All cars now have a hydraulic power steering system that helps the driver to turn the steering wheel lightly. The power steering system consists of several parts: the rack and pinion which is driven by pressurized oil, from the power steering pump which will help turn the steering wheel, and a tube containing oil above the pump (If there is not enough oil, the steering wheel will be heavier and the pump or rack and the pinion can be damaged by it). Therefore, it is important to always check the power steering oil level and add it if necessary.
Step
Step 1. Locate the oil tube
If you have difficulty turning the steering wheel or there is a noise when you turn the steering wheel, there is a possibility that your power steering oil is low. Power steering oil can be found in the cylinder tube near the end of the power steering belt, and it is written clearly. These tubes can be made of metal or plastic.
If you can't find the canister, consult your car's manual to find out where it is. While the power steering oil tube is usually located in the same place on some cars, new cars may have a different position
Step 2. Check the power steering oil level
If the tube is made of see-through plastic, you can see the oil level. If it is made of metal or opaque plastic, you can check the level with the dipstick, which is on the lid.
- In some cars, the power steering oil level can only be checked accurately after the engine has been running for a while, and you may have to turn the steering wheel several times while the engine is running.
- In other cars, there is a gradation in the height indication on the dipstick, namely the hot position, when the engine is hot, and cold, when the engine is cold. Maybe also on other cars there are only Min and Max. Be sure to check the height according to the markings.
Step 3. Check how deep the dipstick is with the oil
If you are using a dipstick, first remove and wipe the oil on the dipstick, and then put it back in and check again.
Step 4. Check the oil color
Good oil should be clear, orange or slightly pink in color.
- If the oil is brown or black, it means the oil has been contaminated with the rubbers from the hoses, or seals and rings. In this case, the car must be taken to a repair shop to check for further damage to the power steering, whether it needs to be replaced or not.
- The power steering oil will look darker than it should be. If in doubt, look at the color of the oil you wipe with a cloth or tissue. If the color is clear, the oil is not contaminated.
Step 5. Add power steering oil as needed, according to the condition of your car, whether hot or cold, adjust to the limits on the dipstick
Be careful not to spill it.
- Be sure to use the correct power steering oil, i.e. the correct level of viscosity for your power steering system.
- The manufacturer's manual does not recommend using transmission oil as a substitute for power steering oil. There are many different types of oil, and if you use the wrong oil, the power steering function and the cap will be damaged.
- Be careful not to overdo it. Better less than too much. Because the power steering oil will expand when exposed to heat. If you fill it to the brim, while the car is running, excess pressure can cause problems.
Step 6. Replace the oil tube cap
Depending on the type of car you have, you may have to press it, or turn it. Make sure it is firmly attached before you close the hood.
