering fluid
Buying power steering fluid is quick and easy at Winparts. You can choose from a number of top brands such as Kroon Oil, Valvoline and Eurol. We also offer other types of oil and liquids such as motor oil, engine coolant, additives or brake fluid.