Symptoms
- Steering feels harder to turn, especially at low speed
- Whining noise when turning the wheel
- Fluid reservoir below the min line
- Spots of reddish or amber fluid under the front of the car
Likely causes
- CommonSlow leak at a hose or connectionPower steering hoses and fittings can weep slowly over years without an obvious puddle.
- PossibleLeak at the steering rack or pump sealInternal seals wear over time and can leak, especially on higher-mileage cars.
- Less commonNever topped off, naturally low from evaporationPower steering systems are mostly sealed, so a drop without a leak is uncommon.
What to do
- Locate the power steering reservoir (check your manual; some newer cars are electric-assist and have no fluid at all).
- Check the level against the min/max marks with the engine off and cool.
- Look under the front of the car for fresh spots of reddish or amber fluid, especially near the front wheels or belt area.
- Top off with the exact fluid type specified, since power steering fluids vary by manufacturer and are not universal.
- Turn the wheel lock-to-lock a few times with the engine running to check for whining, which suggests air in the system or continued low fluid.
- If the level drops again within a few weeks, have the leak source identified and repaired rather than repeatedly topping off.
Tools and parts
- Funnel
Manufacturer-specified power steering fluidSearch: “power steering fluid for [your car year make model]”
When to call a pro
If steering becomes suddenly very hard to turn or you hear loud grinding, stop driving and have it towed rather than continuing.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.