How to Check Power Steering Fluid | The Correct Way

Check power steering fluid only in vehicles with a hydraulic system—electric power steering has no reservoir to check.

Knowing how to check power steering fluid starts with a simple question: does your car even have it? Many newer vehicles use electric power steering (EPS) and have no fluid reservoir at all. Ford’s owner’s manual states this plainly—EPS-equipped cars skip the fluid check entirely. If your vehicle does have a hydraulic system, the process takes about five minutes and involves one key safety rule: the engine should be off when you check the level.

Does Your Car Have Power Steering Fluid?

Electric power steering has become standard on many modern vehicles, so the first step is confirming what your car uses. Ford’s owner manual explicitly states that vehicles with EPS have no fluid reservoir to check or fill.

Three signs your car likely uses hydraulic power steering:

• A visible reservoir under the hood with a cap labeled “Power Steering” or a steering-wheel icon
• A dipstick built into the reservoir cap
• Your owner’s manual lists power steering fluid (or ATF) in the maintenance schedule

If your car has EPS, skip this task entirely—there’s nothing to check, and no maintenance is required for the fluid system.

The Correct Way to Check the Level

Here’s the step-by-step process that works for most hydraulic systems:

1. Park on level ground and turn the engine off
2. Locate the reservoir—typically a small plastic container near the serpentine belt, with a cap that may have a dipstick attached
3. Clean the area around the cap before opening to prevent dirt from entering the system
4. Remove the cap and wipe the dipstick clean with a lint-free cloth
5. Reinsert the dipstick fully, then remove it again to read the level
6. Confirm the fluid sits between the MIN and MAX marks

Some vehicles have a transparent reservoir with external level marks instead of a dipstick. In that case, read the level directly through the plastic.

Many reservoirs use MIN/MAX, FULL/LOW, or HOT/COLD markings; the correct mark depends on whether you’re checking hot or cold.

Common Mistakes and What to Watch For

Checking power steering fluid looks simple, but several errors can cause problems or mask real issues.

Checking the wrong temperature range is the most common error. A cold reading looks low, and adding fluid to a warm system can cause overflow. Overfilling can pressurize the system and force fluid past seals, creating leaks. Using the wrong fluid can damage the system—check your owner’s manual, because some vehicles specify automatic transmission fluid (ATF) instead of dedicated power steering fluid.

Pay attention to the fluid’s appearance. Dark, murky, or burnt-smelling fluid indicates the fluid is degraded and may need replacement. Foamy fluid suggests air has entered the system. If the level keeps dropping, inspect for leaks around the reservoir, hoses, and steering rack—low fluid usually means a leak somewhere.

If you need to top up, use the exact fluid type from your owner’s manual. Vehicle-specific fluid type and location should come from that source; getting this wrong can cost you a steering system. When the level is low and the fluid type is confirmed, choose a quality product—our roundup of top-rated ATF power steering oils can help you pick a compatible option for vehicles that spec ATF.

FAQs

Can I check power steering fluid while the engine is running?

No. The running engine can also create fluid movement that gives a false level reading.

What does low power steering fluid sound like?

Low fluid typically causes a whining or groaning noise when you turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when parking. You might also feel resistance or stiffness in the wheel. Check the level promptly if you notice these symptoms.

Is power steering fluid the same as transmission fluid?

Sometimes. Many vehicles specify automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for their power steering system instead of dedicated power steering fluid. Some newer fluids work in both, but always follow your owner’s manual—using the wrong fluid can damage the system.