Power Steering Fluid Service Video

Power steering fluid is the hydraulic medium that lets a small turn of the wheel move a heavy front end. The pump pressurizes it, and that pressure pushes the rack piston left or right to help you steer.

This video walks through where the reservoir sits and what healthy fluid looks like against burnt or contaminated fluid. It also shows how the pump, hoses, and rack rely on clean fluid to work quietly. In normal operation the fluid stays sealed, cycling between the pump and rack without ever touching the outside air.

Warning signs usually show up slowly. A whine or groan when turning at low speed points to aerated or low fluid. A dark brown color on the dipstick means heat and age have broken the fluid down. Stiff steering at parking speeds is another sign.

Inspection involves checking fluid level and condition, pressure-testing the pump, and looking for seepage at the rack boots and high-pressure hose. When the system needs attention, our power steering repair service covers the fix at Affordable Automotive Services.

The dry summer heat and winter cold swings around Moses Lake and Ephrata accelerate fluid oxidation. That hardens seals and lets the pump draw air into the system.

For an inspection or questions about what you saw in the video, call Affordable Automotive Services at (509) 764-0000. You can also visit your Moses Lake car care shop.