How to Track a Power Steering Fluid Leak
A power steering fluid leak can be caused by problems such as a loose connection, a bad seal or a split in the line. Once you find the source of the leak, you can try to treat it. Power steering stop leak additive is an easy way to repair leaks coming from faulty seals. You should take your vehicle to a mechanic if the leak is complex, and requires a part to be replaced.
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Things You'll Need
- Engine degreaser
- Rag
- Hose
- Car jack
- Mirror on extended handle
- Power steering stop leak additive
Instructions
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Clean up all previous leaks and grease from the power steering system. It is difficult to trace the leak when the system is dirty. You can spray engine degreaser around the power steering system. Let the fluid dry, then wash it off with a gentle stream of water from a hose. You could also use a rag to clean greasy spots in the power steering system.
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Drive the vehicle, then let the car sit until there are drops of power steering fluid under the vehicle. This will allow you to trace the leak more easily.
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Jack up the rear wheels, and put the front wheels on ramps. Make sure the vehicle is level when you raise it. If your vehicle sits high off the ground, you do not need to raise it, but you do need enough space to slide under the car.
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4
Use the mirror on an extended handle to follow the drops of fluid straight up to the power steering system. This should direct you to the general area of the leak. Look for dripping fluid around the power steering pump, seals and greasy gaskets. Look on the bolts connecting the hoses to the power steering system and in the hose lines. Leaks often occur in the high pressure hose. Look for dirt collecting in a spot on the hose; this is a sign there is a leak. Click on the link under "Resources" at the bottom of this page for a diagram of the power steering system.
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Treat leaks by adding power steering stop leak to your power steering fluid. Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak has a 100 percent guarantee to fix all seal leaks in the power steering system. In high mileage cars, the seals start to shrink, which allows fluid to leak. Lucas Stop Leak makes the seals expand, thus preventing more fluid from leaking. If you add Lucas Stop Leak, and the power steering system is still leaking, you know there is a complicated leak to fix that does not involve any seals in the system. This will help you narrow down the areas that are leaking.
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