How to Check Power Steering

It is of the utmost importance to periodically check a vehicle's power steering system, as this system is vital to the safe operation of the vehicle. The power steering system utilizes specially formulated fluid to hydraulically control the steering system. This fluid operates to pressurize the steering system, thereby reducing the effort required to turn the front wheels when the steering wheel is turned, as well as to lubricate and cool the steering system. Over time, the power steering system looses its efficiency as the system's fluid breaks down. Therefore, the power steering system should periodically be checked. Thankfully, this check can be conducted by simply inspecting the fluid within the system.

Things You'll Need

• Funnel Power steering fluid

Instructions

1. Turn the vehicle's engine on to allow the power steering fluid to circulate throughout the power steering system.

2. Turn the steering wheel to the extreme right, then to the extreme left several times. Doing so will allow any air bubbles within the steering system to escape in order to obtain an accurate reading of the power steering fluid's level.

3. Turn the engine off, then lift the hood and withdraw the dipstick from the power steering fluid pump.

4. Check the condition of the power steering fluid by noting any dark discoloration or metal flakes within the fluid. Power steering fluid should be either a light pink color or a clear color, depending on the fluid's manufacturer. Metal flakes within the fluid indicate that the bearing inside the pump needs to be replaced. If the fluid is discolored, the fluid should be changed. If metal flakes are present, the pump should either be repaired or replaced.

5. Determine the fluid level within the power steering pump by reading the marks located on the bottom of the dipstick. Dipsticks typically have a mark stamped into their tip which reads either "hot" or "full." The power steering fluid's level should be at this mark.

6. Insert a funnel into the dipstick tube, then pour power steering fluid into the pump via the funnel if the fluid level is low.