What Happens If You Don't Change the Power Steering Fluid?
4 Answers
Failure to change the power steering fluid can lead to damage in the steering gear and power steering pump. Power steering fluid is a medium oil added to the power steering system, serving to transmit steering force and provide cushioning. Over time, the power steering fluid can become dirty or deteriorate, requiring replacement approximately every 2 years or 30,000 kilometers. The method for changing the power steering fluid is as follows: 1. Lift the vehicle and engage the handbrake; 2. Remove the return hose; 3. Start the vehicle and turn the steering wheel left and right to drain the old fluid, then add new fluid until the color of the power steering fluid appears clean; 4. Reinstall the hose in reverse order and add new power steering fluid until the fluid level reaches the maximum mark.
I've been into cars for over a decade, and neglecting power steering fluid changes is no trivial matter. Over time, the fluid oxidizes and deteriorates, becoming sticky with sediment buildup, drastically reducing lubrication effectiveness. Prolonged use increases pump resistance, causing grinding noises and accelerated wear. The steering gears suffer too, developing rust or scratches, making the wheel feel heavy as stone—exhausting during parking maneuvers. Contaminants clogging the lines can lead to leaks and complete power assist failure. I once repaired an old car where the owner skipped fluid changes to save pennies; both pump and gears were ruined, costing 800+ RMB in repairs—a false economy. A fluid change every two years costs around 200 RMB, ensuring smoother, safer driving for miles to come.
I used to take the easy way out and put off changing the power steering fluid for a whole year. As a result, the steering wheel became extremely heavy when turning, especially on rainy or cold days—driving felt like an arm workout at the gym. Even parking and making U-turns left me panting, and there was always an annoying squeaking sound. Later, I discovered the fluid had turned black, full of debris. If left unchanged, it could clog system components and accelerate wear on the power steering pump blades. The repair ended up costing me an extra 600 bucks—trying to save money ended up costing me more. Power steering fluid is cheap to replace, usually just a few dozen bucks, so don’t make the same lazy mistake I did. Regular maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and saves you hassle.
Neglecting timely power steering fluid changes poses serious risks. Deteriorated and aged fluid loses lubricity, while increased impurities cause component wear. The steering wheel becomes progressively harder to turn, accompanied by constant abnormal noises, and may even lose power assistance. This creates hazardous driving conditions at high speeds where poor handling delays emergency response, increasing accident risks. Regular fluid inspection during maintenance is crucial - don't compromise safety to save small costs.
