What kind of fluid to fill in the power steering?
Many modern cars use power steering (GUR). Thanks to this device, the driver can force the vehicle to make a turn, with little effort. The working medium in the power steering uses hydraulic fluid - a special oil that circulates in the system. Its level must be constantly monitored, otherwise you can face serious problems. For more insights jump to: Power Steering Fluid Substitutes
If the fluid level in the power steering has dropped noticeably, it can simply overheat and boil. The effort required to turn the steering wheel will increase several times. Problems with the power steering caused by a lack of hydraulic fluid will reduce the vehicle's controllability. In the worst case, they can even cause accidents.
How often should the power steering fluid be changed?
Usually, car manufacturers do not specify the exact frequency of replacement of the power steering fluid. However, it is advisable that the tank is always filled to the normal level. We advise you to pay attention to the following recommendations:
- during normal operation of the car (mileage - up to 10,000 km / year), the power steering fluid should be changed every 2 years,
- if the vehicle is used intensively, it should be replaced once a year or after every 30,000 km.
Sometimes you can hear the opinion that the power steering fluid is capable of serving almost throughout the entire service life of the vehicle. But in reality this is not the case. The fact is that during the operation of the power steering, its assemblies are naturally subject to wear. As a result, metal dust and dirt can get into the oil. Therefore, a replacement is indispensable.
Where can I get information about the right power steering fluid?
Which power steering fluid is right for you? The answer to this question can be obtained in several ways:
- usually the type of oil for power steering is indicated in the technical documents for the car,
- also the information that interests you, as a rule, is indicated on the lid of the oil tank,
- you can contact the dealership and ask the specialists working there.
You can do it differently. In this article, you will find useful tips to help you decide on the choice of fluids for the power steering used in your car.
Power steering oil and its main characteristics
The fluid that is used in the power steering system has several important characteristics that must be considered when choosing. It:
- base type,
- Colour,
- operational properties.
By the type of base, all products belonging to this category can be divided into three groups:
- mineral,
- semi-synthetic,
- synthetic.
Mineral oils are characterized by a relatively low cost, they ensure complete safety of rubber parts that are widely used in the power steering system. However, such fluids have a fairly high viscosity and tend to foam. However, in many cars it is recommended to use them.
Synthetic fluids for power steering have good lubricating and anti-corrosion properties, and their advantage is low foaming. However, this fluid is more commonly used in automatic transmissions. Semi-synthetics also have good performance properties.
The composition of the fluid intended for power steering contains various additives. They reduce viscosity characteristics, reduce foam formation, slow down or suppress corrosion, and improve lubricating properties. Also, the power steering fluid, supplemented with special additives, effectively resists oxidation.
It should be borne in mind that different oils for power steering should not be mixed. When incompatible fluids are mixed, the additives in their composition can enter into a chemical reaction. This will lead to unpredictable consequences and is likely to cause significant deterioration in the properties of the oil. Therefore, when changing the oil, it is worth a good tank and only after that fill in a new fluid.
An important characteristic of power steering oil is viscosity. Modern automobiles typically use less viscous and more fluid products, which in turn are not well suited to vehicles that are relatively old.
High-quality power steering fluid resists high temperatures well, does not roll up, does not change consistency.
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