How to Maintain Power Steering Fluid Levels in a Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra has undergone several changes to the vehicle and its features since the 1990s, but basic maintenance is easy to perform at home for all Sentra vehicles. Checking your fluid levels regularly is easy to do and checking and maintaining power steering fluid and inspecting for leaks in a timely manner helps prevent costly damage to your vehicle.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Power steering fluid

1. Check the power steering fluid level in your Nissan Sentra every 15,000 miles or sooner if you are having trouble steering or suspect a leak in your power steering system. You should not have to add power steering fluid sooner than 60,000 miles.

2. Park your Nissan Sentra on a level surface and allow the engine to cool before you check the power-steering fluid level. The power steering fluid will read at a different level if warm than cool, which may result in an inaccurate reading.

3. Locate the power steering reservoir in the engine department. It should be clearly labeled and the level marks visible on the outside of the reservoir. Check that the fluid is above the low level mark.

4. Add Dextron-II or other approved power steering fluid if necessary. Add fluid slowly to avoid filling above the maximum level mark.

5. Inspect the power steering fluid reservoir, hoses and clamps for any worn areas or leaking spots. Replace any components that are loose or broken, since hot power steering fluid leaking into the engine can cause severe damage to your vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• Drain excess power steering fluid or dirty fluid from the reservoir by detaching the hose at the bottom of the reservoir.

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