With the various fluids our cars and trucks require to keep them running smoothly, knowing which ones need flush and replacing and when can be confusing, even forgotten entirely.
Casey’s Team in Sterling, VA, aims to keep our customers in the know. Below, we will cover one of those services by simply explaining what power steering fluid is and why it might necessitate a flush.
What is power steering?
Unless you have the strength of The Hulk, this automotive component is necessary for drivers. It’s the system that a vehicle uses to reduce the effort required for turning the wheels of a car or truck. It does this by assisting the driver to have maximum control and handling of the vehicle.
Power steering is either run on an electric or hydraulic system. The hydraulic system uses fluids that apply pressure to help turn the wheel.
Power Steering Fluid
Assisting by transmitting the power in your power steering system by making it easier for the driver to steer their car or truck, this fluid makes the steering wheel easy to maneuver. While under pressure, the power steering pump circulates the liquid, enabling the hydraulic piston in the steering gear to move.
Power Steering Fluid Flush
Typically, the fluid’s color ranges between amber, pink, red, or transparent. Over time and with exposure to extreme heat or freezing temperatures in the Sterling, VA, area, the consistency of the fluid can break down, slowly damaging and eroding the steering gear seals, the pump, or the hoses.
When the fluid breaks down, it turns dark brown or grows foamy. When that happens, it’s usually a sign of needing to be changed. As seen in Casey’s Maintenance Schedule, we recommend the flush at 50,000 miles or when the fluid has grown dirty and discolored.
Fluid Flushes at Casey’s Automotive in Sterling, Virginia
Fortunately, power steering fluid does not require flushing at the frequencies necessary for oil changes, so you’ve got plenty of time to prepare between the services. If your vehicle is over 50k miles, contact us to have the power steering fluid checked, and we’ll send you a complimentary inspection report that shows the health of your vehicle!
