Power steering is one of the best advances in automotive technology. It makes steering your vehicle easier and means that it requires less power and effort to steer at low speeds, even in tight spaces. However, to work properly your hydraulic power steering unit needs to be kept lubricated and the correct pressure needs to be transmitted to where it is needed. Your power steering fluid is responsible for both these jobs. However, there are numerous makes and types of power steering fluid available on the market, and depending on your vehicle, buying the wrong one could have a negative effect on your power steering. To help point you in the right direction our panel of car experts have compiled a list of the best power steering fluid.
The Best Power Steering Fluid
Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid
Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002 Power Steering Fluid is specifically designed for Honda power steering systems. It is suitable for all Honda models and removes the risk of the damage that can come from using power steering fluid from other manufacturers. The entire power steering system can be flushed with just three bottles.
PROS
- Suitable for use with all Honda models
- Protects and transmits pressure
CONS
- Only suitable for Honda models
Ford Genuine Automatic Transmission and Power Steering Fluid
MERCON Automatic Transmission and Power Steering Fluid is recommended for use in Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln vehicles. The premium-quality automatic transmission fluid is a hydro-processed base oil with a high viscosity index that includes performance additives.
The fluid offers oxidation resistance, low-temperature fluidity, and superb shifting at high and low temperatures. MERCON also inhibits the formation of foam, sludge, and gum, and offers wear protection. Leak detection is made easier with the fluid’s red color.
PROS
- Offers oxidation resistance and low-temperature fluidity
- Provides superb shifting at high and low temperatures
- Inhibits the formation of foam, sludge, and gum
- Offers wear protection
- Coloring offers easy leak detection
CONS
- Should not be used as a replacement for continuously variable chain type transmission fluid, FNR5 automatic transmission fluid, MERCON SP, MERCON LV, Motorcraft premium automatic transmission fluid, or Type-F automatic transmission fluid
- Should not be used in transfer cases where MERCON AFT is recommended
Genuine Mercedes Power Steering Fluid
Genuine Mercedes Power Steering Fluid is ideal for either topping off or completely refilling the power steering fluid in any Mercedes. It offers a quiet and smooth power steering operation while improving the longevity and performance of your Mercedes. The fluid controls, oxidation, wear, and foaming, while also helping to keep the power steering system clean. The power steering fluid requires no modifications and is ready to install from the bottle.
PROS
- Suitable for use with all Mercedes vehicles with power steering
- Supports quiet and smooth operation
- Improves longevity and performance
- Controls oxidation, wear, and foaming
- Keeps the power steering system clean
- Ready to install
CONS
- Only suitable for Mercedes vehicles
CRP Automotive Pentosin Hydraulic Fluid
CRP Automotive Pentosin Hydraulic Fluid is suitable for use in all weathers, including extreme conditions. The high-performance synthetic fluid is specially designed for power steering and other automotive hydraulic systems. It can be used effectively to support level control, shock absorbers, central locking systems, and hydro-pneumatic suspension.
PROS
- Suitable for a wide range of vehicles
- Full performance from -40 degree Celsius to +130 degree Celsius
- Also suitable for use with hydro-pneumatic suspension, central locking systems, shock absorbers, and level control
CONS
- Care needs to be taken when pouring to avoid spillage
Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak
Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak is a high-quality oil that is fortified with additives that revitalize shrunken, dried, and hardened seals. The fluid helps the power steering system to run smoothly and reduces fluid loss by helping you avoid leaky seals. The fluid also contains corrosion inhibitors that protect metal components and anti-wear agents that protect the pump components.
PROS
- Suitable for GM, Ford, Chrysler, and most non-US manufactured vehicles
- Helps the power steering system to run smoothly
- Revitalizes seals and reduces fuel loss through leaks
- Includes anti-wear agents for pump protection
- Includes corrosion inhibitors for protection of metal components
CONS
- Not suitable for some Asian manufactured vehicles
Nissan Genuine Electric Power Steering Fluid
Genuine Nissan Electric Power Steering Fluid is specifically designed for Nissan cars but can be used just as effectively in most of US and non-US manufactured vehicles. The fluid prevents oxidation, corrosion, and wear, while helping to stop squealing and improving the performance of your power steering system. The genuine Nissan fluid includes stabilizer additives and detergent to reduce valve, bearing, and rack wear. Using the fluid can also help to prevent shrinkage and hardening of seals.
PROS
- Suitable for a wide range of vehicle makes and models
- Prevents oxidation, corrosion, and wear
- Reduces valve, bearing, and rack wear
- Prevents seal shrinkage and hardening
- Improves performance and longevity
CONS
- More expensive than many similar power steering fluids
Royal Purple MAX EZ Power Steering Fluid
Royal Purple MAX EZ is an advanced power steering fluid that is designed to maximize the performance and lifespan of your power steering unit. It includes Proprietary Synerlec additive technology and can be mixed with conventional power steering fluids without losing effectiveness or causing damage to your vehicle.
PROS
- Can be used with a wide range of vehicles
- Offers greater wear protection
- Extends pump life
- Can be mixed with conventional fluids without causing damage
CONS
- Does not work as well with non-synthetic pumps
Red Line Power Steering Fluid
Red Line Power Steering Fluid provides protection against wear, thermal breakdown resistance, and protection against foaming and evaporation. The fluid also offers greater heat resistance and helps to prevent both high-temperature steering fade and boil over. It is suitable for most vehicles and is compatible with petroleums and synthetics.
PROS
- Can be used with most makes and models of vehicles
- Offers protection against evaporation and foaming
- Provides wear protection and thermal breakdown resistance
- Helps prevent high-temperature boil over
CONS
- Not suitable for vehicles where using ATF in the power steering is recommended
Lucas Oil Power Steering Fluid
Lucas Power Steering Fluid is a universal power steering fluid that contains a mild seal for helping to prevent small leaks. It reduces stiffness and friction in your power steering; improving your performance and driving enjoyment. The fluid also conditions O-rings and reduces the wear and tear on all steering parts. Additionally, it stops fading and foaming during high-performance situations.
PROS
- Works with a wide range of vehicles
- The mild seal prevents leaks
- Conditions O-rings
- Reduces wear and tear
- Reduces stiffness and friction
CONS
- Care needs to be taken when pouring the fluid to prevent spillages
Lubegard Complete Synthetic Power Steering Fluid
Lubegard Complete Synthetic Power Steering Fluid is suitable for all North American, European, and Asian manufactured vehicles. It reduces friction while protecting hoses and seal. It extends the life of your power steering system and protects against extreme high and low temperatures.
PROS
- Protects against high and low temperatures
- Reduces friction
- Protects hoses and seals
- Improves performance and longevity
CONS
- Cost can be prohibitive
Best Power Steering Fluid Buying Guide
There are a number of factors that go into deciding which is the best power steering fluid for your car. The type of power steering unit you have, the make and model of your vehicle, and your main purposing in purchasing the fluid, all have a role to play. Buying the wrong power steering fluid can have negative consequences for your power steering pump and your vehicle’s performance. To help you make the right decision, this part of the buying guide takes a closer look at power steering fluid, why it should be replaced, and how it should be used. It also answers some of the most frequently asked questions about power steering fluid.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is an essential element in ensuring your vehicle’s power steering works effectively. The fluid helps to keep the system lubricated, provides balance, and helps to transmit pressure to where it is needed. Power steering fluid is a form of hydraulic fluid that is usually either silicone or mineral oil based. Others power steering fluids are made from synthetic base oil and these are automatic transmission fluids. These different types are suitable for different types of power steering systems and using the wrong one could damage your power steering pump.
Power steering helps you to steer your vehicle more easily and with less effort. It does this through the use of electric or hydraulic actuators that provide controlled energy to the steering mechanism. This reduces the amount of physical effort needed to turn the vehicle’s wheels when it is moving slowly or standing still.
Where the power steering works on hydraulic power the system works through an actuator. This is a hydraulic cylinder that is part of the servo system. In these systems, there is a direct mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the linkage that steers the vehicle’s wheels. If the power steering fails, then the vehicle can still be steered manually.
Electric power steering instead uses an electric motor as the actuator. Power to the motor is controlled by the rest of the power steering system. Sensors are used to detect the steering column position and torque. These reading are sent to the computer module, which in turn applies assistance via the steering column or the motor.
Why You Should Replace Power Steering Fluid?
Replacing your fluid is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. Failing to replace your power steering fluid at the right time can lead to a host of problems, including the total failure of your power steering pump or system. One of the difficulties with power steering fluid is knowing when to change it. Changing intervals differ between vehicles, so if you are unsure you should check your vehicle’s manual or contact your dealer for advice.
However, there are some sure signs that it is time to change your power steering fluid. You should check the fluid at regular intervals and if you notice a change in color, then the fluid is getting close to needing changing. As with most oils and fluids in your car, the darker the fluid, the more likely it is that it needs changing. If you notice a burning smell while checking your fluid levels, this is a sign that it is heat damaged and needs replacing. Similarly, if you notice debris or particles in the fluid, then it needs changing. These particles can be a sign that your seals are degrading, which can cause leaks in the power steering system. If these particles make their way into the power steering system, then the damage they cause could be catastrophic.
Other signs that your power steering fluid needs changing include noises coming from the pump that controls the movement of the fluid in your power steering system. As impurities in the fluid built, they make it more difficult for the pump to work efficiently. As this happens, you may also notice that it takes more effort to turn your vehicle at low speeds or that the steering wheel tugs against you as you try to turn.
How to Use Power Steering Fluid?
Most power steering fluids are ready to use. If there is nothing wrong with the fluid in your reservoir and no leaks in the seals, then simply add fluid to the reservoir slowly, checking the levels as you pour. Remember the fluid expands as it heats up, so it is important not to overfill the reservoir.
If there are issues with the fluid such as signs of corrosion or seal degradation, you may need to flush the system, deal with any issues, and completely replace the power steering fluid. Some fluids include a power steering leak fix that revitalizes seals as well as supporting your power steering. If you are unsure whether a fluid is suitable and before you attempt to flush your system check with your vehicle’s manual or use a trusted mechanic.
Our Top Pick
Out top pick power steering fluid is the Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid. It is specifically designed for Honda power steering systems. It is suitable for all Honda models and removes the risk of damage that can come by using power steering fluid from other manufacturers. The entire power steering system can be flushed with just three bottles.
