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What’s The Deal With Power Steering Fluid?

1951 marked the first year that power steering was introduced when the technology was used in a Chrysler Imperial. Since then, technology has completely changed the automobile industry as steering without power was difficult and was often a laborious effort. After introducing the power steering concept in Chrysler, nearly every other automobile manufacturer added it to their vehicles, and history was created.

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Before the introduction of power steering, many drivers had difficulty making hard turns around the road. With power steering in the vehicle, drivers could easily make such turns.

What Is Power Steering Fluid?

Power steering fluid is used in vehicles to create a hydraulic fluid link between the back and front wheels. The fluid also lubricates different parts of the automobile to perform well, without any danger of getting jammed.

Types of Power Steering Fluid

There are several types of steering fluid:

  1. Universal – Most cars use this steering fluid, which can easily be found in all automobile maintenance stores.
  2. Synthetic Based – This fluid is used in cars that are manufactured overseas. This fluid is also very convenient because it can be used without worrying about temperature changes.
  3. Automatic Transmission Fluid – most vehicles manufactured after 1970 use automatic transmission fluid.

Thus, there are various types of transmission fluids, and you must be certain what is going into your vehicle is the correct type for your make, model, and year. Using the wrong one can cause damage to the transmission system of the vehicle.

When Should You Replace Power Steering Fluid?

Replacing the steering fluid is very important in several cases, as used-up fluid can not only cause damage to the transmission system but can also make car rides less comfortable.

Used-up transmission fluid can be identified by several characteristics, the most important of which are:

  1. Changes In Fluid Color – Used steering fluid becomes dark in color through repeated use and smells burnt. If you notice these changes in your steering fluid, the fluid may be old, and you should consider replacing it.
  2. Difficulty In Steering – If you notice the steering of your vehicle becoming difficult to control or difficult to maneuver, there is a high chance that the fluid is old and should be replaced.
  3. Debris In The Fluid – The presence of dirt and debris, leather or rubber in the steering fluid can give it a murky or dirty composition. If the fluid shows the presence of debris, you should get the fluid replaced.

Now you know all about steering fluid! To get info regarding the steering fluid of your vehicle and to get it professionally assessed or replaced, call us today!

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