Now you will not surprise anyone with a hydraulic power steering system. It is very convenient, driving a solid SUV or truck, to turn the steering wheel without much effort. In order for the hydraulic booster system to work efficiently and for a long time, it is important to monitor all its constituent elements. This article will focus on such a component of the power steering system as hydraulic oil or power steering fluid.
Issues related to the varieties, possibilities and methods of replacing the power steering fluid, as well as the appointment and preservation of all its qualities will be considered. Let's start with the fluid itself. What is it and what should it do.
Definition of hydraulic oil
What is hydraulic fluid, and what kind of oil to fill in the power steering? First of all, it is a technical fluid. Its properties are determined based on a set of functions that a hydraulic fluid should have:
- transfer of force from the steering wheel to the power steering pump, and then from the pump to the steering mechanism;
- protection against friction of all elements of the hydraulic reinforcement system;
- heat dissipation or thermoregulation of power steering mechanisms.
Based on the properties, each automotive company selects its own version of the hydraulic fluid. Already from this it becomes clear that there are many varieties of hydraulic oil.
How the hydraulic system works
For a better understanding of the concept of hydraulic fluid and what kind of oil to fill in the power steering, we will analyze how the entire system assembly works. There are not so many elements included in the hydraulic power steering system:
- power steering pump;
- liquid tank;
- steering gear;
- connecting hoses and tubes.
The main working element of the system is, of course, the power steering, or simply power steering. It is he who creates pressure in the system, which is transmitted through the hydraulic fluid through the connecting pipes and tubes to the steering mechanism. Due to this, the main work of turning the wheels falls not on the driver's hands and steering wheel, but on the amplification system.
It is important to remember that the hoses and pipes coming from the power steering are under high pressure and require special attention. And they should not be confused with the "return", which goes back to the tank with liquid.
Variety of hydraulic fluids
Very often, topics appear on the forums of car owners with the question: “What oil is better to fill in the power steering?” And this is quite natural, because there is a wide variety of hydraulic oils that differ both in properties and in color. The issue is complicated by the fact that in the instruction manuals of some cars, only original oil is offered to replace the power steering fluid, which is simply not available.
Many companies producing technical fluids always offer their analogue to replace the original component. In addition, there are so-called universal power steering fluids that can be used for topping up and mixed with any other previously filled fluid.
What kind of oil to fill in the power steering "Solaris"? Similar questions can be heard in any auto shop. In order to answer this and similar questions, we will consider the whole variety of power steering fluids.
The simplest division of hydraulic oil is by color. There are only three of them:
- red;
- yellow;
- green.
Another division of oil for power steering implies the basis of the composition:
- mineral;
- synthetic.
In both cases, there may be a variety of additives that expand the range of possibilities of technical fluids.
Terms of Use of Hydraulic Fluids
Together with the question: “What kind of oil to fill in the power steering?” another is always asked: “How often should I change it?” First of all, to find out the answers, you need to find out in the service book for the car. Very often, automakers, especially foreign cars, recommend not changing the hydraulic oil at all. Bearing in mind that the resource of its use is comparable to the time of operation of a car. But for Russian realities, where a car can be operated longer than its life, and where it is possible to fill non-original fluid into the system, it is necessary to regularly change the oil in the power steering.
Each manufacturer of non-original hydraulic oil also indicates the replacement frequency. And this is usually a period of 40-100 thousand km. Without fail, the power steering fluid changes if there are problems with the operation of the system, as well as when its color becomes cloudy or a burnt smell appears. It is also worth remembering that synthetic fluids obviously have a longer service life.
Features of changing the oil in the hydraulic booster
So, what kind of oil can be poured into the power steering? Only what your vehicle manufacturer recommends. If an incident happened, and there is no native fluid for the power steering, you need to select it based on the available analogues.
When partially replacing or topping up, it is important to remember some rules:
- The green liquid does not interfere with other colors.
- Yellow oil can be added to red oil and vice versa.
- Do not mix mineral and synthetic hydraulic oils, even if they are the same color.
- Unless otherwise specified, it is best to use a mineral based hydraulic fluid. This will significantly increase the service life of the rubber products that make up the system.
How to change hydraulic fluid
If the question is: “What kind of oil should be poured into the power steering?” there is an answer, you can go directly to the replacement. Consider a normal complete hydraulic fluid change.
To begin with, we hang out the wheels of the car for convenient rotation of the steering wheel without starting the engine. Having unscrewed the lid of the power steering fluid reservoir, we pump out the old fluid with a syringe. After that, we dismantle the tank, and lower the thin hose ("return") into a container prepared in advance. Turning the steering wheel, squeeze out the remaining hydraulic oil. Now, through a thick hose, which was removed from the tank, we begin to fill in new liquid. This is done carefully and in a thin stream so that the air has time to escape. Smoothly turning the steering wheel, we squeeze out the remaining air and wait until a new light liquid flows through the “return line”. After that, we mount the tank and hoses to it, and check the tightness.
It is even easier to change the oil, only at a service station with a special apparatus. The quality of such a replacement will be much higher.
Hydraulic fluid in German cars
For a better understanding of the issue with the choice of hydraulic fluid, consider examples on specific vehicles. And let's start with the German automakers. And here again the question: “What kind of oil should be poured into the power steering?”. The Mercedes power steering, especially new models, is a very technical device that high-quality synthetic fluid can afford. When clarifying the issue, be sure to check with the original catalogs. The original power steering oil for Mercedes and BMW has a green color and its own marking. Of the analogues, there is usually Pentosin CHF11S, which can cost half as much. For example, the original oil from Mercedes is about 2,000 rubles per liter, while the similar Pentosin is 1,000 rubles per liter.
In order to accurately understand whether the selected analogue is suitable for your car, it is enough to know the approval of the automaker. For example, for Mercedes, this tolerance could be MB 345.0 or MB 236.5. Moreover, the first will correspond to the green hydraulic fluid, and the second to the red (Dexron 3).
Hydraulics in Japanese cars
Now let's answer the question, considering Japanese cars: "what kind of oil to fill in the power steering?". Toyota power steering on different models has different designs. At the same time, for the most part, Dexron 3 and its numerous analogues are used here as a hydraulic fluid. It is clear that for more recent models it is better to use synthetic options, and for older "Japanese women" - ordinary mineral oil.
According to numerous reviews, Motul oil is in good demand. Of its undoubted advantages, good fluidity in frost and the preservation of all working properties at high temperatures are distinguished.
Dexron 3 hydraulic oil is available from almost every manufacturer. These are the well-known Mobil, Shell, Zic, Castrol and Eneos. Each of them uses their own oil additives. Each company has good reviews, but in different sources the manufacturer's ratings may differ and there is no clear leader among them.
Hydraulic oil for Korean cars
Korean cars are very popular in our country. High quality, reliability combined with reasonable prices attract many motorists. Let's answer our favorite question for Korean cars: "What kind of oil is poured into the power steering?". Power steering "Hyundai" or "Kia" has all the modern qualities inherent in foreign cars.
A wide variety of models has led to a variety of power steering fluids. Depending on the brand of the Korean car, both green and red liquids can be used. Here the service book of the car, or the website of the automaker, will come to the rescue.
Conclusion
A wide variety of hydraulic oils for cars leads to some confusion for many car owners. All this is cleverly used by sellers of non-original liquids. To the question: “What kind of oil to fill in the power steering?” answer correctly, it often takes several minutes at the computer. And in order to choose an analogue that will be available and fully comply with your power steering system, it will take more time. But now, having some knowledge, it will be much easier to make a choice.
Power steering makes driving much easier. But power steering, like any other car system, requires maintenance. For example, power steering fluid does not always maintain a constant level. And in order to add fluid to the hydraulic booster, you need to know what kind of oil can be poured there.
First of all, you should find out what kind of oil the manufacturer of your car recommends. Well, in case there is no such oil, it would be nice to have an idea of \u200b\u200bhow it can be replaced. Most motorists distinguish power steering fluid by color. To assess how true the separation of oils on this basis is, I suggest looking back. The first automatic transmissions used ordinary mineral motor oil, which was tinted red so that the source of the leak could be immediately identified by the color of the oil puddle.
The composition of the oil for power steering
Power steering fluid is an oil that has certain properties that give it various kinds of additives. Despite the fact that more than 90% of its composition falls on the base, which, like other oils, can be mineral or synthetic. Its qualities are so strongly modified by additives that without them it will not be able to ensure the normal operation of the hydraulic booster. The following additives are included in any power steering fluid:
- Antifriction.
- viscosity stabilizers. They are needed so that the oil does not become too thick at low temperatures or excessively thin at high temperatures.
- Defoamer. Foam is formed when oil is mixed with air. And since air differs from liquid in that it can be compressed, foamed oil transfers the pressure created by the pump to the hydraulic cylinder piston much worse. As soon as the oil foams, the force created by the power steering will decrease so much that it will be tantamount to its partial failure. This additive impairs the ability of the substrate to retain air.
- corrosion inhibitor.
- base antioxidant.
- Coloring substances.
During the operation of this unit, the hydraulic booster fluid performs the following functions: transferring the working pressure from the pump to the hydraulic cylinder piston, heat removal, and lubrication of rubbing parts. Protection of system parts against corrosion. 
Interchangeability
Power steering oil (labeled PSF oil) of Japanese and American production can be mixed with each other if they have the same type of base. Mineral with mineral, and synthetic with synthetic, etc. Contrary to the common misconception among motorists, mineral oils do not react with synthetic oils. But sometimes when they are mixed, there are cases of excessive foaming of the mixture. The main difference between synthetics and mineral water for power steering is their different effects on rubber parts. Synthetics behave more aggressively towards rubber. Therefore, if the power steering is intended for the use of synthetics in it, then mineral water can be poured into it.
Which power steering fluid base is better
Taking into account the above, one conclusion can be drawn - the car owner has no choice in which oil (synthetics or mineral water) to pour into the power steering. This choice is made for him by the auto manufacturer.
The difference between PSF and ATF oils
Oils for power steering (PSF) and for automatic machines (ATF) differ only in the presence of additives against slippage and friction wear in the latter. Therefore, if the level in the power steering reservoir is insufficient and there is no PSF fluid suitable for your car, the best option would be to add oil for an automatic transmission that has the same base as recommended for your power steering.
DEXRON and its fields of application
The history of fluids with this name began in the year 68 of the last century, when the American concern General Motors mastered the production of an unprecedented product - gear oil for automatic gearboxes of cars they produce. The company's marketers named it Dexron. Somewhat later, this name was registered as a trademark for transmission fluid specifications for automatic transmissions. Under this brand, GM and other manufacturers of automatic transmission fluids still produce gear oils for "automatic machines", and now not only for them. And so that you don’t think that any Dextron can be poured into a hydraulic booster, here is a list of fluids produced under this brand today:
When is a hydraulic oil change necessary?
Most auto manufacturers assure their customers that the fluid is poured into the power steering for the entire life of the car and there is no need to periodically replace it. Therefore, it must be changed only in two cases: after the elimination of the consequences of a pump breakdown or after water has entered it, for example, when overcoming water obstacles ford. The emulsion under the cover of the power steering reservoir will tell you about water entering the system. And in both cases, be sure to rinse the filter in the tank. It is better to do this with white spirit or a similar liquid.
In fact, it is better to change the power steering fluid every 90 thousand km. or 5 years of operation.
What kind of oil to fill in the power steering? This question is of interest to car owners in various cases (when changing the fluid, when buying a car, before the cold season, and so on). Japanese manufacturers allow automatic transmission fluid (ATF) to be poured into the power steering system. And European ones indicate that it is necessary to pour special liquids (PSF). Outwardly, they differ in color. According to this main and additional features, which we will consider below, it is just possible to decide what kind of oil to fill in the power steering.
Types of fluids for power steering
Before answering the question of which oil is in the hydraulic booster, it is necessary to determine the existing types of these fluids. Historically, it so happened that motorists distinguish them only by colors, although this is not entirely correct. After all, it is more technically competent to pay attention to the tolerances that fluids for power steering have. In particular:
- viscosity;
- mechanical properties;
- hydraulic properties;
- chemical composition;
- temperature characteristics.
Therefore, when choosing, first of all, it is necessary to pay attention to the listed characteristics, and then to the color. In addition, the following oils are currently used in power steering:
- mineral. Their use is due to the presence of a large number of rubber parts in the power steering system - o-rings, seals and other things. In severe frosts and in extreme heat, rubber can crack and lose its performance properties. To prevent this from happening, mineral oils are used, which best protect rubber products from the listed harmful factors.
- Synthetic. The problem with their use is that they contain rubber fibers that harm the rubber sealing products in the system. However, modern automakers have begun to add silicone to rubber, which neutralizes the effects of synthetic fluids. Accordingly, the scope of their use is constantly growing. When buying a car, be sure to read in the service book what kind of oil to pour into the power steering. If there is no service book, call an authorized dealer. In any case, you need to know the exact tolerances for the possibility of using synthetic oil.
We list the advantages and disadvantages of each of the mentioned types of oils. So, to the benefits mineral oils applies to:
- sparing effect on the rubber products of the system;
- low price.
Disadvantages of mineral oils:
- significant kinematic viscosity;
- high tendency to form foam;
- short service life.
Advantages fully synthetic oils:
Differences in the color of different oils
- long service life;
- stable operation in any temperature conditions;
- low viscosity;
- the highest lubricating, anti-corrosion, antioxidant and anti-foam properties.
Disadvantages of synthetic oils:
- aggressive impact on the rubber parts of the power steering system;
- approval for use in a limited number of vehicles;
- high price.
As for the common color gradation, automakers offer the following power steering fluids:
- Of red color. It is considered the most perfect, since it is created on the basis of synthetic materials. They belong to Dexron, which represent the ATF class - transmission fluids for “automatic machines” (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Such oils are often used in automatic transmissions. However, they are not suitable for all vehicles.
- Yellow color. Such fluids can be used for automatic transmission and for power steering. Usually they are made on the basis of mineral components. Their manufacturer is the German concern Daimler. Accordingly, these oils are used in machines manufactured in this concern.
- Green color. This composition is also universal. However, it can only be used with a manual transmission and as a power steering fluid. Oil can be made on the basis of mineral or synthetic components. Usually more viscous.
Many automakers use the same oil for automatic transmission and power steering. In particular, they include companies from Japan. And European manufacturers require that a special fluid be used in hydraulic boosters. Many consider this a simple marketing ploy. Regardless of the type, all power steering fluids perform the same tasks. Let's consider them in more detail.
Power steering fluid functions
The functions of oils for power steering include:
- transfer of pressure and effort between the working bodies of the system;
- lubrication of power steering units and mechanisms;
- anti-corrosion function;
- transfer of thermal energy to cool the system.
Hydraulic oils for power steering contain the following additives:
PSF fluid for power steering
- reducing friction;
- viscosity stabilizers;
- anticorrosive substances;
- acidity stabilizers;
- coloring compositions;
- antifoam additives;
- compositions for protecting rubber parts of the power steering mechanism.
ATF oils perform the same functions, however, their differences are as follows:
- they contain additives that provide an increase in the static friction of friction clutches, as well as a decrease in their wear;
- different compositions of fluids are due to the fact that friction clutches are made from different materials.
Any power steering fluid is created on the basis of base oil and a certain amount of additives. Due to their differences, the question often arises as to whether different types of oils can be mixed.
The answer to this question is simple - the fluid recommended by your car manufacturer. And experimenting here is unacceptable. The fact is that if you constantly use oil that is not suitable in composition for your power steering, then over time there is a high probability of a complete failure of the hydraulic booster.
Therefore, when choosing which liquid to pour into the power steering, the following factors must be considered:
GM ATF Dexron III
- Manufacturer's recommendations. No need to engage in amateur performances and pour anything into the power steering system.
- Mixing is permissible only with similar compositions. However, it is undesirable to use such mixtures for a long time. Change the fluid to the one recommended by the manufacturer as soon as possible.
- The oil must withstand significant temperatures. After all, in the summer they can warm up to + 100 ° C and above.
- The liquid must be sufficiently fluid. Indeed, otherwise, there will be an excessive load on the pump, which will lead to its premature failure.
- The oil must have a significant resource of use. Usually, replacement is carried out after 70 ... 80 thousand kilometers or every 2-3 years, whichever comes first.
Also, many car owners are interested in questions about whether it is possible to pour gear oil into the gur? Or motor oil? As for the second, it’s worth saying right away - no. But at the expense of the first - then they can be used, but with certain reservations.
The two most common fluids are Dexron and Power Steering Fuel (PSF). And the first is more common. Currently, fluids that meet the Dexron II and Dexron III standards are mainly used. Both compositions were originally developed by General Motors. Dexron II and Dexron III are currently produced under license by numerous manufacturers. Between themselves, they differ in the temperature range of use. The German concern Daimler, which includes the world-famous Mercedes-Benz, has developed its own power steering fluid, which has a yellow color. However, there are many companies in the world that produce such formulations under license.
Compliance of machines and power steering fluids
Here is a small table of correspondences between hydraulic fluids and direct brands of cars.
| car model | Fluid for power steering |
| FORD FOCUS 2 (“Ford Focus 2”) | Green - WSS-M2C204-A2, Red - WSA-M2C195-A |
| RENAULT LOGAN (“Renault Logan”) | Elf Renaultmatic D3 or Elf Matic G3 |
| Chevrolet CRUZE (“Chevrolet Cruz”) | Green - Pentosin CHF202, CHF11S and CHF7.1, Red - Dexron 6 GM |
| MAZDA 3 (“Mazda 3”) | Original ATF M-III or D-II |
| VAZ PRIORA | Recommended type - Pentosin Hydraulik Fluid CHF 11S-TL (VW52137) |
| OPEL ("Opel") | Dexron different types |
| TOYOTA (“Toyota”) | Dexron different types |
| KIA (“Kia”) | DEXRON II or DEXRON III |
| HYUNDAI (“Hyundai”) | RAVENOL PSF |
| AUDI (“Audi”) | VAG G 004000 М2 |
| HONDA (“Honda”) | Original PSF, PSF II |
| Saab (“Saab”) | Pentosin CHF 11S |
| Mercedes ("Mercedes") | Special yellow compounds for Daimler |
| BMW (“BMW”) | Pentosin chf 11s (original), Febi S6161 (analogue) |
| Volkswagen (“Volkswagen”) | VAG G 004000 М2 |
| Geely (“Geely”) | DEXRON II or DEXRON III |
If you did not find the brand of your car in the table, we recommend that you look. You will surely find a lot of interesting things for yourself and choose the fluid that is best suited for the power steering of your car.
Is it possible to mix power steering fluids
What to do if you do not have the brand of fluid that your car's power steering system uses? You can mix similar compositions, provided that they are of the same type ( “synthetics” and “mineral water” should not be interfered in any way). In particular, yellow and red oils are compatible. Their compositions are similar, and they will not harm the GUR. However, it is not recommended to ride on such a mixture for a long time. Replace your power steering fluid with one recommended by your automaker as soon as possible.
And here green oil cannot be added to red or yellow in no case. This is due to the fact that synthetic and mineral oils cannot be mixed with each other.
Liquids can be conditionally divide into three groups, within which it is permissible to mix them with each other. The first such group includes “conditionally mixed” light colored mineral oils(red, yellow). The figure below shows samples of oils that can be mixed with each other if there is an equal sign opposite them. However, as practice shows, mixing oils between which there is no equal sign is also acceptable, although not desirable.
The second group includes dark mineral oils(green), which can only be mixed with each other. Accordingly, they cannot be mixed with liquids from other groups.
The third group also includes synthetic oils which can only be mixed with each other. However, it should be noted that such oils must be used in the power steering system only if this is clearly indicated in the manual for your car.
Mixing liquids is most often necessary when adding oil to the system. And this must be done when its level drops, including due to leakage. The following signs will tell you this.
Signs of a Power Steering Fluid Leak
There are a few simple signs of a power steering fluid leak. By their appearance, you can judge that it's time to change or top up it. And this action is connected with a choice. So, signs of a leak include:
- lowering the fluid level in the expansion tank of the power steering system;
- the appearance of streaks on the steering rack, under rubber seals or on oil seals;
- the appearance of a knock in the steering rack while driving:
- to turn the steering wheel, you need to apply more effort;
- the pump of the power steering system began to make extraneous noises;
- There is significant play in the steering wheel.
If at least one of the listed signs appears, it is necessary to check the fluid level in the tank. And if necessary, replace or add it. However, before that, it is worth deciding which liquid to use for this.
It is impossible to operate the machine without power steering fluid, since this is not only harmful to it, but also unsafe for you and the people and cars around you.
Results
Thus, the answer to the question of which oil is better to use in the power steering will be information from the automaker of your car. Do not forget that you can mix red and yellow liquids, however, they must be of the same type (synthetic only or mineral water only). Also, add or completely change the oil in the power steering in time. For him, the situation is very harmful when there is not enough liquid in the system. And check the condition of the oil periodically. Don't let it get too black.
One of the important points when servicing a vehicle is the correct choice of lubricating fluids. It is on them that the working efficiency of individual components and assemblies depends, which means that it is better to give preference to reliable, time-tested manufacturers. This statement also applies to the oil in the power steering system, although many car owners have no idea how to change it correctly and how often to do it. You will find the answer to these questions in this article.
1. How often is it necessary to change the oil in the power steering system
It is quite sensitive to the quality of the working fluid, therefore, no matter how good the lubricant composition being poured may seem, it still needs to be changed periodically. There are no specific recommendations regarding the regularity of this process, however, it is still worthwhile to periodically check the lubrication level.(usually at every inspection). Add oil if necessary.
Some domestic power steering repair specialists have a slightly different attitude to this issue. In their opinion, taking into account the operating conditions and mileage of the car, the replacement of the power steering fluid should be carried out once every two years (if the mileage of the car is 5000-8000 km per year). In addition, with each oil change, the filter element should also be changed (on those car models where it is installed).
If the car is operated in a very intensive mode, then you need to change the oil when the liquid darkens or a burning smell appears. On average, the oil in the power steering system is changed once a year or after the car has traveled 30,000 kilometers. Of course, this is not the only correct indicator, because a lot in this matter depends on the quality of the oil you use.
How can the car owner understand that it's time to drain the lubricant? Here there are several characteristic signs indicating that the day "X" has come. Firstly, the driver will certainly notice a change in the operation of the steering wheel, as it will have to apply a little more effort to the steering system. The second and most typical reason for changing the oil is a change in the color of the mixture. Of course, in order to determine this fact, it is necessary to open the power steering reservoir, take a few drops of lubricating fluid from there and apply them to a light surface (a white napkin or sheet of paper is well suited for this role), in extreme cases, you can just drip on your finger. Pay attention to the composition of the liquid and the presence of impurities in it.
Most often, these include small particles of other heavily worn parts and mud deposits. If there are a lot of such foreign elements, then it is better not to add fresh oil, but to completely replace it. If it corresponds to normal indicators (the lubricant is completely transparent and has no burning smell), you can simply add liquid to the required level.
2. What kind of oil to fill in the hydraulic booster
Some car owners are used to choosing power steering oil based on the color of this composition. However, it is, of course, impossible to realistically evaluate the properties of a particular liquid, taking into account only one criterion. The viscosity of the oil, the type of base and the types of additives of different compositions of the same color can be completely different. Therefore, it cannot be argued that if red oil was previously used, then only red liquid can be added, because even in this case, effective mixing may not occur.
There are three colors of the lubricant used in the operation of the power steering:
Red(the oil belongs to the Dexron family, which, in turn, belong to the ATF class - fluids for automatic transmissions, and in some cases power steering). Mineral and synthetic red oils must not be mixed.
Yellow- often used in Mercedes cars;
Green the color of oils for power steering is more typical for the systems of cars of the VAG concern, Peugeot, Citroen and some others. This type is not suitable for automatic transmissions. Also, you can not mix green "mineral water" and the same synthetics.
What is better to choose: mineral or synthetic lubricating fluid? It should be noted that with regard to power steering, such disputes are absolutely inappropriate, because there are a lot of rubber parts in this system, and synthetics have a much more aggressive effect on them, which is why the resource of the elements is significantly reduced. Therefore, before pouring this type of oil into the system, you need to make sure that its rubber components interact well with it and have a special composition.
Only in rare cases are synthetic oils used for power steering. Much more often they are used in automatic transmissions, so it is best to use only mineral compounds, of course, if there are no other requirements in the instructions.
Moreover, if you do not want to harm your power steering system, then you will have to follow some rules for its maintenance. First, remember: you can mix yellow and red oils, but in no case should green compositions be added to existing yellow or red ones. Secondly, it is forbidden to mix "mineral water" and "synthetics".
Oils for the power steering system and differ from each other only in the presence of additional additives in the latter version. They are just intended for automatic transmission clutches, which are absent in the steering. The presence of such “additions” does not affect the performance of the power steering mechanisms in any way, so gear oils for automatic transmissions can be safely used to lubricate them. For example, Japanese manufacturers have long used only one type of oil for both power steering and automatic transmissions, while their European colleagues insist that only fluids recommended by them should be used for their cars.
Some motorists believe that this is a banal marketing ploy, and if you pour high-quality, but not original oil into the power steering, this will not affect the performance and working life of the system in any way. For example, the same ZF pumps will work well on different machines and with different types of oils approved by the manufacturer. In such a situation, it turns out that green and yellow lubricating fluids are equally well suited for hydraulic booster operation, and the only difference is in color.
However, in practice, everything turned out to be not so wonderful, and in some cases, foam began to appear during their interaction. True, it is not difficult to solve this problem, you just need to thoroughly flush the system before using oil of a different color.
Mixing mineral oils like Dexron and power steering fluids showed that they are quite well combined with each other, and no side effects appear. In other words, the additives present in the compositions do not conflict with each other, but when combined in a new mixture, they continue to perform their functions.
If you are not sure which oil is exactly right for your car's power steering system, take a look at its technical manual. It should be noted what kind of lubricant and how to fill it into the hydraulic booster. In some cases, even the name of the manufacturer is indicated, and if you cannot find the right product in the store, it must definitely be on the Internet.
You can also use the information printed on the lid of the power steering reservoir: the green sticker is “Pentosin”, and if the inscription “Dextron” is present, then ATF. Finding the second option is not a problem, since a fairly large number of different manufacturers produce it, but there may be some problems with Pentosin. Firstly, its cost is higher, and secondly, it is very difficult to find it, and in most cases you have to buy MANNOL CHF. However, it must be said that universal compounds are significantly inferior to the quality of oils designed specifically for power steering, which can be the cause of a system breakdown.
3. Changing the oil in the power steering
Suppose you have already chosen the desired composition (in the amount of 2 liters) and are ready to proceed to the direct replacement of the power steering oil. However, in addition to the new lubricant, you will also need certain tools for this event. These include:
- a syringe for pumping out used oil (with a volume of at least 20 cubic meters);
A small rubber tube that will fit snugly over the nozzle of the syringe;
Container for draining old lubricant;
Pliers and screwdriver;
Jack;
Gloves and clean rags.
At the first stage, it is necessary to completely drain the used lubricant from the power steering reservoir, while not forgetting to disconnect the return hose from it, with the help of which the old oil residues are drained, followed by flushing the system. To gain access to the reservoir, remove its cap and prepare a container to remove the used oil. After that, put a rubber tube on the syringe and lower its other end into the tank. Thus, the entire contents of the tank are extracted.
After pumping out the lubricant, disconnect the fluid supply pipe to the system and, substituting an empty container, drain the remaining oil. It must be said that certain difficulties may arise at this stage. The fact is that it is sometimes very difficult to remove the pipe, and you have to dismantle the entire tank.
In principle, now you can pour a new, “fresh” lubricant into the system, but it is best to do this after flushing all the mechanisms so that the remains of the old oil do not get into the filled liquid. To complete the task, you will need another 2-5 liters of oil. Given the not too cheap cost of such a lubricant, some drivers prefer to do without flushing, but if contaminants do get into a clean composition, then they will have to change the lubricant again, and earlier than the expected re-change time.
Before filling in new power steering fluid, cover the hole in the tank to which the pipe was connected. For these purposes, you can use any materials at hand, as long as they are relatively clean and fit well in size.
In addition, do not forget to monitor the level of lubricant in the system. As soon as the poured oil flows from the nozzle, it means that there is already enough of it in the system. Having screwed the pipe back to its original place, add the remaining liquid to the tank, close the lid and remove the car from the jack (naturally, in order to carry out the procedure, it had to be raised). On this, the process of changing the oil in the power steering can be considered complete.
To add or dilute oil in the power steering system, take a syringe and pump out a certain part of the lubricant from the tank, adding a new composition in its place. After that, you need to start the engine and turn the steering wheel several times in different directions. Then, turning off the engine, pump out some oil again and add “fresh” oil. You need to do these actions until the color of the liquid brightens.
It should be noted that two people will be needed to complete the task: one will control the level of lubricant, and the second will start and turn off the engine. If an oil filter is installed in the tank, it is also recommended to replace it, or at least rinse it thoroughly.
There are certain "tricks" that allow you to increase the life of the power steering fluid. For example, at high speeds, do not hold the steering wheel in the extreme position for more than five seconds. This will inevitably cause a sharp jump in oil pressure in the system and overheating of the lubricating fluid. In addition, for the same reason, you should not put too much pressure on the steering wheel if the side surface of the wheel rests on an obstacle. To reduce the load, it will be enough to turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction a couple of centimeters.
It is dangerous to drive a vehicle with a faulty power steering oil pump. Its prolonged stagnation and wear of the rack teeth lead to oil leakage, which means that the system can fail at any time.
November 12, 2016Unlike electric power steering, a special oil is used as a working medium in the power steering, the level of which should be regularly monitored to avoid problems with the functioning of the vehicle control system. Although automakers do not usually set the frequency of fluid replacement in the power steering, when repairing a unit or when the oil condition deteriorates, it must be replaced, and when the level drops, it should be poured into the tank to normal.
Frequency of oil change in power steering
The power steering fluid is not eternal and is not designed for the entire period of operation of the vehicle. There are general recommendations for the frequency of replacement of the working fluid:
- with intensive use of a car - 1 time / year or after 30 thousand km;
- during normal operation and mileage up to 10 thousand km per year - 1 time / 2 years.
If there is a leak in the system and a significant decrease in the level in the tank, the liquid boils after a few minutes, and the force on the steering wheel increases several times - the power steering fails. To prevent this situation, before the gap is eliminated, the oil must be topped up to a normal level. And here, motorists often have problems, because many do not know what kind of fluid is poured into the power steering.
Types of Power Steering Fluid
The working medium of the power steering - PSF or Power Steering Fluid - is a hydraulic fluid circulating through a closed system of the unit. She has to perform several tasks at once:
- To transfer the force from the pump to the pistons of the unit;
- Cool power steering elements and protect them from corrosion;
- Lubricate the power steering components.
Therefore, only special oil recommended by the manufacturer is poured into the tank. The choice of the chemical composition of the PSF is very important in this respect.
Like all automotive oils, they are divided into mineral, semi-synthetic and pure synthetics. Under no circumstances should you mix them!
Mineral oils are usually used in hydraulic boosters, as they provide much greater safety for the rubber elements of the unit. For this reason, the use of synthetics in this steering element is extremely limited.
Nevertheless, each type of liquid has, along with positive properties, a number of negative ones. We list the general characteristics of different types of oils for power steering:
- mineral liquids provide excellent safety of the rubber parts of the system and are quite cheap. However, they have a high kinematic viscosity, and such oils are also prone to foaming.
- « Semi-synthetics»with still sufficient cheapness, it acts more aggressively on the rubber elements of the unit, but it has a higher resistance to foaming, better lubricating properties and better resists corrosion.
- Synthetic oils for power steering have excellent performance, except that they are extremely aggressive to rubber parts. For this reason, "synthetics" are rarely used in power steering.
Classification of oils for power steering by brand and color
Motorists can quite easily determine which liquid to fill in the power steering, since manufacturers have introduced the simplest color classification for PSF for greater convenience. Depending on the pigment added to the fluid, you can purchase red, yellow or green power steering oil.
Red and yellow ATF
Red oils are developed in compliance with the standards of the General Motors concern. They can be mineral or synthetic and are called Dexron. Today, Dexron III and Dexron IV are predominantly used. By the way, more often than in power steering, these fluids are used in automatic transmissions, therefore, in cars with an automatic transmission, one liquid is often poured into the transmission and into the power steering reservoir (usually in Korean and Japanese cars).
The main thing to remember is that mineral-based Dexron cannot be mixed with synthetic Dexron. The choice of fluid must necessarily be consistent with the recommendations of the manufacturers. These PSFs are widely used in cars of Kia, Nissan, Hyundai, Mazda, Toyota, etc.
Yellow liquids are produced under license from Daimler, they can also be mineral and synthetic based. These substances are often poured into Mercedes-Benz vehicles. They can also be used simultaneously in automatic transmissions. It is important that you can mix yellow liquids with red ones and vice versa if necessary - they are completely compatible. It is only necessary to follow that their chemical composition coincides - that is, you cannot mix “synthetics” with “mineral water”.
Green oils Pentosin
Green hydraulic fluid - the development of the early 90s of the concern from Germany Pentosin. It is widely used in BMW, Ford, Volkswagen cars. Usually, under "Pentosin" they mean exactly synthetics. This is true for Pentosin CHF11s liquid, although CHF 7.1, the earlier version sold in a white can, is mineral based.
A distinctive feature of Pentosin is not only the high price for the original liquid, but also its very high fluidity. In comparison, conventional motor oils, such as 5w-40, are 4-5 times more viscous.
To the question of which PSF to fill in the power steering of your car. It should be understood that for different markets, with the complete identity of the design of the units, different oils were poured for quite a long time. It was Pentosin that went to Russia because of the cold climate, as well as the almost unchanged viscosity of this liquid at low temperatures.
Power steering oil compatibility
It should be borne in mind that the power steering mechanisms of old cars are not adapted for the use of low-viscosity oils in them, so if Pentosin is poured into such a car, it may happen that in the harsh operating modes of the unit, for example, when turning the steering wheel in place, it will be quite difficult to turn it. In any case, if you have ordinary ATF in the tank, then there is no need to change it to Pentosin.
Moreover, nothing will happen if, when replacing, you did not pay attention to which oil was filled in earlier, why ATF was accidentally filled in instead of the prescribed Pentosin. Yes, and it should be changed only if the color of the liquid has already changed a lot. Otherwise, you can simply add oil to the power steering. You can mix "mineral water" with "mineral water", "synthetics", respectively, with "synthetics". Red and yellow liquids are compatible. But remember that the green "Pentosin" can no longer be mixed with them.
