If you can’t find the cylinder, consult your owner’s manual for the location. While the power-steering reservoir is usually located in the same space in most cars, newer vehicles may place them elsewhere for economy or space. If the steering wheel is locked, you can check the key. It may wear out. [1] X Expert Source Hovig ManouchekianAuto Repair & Design Specialist Expert Interview. 23 February 2021. Check the tumbler, it wears out with regular usage. [2] X Expert Source Hovig ManouchekianAuto Repair & Design Specialist Expert Interview. 23 February 2021. Also check that the neutral safety switch or the shift linkage is in the proper position. [3] X Expert Source Hovig ManouchekianAuto Repair & Design Specialist Expert Interview. 23 February 2021.
On some cars, the power-steering fluid level can only be checked accurately after the engine has run for a brief period, and sometimes you must also turn the steering wheel in either direction several times while the car idles. On other cars, there are gradations on the dipstick or cylinder for both a “hot” level, after the engine has been running, and a “cold” level, after the engine has been off for a period of time. On still other cars, there may be “Min” and “Max” lines for acceptable fluid levels. Be sure to compare the power-steering fluid level against the correct mark.
If the power-steering fluid is brown or black, it has been contaminated with bits of rubber from connecting hoses, seals or O-rings. In this case, the car should be taken to a mechanic to see if any of the power-steering system parts need to be replaced, along with the fluid. The power-steering fluid may look darker than it actually is. If you have any doubts, look at the color of the power-steering fluid stain on the rag or paper towel you wiped your dipstick off with. If the stain is the color the fluid is supposed to be, your fluid is not contaminated.
Be sure to use only the power-steering fluid that is recommended for your car, as it will be the correct viscosity (thickness) for your car’s power-steering system. The manufacture does not recommend using transmission fluid in place of power steering fluid. There are too many different types of fluid, and if the wrong fluid is used, it may cause failure of power steering and its seals. Be careful not to overfill your power-steering unit with fluid. It’s probably better to under fill your unit than overfill it. That’s because power-steering fluid expands as it heats up and works its magic. If you fill your unit all the way to the top and then try to drive your car, the expanded pressure could begin to cause problems and might necessitate expensive repairs.
