What causes the sudden loss of power steering fluid?
3 Answers
The main reasons for power steering fluid leakage are improper driving by the driver, damage to the power steering pump, or overfilling of the power steering fluid. Replacement cycle for power steering fluid: To prevent the power steering fluid from becoming too dirty or deteriorating, it is recommended to replace the power steering fluid every 2 years or 30,000 kilometers. If the power steering fluid is not replaced for a long time, it can cause damage to the power steering pump and steering gear. Method for replacing power steering fluid: Start the car and use an oil extractor to remove the old fluid completely; inject new power steering fluid and turn the steering wheel back and forth to allow the new fluid to penetrate and clean the system; then remove the fluid from the power steering fluid reservoir and inject new fluid while turning the steering wheel. Precautions when replacing power steering fluid: Do not hold the steering wheel at full lock for too long, as this can cause excessive oil pressure and lead to fluid spraying out; do not mix different types of fluids; and do not run the engine without fluid for an extended period, as this can damage the power steering pump.
I've been driving for ten years. Once when I was on a long-distance trip, the power steering fluid suddenly leaked out, and the steering wheel became as heavy as lead. The cause is quite common: the rubber hoses in older cars can age and crack, or the seals in the oil pump can wear out and fail. A damaged oil tank or loose connections can also cause problems, especially after exposure to high temperatures or rough roads. Once the fluid is gone, the power steering system loses all assistance, which is extremely dangerous. That time, I quickly pulled over and called a tow truck to take the car to a repair shop. It turned out the high-pressure hose had cracked, and after replacing it, everything was back to normal. I usually check the fluid level every quarter and look for any oil stains in the engine bay—early detection can prevent major repairs. Safe driving requires vigilance. If the fluid runs out, stop driving immediately—don’t hesitate over the cost of a tow truck.
As a car enthusiast, I've dealt with many power steering issues. Sudden fluid loss is mostly caused by pipe ruptures or seal failures, such as high-pressure hoses bursting under pressure due to aging, low-pressure pipes corroding through, or pump shaft seals wearing out and leaking. Loose connections causing drips that accumulate over time will eventually empty the system. If the steering wheel becomes heavy and difficult to turn while driving, it's a clear sign of fluid leakage - you must stop immediately to check the fluid level. The consequences can be severe, as losing power steering makes the vehicle harder to control, especially dangerous at highway speeds. My old car had a similar issue and had to be towed to a repair shop for component replacement. I recommend checking the system during regular maintenance and using the correct fluid type to prevent leaks.
