What happens if power steering fluid is not changed for a long time?
2 Answers
If power steering fluid is not changed for a long time, it can lead to damage to the steering gear and power steering pump. Symptoms of insufficient power steering fluid include: 1. Abnormal noises from the power steering pump when turning the wheel; 2. Power steering failure, making the steering wheel feel heavy. The method for changing power steering fluid is: 1. Start the car and remove all the old fluid; 2. Pour in new power steering fluid, then turn the steering wheel back and forth to allow the new fluid to circulate and also clean the system; 3. Remove the fluid from the power steering reservoir, then add new fluid again and repeat the second step by turning the steering wheel; 4. Remove the fluid once more and repeat the previous step.
A few days ago, I drove my friend's old car and clearly felt the steering wheel had become unusually heavy. Before, a light turn would suffice, but now it takes a lot of effort. During our conversation, I found out he hadn't changed the power steering fluid in five years, which caused the entire power steering system to malfunction. Over time, unmaintained power steering fluid becomes as thick as paste, and metal particles in the fluid can clog the oil passages. The worst part is the increased wear on the oil pump and steering gear, causing clunking noises when turning, and eventually, replacing the whole system can cost thousands. Actually, changing this fluid every two years is sufficient—I always note it in my maintenance log. Remember, if steering feels stiff, get it checked immediately; don’t wait until there's no power assist at all to regret it.
