What is PowerSteering oil?
3 Answers
PowerSteering is power steering fluid, a special liquid used in the car's power steering pump. Through hydraulic action, it makes the steering wheel very light, similar to automatic transmission fluid, brake fluid, and shock absorber fluid. Generally, car manufacturers do not strictly specify the replacement cycle for power steering fluid, but to prevent the fluid from becoming too dirty or deteriorating, it is recommended to replace it every 2 years or 30,000 kilometers. The method for replacing power steering fluid: 1. Start the car and remove the old fluid completely; 2. Pour in new power steering fluid, then turn the steering wheel back and forth to allow the new fluid to penetrate; 3. Remove the fluid again, pour in new fluid, and turn the steering wheel; 4. Remove the fluid once more, then pour in new fluid.
Power steering fluid is that critical liquid that makes your steering wheel turn with remarkable ease. After driving numerous vehicles, I've found it's typically housed in a small reservoir within the steering system, primarily functioning to transmit hydraulic pressure and reduce steering effort during driving. Technically speaking, it can be specialized power steering fluid or simply automatic transmission fluid as a substitute, depending on what your vehicle's manual recommends. When the fluid level drops or the fluid ages, the steering wheel becomes stiff and hard to control, sometimes even emitting squeaky noises. For maintenance, I suggest checking the fluid level annually and keeping it clean—don't wait until the power steering pump fails to regret it, as replacing the entire unit is quite a hassle. During daily driving, avoid overfilling the fluid, as exceeding the maximum level might impair performance. The key is using standardized fluid to prolong the system's lifespan.
As a DIY car maintenance enthusiast, I consider power steering fluid as a lubricant that ensures smooth steering. I periodically pop the hood to check the reservoir's position and fluid color. This fluid is typically housed in a metal or plastic reservoir, and you can quickly check the level using a dipstick or sight glass. If it's too low, it indicates potential leakage or aging risks, so it's best to top it up with standard fluid immediately. From a maintenance perspective, most vehicles recommend replacing the fluid every two years or around 30,000 kilometers—a simple process: just drain the old fluid and refill with new, ensuring the system is bled to avoid air bubbles that could affect steering. Here's a bonus tip: in summer's high temperatures, the fluid thins as it heats up, so regular changes can prevent noise and failure, saving both money and hassle. Never mix different brands of fluid, as incompatible chemical properties may damage the seals.
