When the power steering fluid is low, your steering may feel heavier than normal. Where can you find the reservoir in order to change your power steering fluid? Use our guide below.
Where To Find The Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the power steering fluid reservoir’s location will vary. Below is a quick guide on how to locate the reservoir in different types of vehicles.
Cars
Most cars have the power steering fluid reservoir located near the engine. In general, it will be a small plastic or metal container featuring a twist-off cap.
Reference your owner’s manual for the reservoir’s exact location. Here is where you can find the reservoir in the majority of vehicles:
- SUVS and Trucks: You can find the reservoir placed near the front of the engine compartment, close to the firewall.
- Sedans: The reservoir will be located on the driver’s side by the engine bay.
- European Cars: The reservoir will be positioned on either side of the engine compartment or close to the battery.
- Japanese Cars: Located next to the coolant reservoir or air filter box.
Sports Cars And Luxury Vehicles
Because of space constraints, the reservoir could be placed in various positions when it comes to these vehicle types. When placing the reservoir, design considerations will also come into play.
Typically, though, the reservoir will be placed near the back of the engine compartment or close to the radiator.
How To Change Power Steering Fluid
Anyone attempting to do this as a DIY task needs to possess the necessary skills needed for a proper fluid change. Changing the fluid will require you to have the following materials/equipment on hand:
- Gloves.
- Drain pan.
- Pliers.
- Shop towels.
- Safety goggles.
- Funnel.
- Car jack.
- Jack stand.
- Power steering fluid.
- Fluid transfer pump.
Let’s take a look at a simple, step-by-step guide for the power steering fluid changing process.
Step 1. Lift The Vehicle
- Use both the car jack and jack stand to lift your vehicle.
- Lift the vehicle until the front wheels are no longer touching the ground.
- Locate the reservoir which is under your hood toward the passenger’s side.
- Remove the cap that is labeled “steering fluid” or shows a steering wheel symbol.
Step 2. Unleash The Reservoir
- Use either a fluid pump or turkey baster to collect as much fluid as you can from the reservoir.
- Now use your pliers to disconnect the low-pressure line from the clip clamps.
- Remove the hose and use the drip pan in order to collect the flowing fluid.
- If needed, use a funnel to guide the fluid into your pan.
- Have your goggles and gloves on at this time.
- Move the steering wheel from “lock” to “unlock” several times as fluid levels lower.
- This will help to release any fluid that remains.
- Make sure your engine is OFF during this step.
Step 3. Flush
- Drain the reservoir with the help of a return hose and cycle the steering wheel with the engine remaining off.
- Clamp the return line securely to reassemble it.
- Refill the fluid up to its halfway point.
- Turn your engine ON.
- Cycle the steering wheel again before you shut your engine back off.
- Reconnect the return line and fill your fluid halfway up.
- Start the engine once more and cycle the wheel.
Step 4. Test By Running The Car Engine
- Top off the reservoir then secure its cap.
- Run your engine for a bit at this time.
- Double check to see if there are any visible leaks underneath your vehicle.
- Take all safety precautions before taking the vehicle for a test drive.
It’s always best for this task to be handled by the auto care professionals. Contact the team at Heath’s Auto in Flagstaff, AZ for more information!
Heath’s Auto Service In Flagstaff, AZ
At Heath’s Auto Service, our expertise isn’t limited by make or model — we handle them all. Whether you drive a vintage classic or the latest high-tech marvel, our team is adept at providing top-tier auto repair services tailored to your vehicle’s unique needs. From routine maintenance to intricate repairs, we’ve got you covered. Request an appointment with our experienced team right here!
