Power Steering Fluid change & replacement made easy

The power assisted steering (PAS) fluid is the hydraulic liquid that is used in vehicles with a power assisted steering pump which is forced under pressure into the steering rack system to reduce the effort needed to turn the steering wheel.

Changing power assisted steering (PAS) fluid is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.

The mechanic will;

• Check the condition of the fluid and proceed if deemed to require changing
• Undo the system bleed valve and drain the existing fluid out
• Depending on how tainted the fluid was, either refill it and bleed it or flush it through before refilling it and bleeding it.
• Test the vehicle’s steering once again

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a power steering fluid (PAS) change is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

There are some obvious signs to the driver that something is amiss with the fluid as follows

• The steering wheel is heavier to turn than normal.
• When there is a squeaking or grinding noise from the unit when turning the wheel.

In addition to this, the fluid can be checked physically by removing the fluid reservoir cap (it usually has a picture of a steering wheel on it). If the fluid is clear, or bright in colour (usually green or red) then it's likely to be OK, If it is brown to black, then it has likely been contaminated.

A power steering fluid (PAS) change usually takes around 1 hour, but can take less or more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take will depend on a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

The power assisted steering (PAS) fluid should be replaced every 5-7 years. Like all hydraulic fluid, power assisted steering fluid absorbs moisture over time and becomes less effective.

A power steering fluid change generally costs between £75 and £90 with an average price of £80. Ultimately, the cost of replacing power assisted steering (PAS) fluid depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your power assisted steering (PAS) fluid replaced by ClickMechanic by selecting your car at the top of this page!

If you suspect there is any issue with your vehicle's power steering fluid or there are concerns about its age or condition, book with a professional mechanic as soon as possible to get it checked and replaced if necessary, driving the vehicle may lead to further complications and damage.

Bad power steering fluid should not result in an MOT failure as fluids are typically not part of the MOT test. However, remember that bad steering fluid can cause the steering to feel loose or stiff which is an important part of the MOT steering system checklist, seeing the steering's status as a safety-critical item.

Yes, power steering fluid should be changed according to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Over time power steering fluid can get contaminated and leave a deposit on the internal components of the power steering system. The deposit acts as an insulator, which can lead to overheating and malfunction of the system. Overheating causes a loss of pressure and makes it difficult to turn the wheel.

You will normally need to replace the power steering fluid every 2 years, or 50,000 miles. This will depend on the make and model of the car, every manufacturer will have a recommended time period to replace the power steering fluid. You can also check the level and colour of the power steering fluid yourself - if it's a brown, dark colour or is below the minimum mark then it will need replacing.

It's not recommended to drive with low power steering fluid as it can negatively impact the handling of the car and make steering harder which can be a safety hazard. Continuing to drive with low power steering fluid may also damage the power steering pump.

No, it is not necessary to do a flush everytime you change the power steering fluid. However, it is recommended to do so because of the amount of contamination that occurs in the fluid over time. Contaminated fluid can eventually cause damage to the pump if left unattended.

It can take about 5 minutes or a few startups for the power steering fluid to fully circulate after a top up. Once you start the engine after the fluid top up, turn the steering wheel all the way left, then all the way right, slowly to push any air bubbles out. This should typically restore normal steering. If you're not sure whether the power steering fluid has circulated or has bled properly it's advisable to get help from a professional mechanic.

It should be okay to use different brands as long as the specification is the same. Keep in mind that manufacturer's usually have specific recommendations for brand and type of power steering fluid to ensure the system performs optimally. Make sure to check the owner's manual and follow advice accordingly.

There are a few potential causes of power steering failure, but the most common is a loss of hydraulic pressure. This can be caused by a leak in the power steering system, a problem with the power steering pump, or a failure in the power steering rack.