All vehicles that use electronic steering need power steering fluid to function well, without it in the right amount, it will become difficult to turn the steering wheel the way you want it to go.
There are so many types and brands of power steering fluid in the market, therefore, the question is, does it matter what power steering fluid I use?
Yes, the power steering fluid used in a vehicle matters because all power steering fluids are not the same and each vehicle has a steering fluid that is best suited for it as recommended by the manufacturer.
Is All Power Steering Fluid the Same?
No, not all power steering fluids are the same.
Power steering fluid as the name implies helps in lubricating the power steering pump and its components and providing the hydraulic assistance needed to turn a vehicle’s steering wheel. It also helps to prevent corrosion.
All power steering fluids are not the same as each vehicle has a steering fluid that is best suited for it, one that is recommended by the manufacturer for its effective running.
Does it Matter What Power Steering Fluid I Use?
The type of steering fluid you use in your vehicle really matters as not all power steering fluid in the market is suitable for your vehicle.
According to the design and build of vehicle pumps, you shouldn’t use just any steering fluid in your vehicle, this is because some pumps are designed to be used only with certain fluids, and using any fluid other than the recommended one can cause the vehicle to under-perform and can also cause severe damage to the power steering system.
Therefore, before using any power steering fluid in your vehicle consult the owner’s manual or check with your mechanic.
What Type of Power Steering Fluid do I Need?
The type of power steering fluid you need will mostly be determined by the type of car you own. al
There are three major types of steering fluid to choose from, they are:
- The automatic transmission fluid
- The synthetic power steering fluid, and
- The conventional or universal power steering fluid.
Automatic transmission fluid works best in domestic vehicles that are manufactured before the 21st century. The universal power steering fluid is used in modern vehicles while synthetic power steering fluid should be used in vehicles manufactured overseas because regardless of the temperature, it flows well and also helps to extend the life of the steering wheel.
It is important that you use a power steering fluid that meets the specifications of your vehicle as stated in the owner’s manual. You can also find the information on the manufacturer’s website or on the reservoir cap.
What Happens if I Use the Wrong Power Steering Fluid?
If you use the wrong power steering fluid for your vehicle,
It Affects the Vehicle’s Performance
One of the many things that can happen if you use the wrong power steering fluid in your vehicle is that it will affect the performance of the steering wheel.
The right power steering fluid in the steering system is supposed to provide the hydraulic assistance that is needed to turn the steering wheel. When the wrong one is used, it becomes difficult for this to be done effectively thereby reducing the vehicle’s performance.
It Degrades Seal and Tears Up the Pump
By design and build by the manufacturer, a vehicle’s pump and seal should use only power steering fluid that is compatible with it. Using the wrong steering fluid will degrade the pump and seal and cause them to fail quickly.
If you have been having issues with your steering pump and seal you may want to check to know if you are using the right steering fluid.
It Causes Extensive Damage to the Steering System
If you continue using the wrong power steering fluid in your vehicle, you will eventually have to deal with a damaged steering system.
Using the wrong steering fluid over time will damage more parts of the steering system. If you realize your mistake in time, you can switch back to the recommended fluid.
Can you Mix Old Power Steering Fluid with New Fluid?
Yes, you can mix old power steering fluid with new fluid.
It is always easier if you are topping up the power steering fluid in its reservoir by simply adding the new fluid to the old fluid. Doing this shouldn’t pose a problem.
However, if you are doing routine maintenance or servicing and changing the fluids in the vehicle, it will be better to flush out the old fluid no matter how small it is, and pour new fluid into the reservoir.
If the fluid has been in there for a long-time, chances are that it has absorbed moisture and become less effective, therefore, it will be in your best interest to replace it with new fluid.
Can the Wrong Power Steering Fluid Cause Hard Steering?
Using the wrong power steering fluid is unlikely to cause hard steering, this is because the wrong fluid is still able to lubricate the power steering pump and the steering component enough for it to turn.
Dealing with hard steering is dangerous as it can put you and other road users at risk of an accident as it becomes difficult for you to turn the wheel as you wish or it turns slowly.
The most likely cause of hard steering will be low power steering fluid and a malfunctioning steering pump amongst others.
Can you Mix Power Steering Fluid?
Yes, you can mix power steering fluid provided it meets the same standard. However, when mixing a power steering fluid, ensure it is of the brand as recommended by the manufacturer, and the type used before.
It will be no as it is always safer and better for the steering system if you use the recommended fluid or if you have a brand of steering fluid you always use rather than mixing brands.
Although it is okay to combine power steering fluid, why risk mixing when you are not sure what the outcome will be in the long run? Not mixing is a good way to prevent potential issues from coming up with the steering system.
Conclusion
Being nonchalant about the type of steering fluid used in the vehicle is dangerous as it can lead to serious damage to the steering system. Not sure which steering fluid to use? Check the owner’s manual for recommendations.