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Can gear oil be added to the gur? What kind of fluid is poured into the power steering? Types of oils, differences and examples of use What to add to the gur.

The fluids used in the power steering can be divided according to several criteria:

  • Colour;
  • Composition;
  • Variety.

Color classification

It is wrong to be guided only by color gradation when choosing an oil, although this practice is widespread among car owners. It is also often indicated which color of liquid can be mixed and which should not.

Mixing is contraindicated in liquids in composition and not in color, and since now both mineral water and synthetics can be presented in any color, this information should be treated very carefully.

Red transmission oil ATF is usually synthetic, the Dexron brand from General Motors is considered the reference, but there are products from other manufacturers, such as Revenol, Motul, Shell, Zic, etc.


Yellow produced by Daimler and under his license oil used in Mercedes-Benz power steering systems. It can be synthetic and mineral.

Green oil. Most of them are multifunctional and universal fluids, in composition they can be both synthetic and mineral. They are used in hydraulic boosters, suspension and other systems that operate on liquids. It is impossible to mix with other colors, except for cases when full compatibility is declared by the manufacturer, for example Comma PSF MVCHF is compatible with some types of Dexron.

Liquid composition

According to the composition of the power steering fluid, it can be divided into mineral, semi-synthetic and synthetic. The chemical composition determines the basic set of oil functions:

  • Viscosity characteristics;
  • Lubricating properties;
  • Protection of parts from corrosion;
  • Anti-foaming;
  • Thermal and hydraulic properties.

Synthetics and mineral water cannot be mixed with each other, since the types of additives in them have cardinal differences.

Synthetics

These are high-tech fluids, in the production of which the most modern developments and additives are used. Petroleum fractions for synthetics are treated by hydrocracking. Polyesters, polyhydric alcohols and additives provide them with outstanding characteristics: wide operating temperature range, stable oil film, long service life.


The main reason why you cannot fill a synthetic-based hydraulic fluid into a power steering designed for mineral power steering is its aggressive effect on rubber products, of which there are many in the power steering. Where synthetics are used, rubber has a completely different composition and is made on a silicone basis.

Semisynthetics

A mixture of synthetic and mineral oils, thanks to which the latter receive significant improvements in characteristics: reduced foaming, fluidity, heat dissipation.


Semi-synthetic fluids include such well-known fluids as: Zic ATF Dex 3, Comma PSF MVCHF, Motul Dexron III and others.

Mineral water

Mineral oils contain petroleum fractions (85-98%), the remainder being additives that improve the performance of the hydraulic fluid.

They are used in hydraulic boosters, containing seals and parts based on ordinary rubber, since the mineral component is neutral, and not harmful to rubber products, unlike synthetics.


Mineral fluids for power steering are the most inexpensive, but they also have a short service life. Mobil ATF 320 Premium is considered a good mineral water, Dexron oils up to and including IID were also mineral.

Different types of oils

Dexron - a separate class of ATF fluids from General Motors, produced since 1968. Dexron is a trademark manufactured by GM itself and others under license.

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) - oils for automatic transmissions, often used by Japanese automakers and in power steering.

PSF (Power Steering Fluid) - literally translated as power steering fluid.


Multi HF - special, universal fluids for power steering, with approvals from most car manufacturers... For example, CHF fluid produced by the German company Pentosin (pentosin) has received approvals from BMW, Ford, Chrysler, GM, Porsche, Saab and Volvo, Dodge, Chrysler.

Can I mix oils

Mixing is permissible, but the manufacturer's recommendations must be followed. Most often, the packaging indicates with which brands and classes of oils one or another fluid for power steering can be mixed.

Do not mix synthetics and mineral water, as well as different colors, unless it is directly indicated. If there is nowhere to go, and you have to pour what is at hand, replace this mixture with the recommended one as soon as possible.

Is it possible to pour engine oil into the power steering

Motor - definitely not, transmission - with reservations. Below we will analyze in detail why.

To understand whether it is possible to pour other oils into the power steering, for example, engine or transmission, you need to know what functions it performs.


The fluid in the power steering must cope with the following tasks:

  • Lubrication of all hydraulic booster assemblies;
  • Protection against corrosion and wear of parts;
  • Pressure transmission;
  • Anti-foaming;
  • System cooling.

The above characteristics are achieved by adding various additives, the presence and combination of which endows the oil for power steering with the necessary qualities.

As you understand, the tasks of engine oil somewhat different, therefore it is highly discouraged to pour it into the power steering.

With regard to transmission oil, everything is not so simple, the Japanese often use the same ATF for automatic transmissions and power steering. Europeans insist on using special PSF (Power Steering Fluid) oils.

What kind of liquid to pour into the power steering


Based on this, the answer to the question "what kind of oil to pour into the power steering" is obvious - it is recommended by the manufacturer of your car. Often the information is indicated on the expansion tank or cap. If there is no technical documentation, call an authorized center and check.

In any case, steering experiments are not permitted. The serviceability of the power steering depends not only on your safety, but also on those around you.

car model Recommended fluid
Audi 80, 100 (audi 80, 100) VAG G 004,000 M2
Audi A6 C5 (audi a6 c5) Mannol 004000, Pentosin CHF 11S
Audi a4 (audi a4) VAG G 004 000M2
Audi a6 c6 (audi a6 c6) VAG G 004 000M2
bmw e34 (BMW e34) CHF 11.S
BMW E39 (BMW E39) ATF Dextron 3
BMW E46 (BMW E46) Dexron III, Mobil 320, LIQUI MOLY ATF 110
BMW E60 (BMW E60) Pentosin chf 11s
bmw x5 e53 (BMW x5 e53) АТF BMW 81 22 9 400 272, Castrol Dex III, Pentosin CHF 11S
Vaz 2110
Vaz 2112 Pentosin Hydraulik Fluid (CHF, 11S-tl, VW52137)
Volvo c40 (volvo s40) Volvo 30741424
Volvo xc90 (volvo xc90) VOLVO 30741424
Gas (valdai, sable, 31105, 3110, 66)
Gazelle business Mobil ATF 320, Castrol-3, Liqui moly ATF, DEXTRON III, CASTROL Transmax Dex III Multivehicle, ZIC ATF III, ZIC dexron 3 ATF, ELF matic 3
Gazelle next Shell Spirax S4 ATF HDX, Dexron III
Geely MK
Geely Emgrand ATF DEXRON III, Shell Spirax S4 ATF X, Shell Spirax S4 ATF HDX
Dodge Stratus ATF + 4, Mitsubishi DiaQueen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Daewoo gentra Dexron- IID
Daewoo matiz Dexron II, Dexron III
Daewoo Nexia Dexron II, Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1200
Zaz Chance LiquiMoly Top Tec ATF 1100, ATF Dexron III
Zil 130 T22, T30, Dexron II
Zil goby AU (MG-22A), Dexron III
Kamaz 4308 TU 38.1011282-89, Dexron III, Dexron II, GIPOL-RS
Kia Carens Hyundai Ultra PSF-3
Kia rio 3 ( Kia rio 3) PSF-3, PSF-4
Kia Sorento Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Kia Spectra Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Kia Sportage Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Kia Cerato Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Chrysler PT Cruiser Mopar ATF 4+ (5013457AA)
Chrysler Sebring Mopar ATF + 4
Lada largus Mobil ATF 52475
Lada priora Pentosin Hydraulik Fluid CHF 11S-TL VW52137, Mannol CHF
Land Rover Freelander 2 (Land Rover freelander 2) LR003401 pas fluid
Lifan smily Dexron III
Lifan Solano Dexron II, Dexron III
Lifan X60 (lifan x60) Dexron III
Maz BRAND R (Oil MG-22-V)
Mazda 3 (mazda 3) Mazda M-3 ATF, Dexron III
Mazda 6 (mazda 6 GG) Mazda ATF M-V, Dexron III
Mazda cx7 (Mazda cx7) Motul Dexron III, Mobil ATF320, Idemitsu PSF
Man 9 (Man) MAN 339Z1
Mercedes w124 (mercedes w124) Dexron III, Febi 08972
Mercedes w164 (mercedes w164) A000 989 88 03
Mercedes w210 (mercedes w210) A0009898803, Febi 08972, Fuchs Titan PSF
Mercedes w211 (mercedes w211) A001 989 24 03
Mercedes actros Pentosin CHF 11S
Mercedes atego Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1100, MV 236.3
Mercedes ML (mercedes ml) A00098988031, Dexron IID, MB 236.3, Motul Multi ATF
Mercedes sprinter Dexron III
Mitsubishi outlander Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Mitsubishi Galant Mitsubishi Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320, Motul DEXRON III
Mitsubishi Lancer 9, 10 (Mitsubishi Lancer) Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320, Dexron III
Mitsubishi Montero Sport Dexron III
Mitsubishi Pajero ( Mitsubishi Pajero) Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Mitsubishi Pajero 4 Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
MTZ 82 in summer M10G2, M10V2, in winter M8G2, M8V2
Nissan Avenir Dexron II, Dexron III, Dex III, Castrol Transmax Dex III Multivehicle
Nissan ad NISSAN KE909-99931 "PSF
Nissan Almera Dexron III
Nissan murano KE909-99931 PSF
Nissan example (Nissan Primera) ATF320 Dextron III
Nissan Tiana J31 ( Nissan teana J31) Nissan PSF KLF50-00001, Dexron III, Dexron VI
Nissan Cefiro Dexron II, Dexron III
Nissan Pathfinder KE909-99931 PSF
Opel Antara GM Dexron VI
Opel astra H ( opel astra H) EGUR OPEL PSF 19 40 715, SWAG 99906161, FEBI-06161
Opel astra J (opel astra J) Dexron VI, General Motors 93165414
Opel vectra a (opel vectra a) Dexron VI
Opel Vectra B GM 1940771, Dexron II, Dexron III
Opel mokka ATF DEXRON VI »Opel 19 40 184
Peugeot 206 (Peugeot 206) Total Fluide AT42, Total Fluide LDS
Peugeot 306 (Peugeot 306) Total Fluide DA, Total Fluide LDS
Peugeot 307 (Peugeot 307) Total Fluide DA
Peugeot 308 (Peugeot 308) Total Fluide DA
Peugeot 406 (Peugeot 406) Total Fluide AT42, GM DEXRON-III
Peugeot 408 (Peugeot 408) Total FLUIDE AT42, PENTOSIN CHF11S, Total FLUIDE DA
Peugeot partner Total Fluide AT42, Total Fluide DA
Ravon Gentra Dexron 2D
Renault Duster ELF ELFMATIC G3, ELF RENAULTMATIC D3, Mobil ATF 32
Renault laguna (renault laguna) ELF RENAULT MATIC D2, Mobil ATF 220, Total FLUIDE DA
Renault Logan Elf Renaultmatic D3, Elf Matic G3
Renault Sandero ELF RENAULTMATIC D3
Renault simbol (renault simbol) ELF RENAULT MATIC D2
Citroen Berlingo TOTAL FLUIDE ATX, TOTAL FLUIDE LDS
Citroen C4 (Citroen C4) Total Fluide DA, TOTAL FLUIDE LDS, Total Fluide AT42
Scania ATF Dexron II
SsangYong action new ( SsangYong New Actyon) ATF Dexron II, Total Fluide DA, Shell LHM-S
SsangYong Kyron Total Fluide DA, Shell LHM-S
Subaru Impreza Dexron III
Subaru Forester ATF DEXTRON IIE, III, PSF Fluid Subaru K0515-YA000
Suzuki Grand Vitara ( Suzuki grand Vitara) Mobil ATF 320, Pentosin CHF 11S, Suzuki ATF 3317
Suzuki Liana Dexron II, Dexron III, CASTROL ATF DEX II multivehicle, RYMCO, Liqui moly Top Tec ATF 1100
Tata (truck) Dexron II, Dexron III
Toyota Avensis 08886-01206
Toyota carina Dexron II, Dexron III
Toyota corolla (toyota hiace) Dexron II, Dexron III
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 120 (Toyota Land cruiser 120) 08886-01115, PSF NEW-W, Dexron III
Toyota land cruiser prado 150 ( Toyota Land Cruiser 150) 08886-80506
Toyota Land Cruiser 200 PSF NEW-W
Toyota Hiace Toyota ATF DEXTRON III
Toyota Chaser Dexron III
Oise loaf Dexron II, Dexron III
UAZ patriot, hunter Mobil ATF 220
Fiat Albea DEXRON III, ENEOS ATF-III, Tutela Gi / E
Fiat Doblo Spirax S4 ATF HDX, Spirax S4 ATF X
Fiat Ducato TUTELA GI / A ATF DEXRON 2 D LEV SAE10W
Volkswagen Vento VW G002000, Dexron III
Volkswagen Golf 3 G002000, Febi 6162
Volkswagen Golf 4 G002000, Febi 6162
Volkswagen Passat B3 ( Volkswagen passat B3) G002000, VAG G004000M2, Febi 6162
Volkswagen passat B5 (Volkswagen passat B5) VAG G004000M2
Volkswagen transporter T4, T5 (Volkswagen Transporter) VAG G 004 000 M2 Power Steering Fluid G004, Febi 06161
Volkswagen Tuareg (Volkswagen Tuareg) VAG G 004 000
Ford mondeo 3 (ford mondeo 3) FORD ESP-M2C-166-H
Ford Mondeo 4 (Ford Mondeo 4) WSA-M2C195-A
Ford transit WSA-M2C195-A
Ford Fiesta Mercon v
Ford focus 1 ( ford focus 1) Ford WSA-M2C195-A, Mercon LV Automatic, FORD C-ML5, Ravenol PSF, Castrol Transmax Dex III, Dexron III
Ford Focus 2 WSS-M2C204-A2, WSA-M2C195-A
Ford focus 3 (ford focus 3) Ford WSA-M2C195-A, Ravenol Hydraulik PSF Fluid
Ford fusion Ford DP-PS, Mobil ATF 320, ATF Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1100
Hyundai Accent RAVENOL PSF Power Steering Fluid, DEXRON III
Hyundai Getz ATF SHC
Hyundai Matrix PSF-4
Hyundai SantaFe Hyundai PSF-3, PSF-4
Hyundai Solaris PSF-3, Dexron III, Dexron VI
Hyundai Sonata PSF-3
Hyundai Tucson / Tussan (Hyundai Tucson) PSF-4
Honda accord 7 (honda accord 7) PSF-S
Honda odyssey Honda PSF, PSF-S
Honda HRV (Honda HR-V) Honda psf-s
Chery amulet BP Autran DX III
Chery bonus Dexron III, DP-PS, Mobil ATF 220
Chery very Dexron II, Dexron III, Totachi ATF Multi-Vehicle
Chery indis Dexron II, Dexron III
Chery Tiggo Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1200, ATF III HC
Chevrolet aveo DEXTRON III, Eneos ATF III
Chevrolet Captiva Power Steering Fluid Cold Climate, Transmax Dex III Multivehicle, ATF Dex II Multivehicle
Chevrolet Cobalt DEXRON VI
Chevtolet cruze Pentosin CHF202, CHF11S, CHF7.1, Dexron 6 GM
Chevrolet Lacetti DEXRON III, DEXRON VI
Chevrolet Niva (chevtolet niva) Pentosin Hydraulic Fluid CHF11S VW52137
Chevrolet Epica GM Dexron 6 No.-1940184, Dexron III, Dexron VI
Skoda octavia tour ( Skoda Octavia tour) VAG 00 4000 M2, Febi 06162
Skoda Fabia (skoda fabia) Power Steering Fluid G004
The data in the table is collected from publicly available sources

How much oil is in power steering

As a rule, to replace in passenger car 1 liter of liquid is enough. For trucks this value can be up to 4 liters. The volume may slightly change up or down, but it is worth focusing on these figures.

How to check the level


To control the liquid level in the power steering, an expansion tank is provided. It is usually labeled with MIN and MAX values. Depending on the make of the car, the inscriptions may change, but the essence does not change - the oil level should be between these values.

How to top up

The refilling process itself is simple - you need to unscrew the lid expansion tank power steering and add enough fluid so that it is between the MIN and MAX marks.

The main problem when adding oil to the power steering is its choice. It is good if the replacement has not yet been made, and the system contains fluid from the manufacturer's plant. In this case, it is enough to check the technical documentation, take the recommended oil and top up to the required amount.


If you do not know what is in the system, we recommend that you replace it immediately, because in any case you will have to buy a canister of liquid for refilling.

Power steering is a device that can be found on most modern cars, both domestic and foreign manufacturers. It significantly improves driving safety and makes driving more comfortable.

Despite the wide popularity of this device, not all drivers are aware of the need for timely service of the hydraulic booster. Basically, it consists of changing the oil. The fact is that for the full operation of the mechanism, a special oil is used, which from time to time needs to be refilled or completely changed to a new one. If this is not done, significant problems arise in driving: the steering wheel is difficult to rotate, it occurs with jerks, and it comes from the pump extraneous sound.

To avoid these problems, you should constantly check the fluid level in the power steering and, if necessary, top up or produce full replacement... To do this, it is not necessary to contact the service center, the procedure can be performed independently. The main thing is to follow the instructions.

Why you need to change the oil in the power steering

Power steering - a mechanism designed to enhance the grip of the car when cornering, do steering more sensitive and efficient. As long as the steering wheel turns smoothly, the car easily enters and exits corners, most drivers do not even remember about this mechanism... But when typical control problems appear, it is worth remembering that the car is equipped with an old, good power steering.

Many, in order to understand the need to replace an expensive material for a hydraulic pump, should understand how this mechanism works. Further - a little more about the functioning of the hydraulic booster.

How does the hydraulic booster work?

Simply put, Power steering is a mechanism based on a pump. It performs the following functions:

  • the power steering pump is driven from the crankshaft using a belt;
  • draws in liquid from a special tank;
  • feeds it to the distributor under pressure;
  • the work of the distributor depends on the effort on the steering wheel, according to which it helps to turn the wheels.

A torsion bar is usually used as a follower. The more the steering wheel turns, the more it turns. As a result, the channels from the tank open, oil enters the actuator and provides normal work all paired parts. Power steering is often associated with a steering mechanism. Therefore, when the oil is thickened or its level is insufficient, steering becomes difficult, and when hitting bumps or depressions, the load on the steering wheel increases.

Important! The power steering system has many parts, including rubber ones. Most oils can damage them, therefore, only special materials should be used that are intended for filling in power steering. Since it is synthetic materials that can destroy rubber parts, we use only mineral products.


How to check the oil level in the power steering

Naturally, before you add oil to the power steering yourself, you need to check its level. Many people make mistakes in this process, so the following rules should be followed:

  • make sure that the car is installed strictly horizontally;
  • start the engine slowly turn the steering wheel 2-3 times from lock to lock;
  • set the steering wheel in the "straight" position, turn off the engine;
  • after the engine is turned off, the steering wheel does not need to be turned.

After all these actions, the readings of the probe will be the most reliable, and in accordance with them, conclusions can be drawn about whether it is necessary to add it to the power steering.

Important! The liquid in e must be changed at least once every two years. With heavy use of the vehicle, you may need to do this once a year. If you find that the oil in the power steering is red or significantly cloudy, it definitely needs to be replaced. In this case, it is not worth adding fresh, you need to completely drain the waste material.

What functions does oil perform in power steering

The functions of the fluid in the power steering system are as follows:

  • the oil acts as a working fluid, that is, it transfers the force from the pump to the piston;
  • lubricates parts inside the system;
  • performs anti-corrosion function;
  • transfers heat, which allows the system to cool;
  • increases the resting friction of the clutches.

What kind of oil to fill

Quite a common question, because if you want to pour oil into the power steering yourself, you need to know which fluid to use. There is a certain classification of oils for power steering and automatic transmission. Some of them can be mixed, some - absolutely not. Many hydraulic pump and transmission oils perform the same function and are roughly the same composition. Therefore, their properties should be understood in more detail. Basically, oils differ only in the presence of additives that do not affect their properties.

How to determine the type of oil by its color

The algorithm is as follows:

  1. Red color of oils. They are used exclusively in automatic transmissions. They are divided into synthetic and mineral, therefore, you should be careful when pouring into the power steering. We do not use synthetic material.
  2. Yellow oilit is used mainly for hydraulic boosters of Mercedes cars.
  3. Green can also be poured into the power steering, but only mineral. Not suitable for automatic transmissions.

Thus, we can conclude that the oil used for the transmission can be filled into the power steering reservoir. But do not use synthetic material, unless it is prescribed in technical data sheet car.

While such a substitution is acceptable, it is applicable only in selected cases. For example, there was a trimming from the power steering, and there is only transmission oil at hand. In this case, the liquid is poured into the reservoir of the mechanism, and later it is repaired, and the oil is replaced with a more suitable hydraulic motor. In this case, you need to flush the system from the remnants of the old mixture.

In the future, only special oils for power steering need to be used. We select the material recommended by the car manufacturer.

DIY replacement

If you decide to change the oil yourself, you should adhere to step by step instructions.


How much is

When changing the oil in the hydraulic system, do not save on material. Poor quality fluid can lead to serious damage to the system, and this is a completely different financial investment. In addition, the savings in this case will be negligible.

It should be borne in mind that a liter bottle of good hydraulic fluid cannot cost less than a thousand rubles.Cheaper analogs are unlikely to be able to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the power steering.

What measures will ensure the smooth operation of the power steering

A careful manner of driving allows not only to extend the service life of the power steering, but also prevents the need for frequent replacement. Therefore, you should be guided by the following rules:

  • at high revs the engine cannot be held in the extreme position for more than five seconds;
  • there is no need to try to turn the steering wheel if the outer wheel is against the curb;
  • you can not operate a car with low level oil in power steering or in its complete absence.

Moreover, for low temperatures oil is useful to warm up. To do this, the engine starts, and the steering wheel is scrolled for a couple of minutes under a slight degree to the right and left.

The video shows how the oil change in the power steering goes:

With a long service life of the car, it becomes necessary to service parts of all vehicle... Periodic maintenance is required by most of the units and working units of the car, including the power steering. Often, work on the prevention of vehicle operation is reduced to the replacement of working fluids, including oils. In this case, the oil is replaced not only in the engine, gearbox, but also inside the power steering.

The hydraulic booster is a special device for easier steering control; without it, the movement of the car would not be smooth and would have certain difficulties. By reducing the amount of steering effort, the vehicle's maneuverability is significantly increased, which also leads to increased passenger and driver safety. In addition, the control is more comfortable thanks to the power steering, since this system evens out the movement of the wheels on an uneven road and when moving over a bump, which has a good effect on the overall operation of the vehicle.

But without special composition inside the hydraulic booster system, it cannot work.

The working fluid inside this system performs the following functions:

  1. Cooling and reducing friction of parts;
  2. System parts lubrication;
  3. Corrosion protection;

Please note that the oil fluid for other systems of the car, for example, for the gearbox, or the engine, cannot be used in the power steering, as this will lead to instant damage to the car. Mineral mixtures should be used in the power steering system, but synthetic ones can also be used.

Power steering oil change frequency

Usually, the frequency of replacement of working oil fluids inside the power steering is selected individually for the vehicle. But most experts recommend changing the oils inside the power steering once a year, unless of course the vehicle's mileage is large. During the replacement of working oil fluids, the filter elements are also replaced in order to prevent unpleasant breakdowns during travel.

With heavy vehicle use, oily fluids inside the power steering become unusable much faster. The critical amount of mileage at which there is an urgent need to change the fluid inside the power steering is 30,000 kilometers.

But it happens that the motorist himself understands that the time has come to replace the oils inside the hydraulic booster. More difficult steering can be a common cause, for example, it starts to spin hard, which leads to problems when driving.

Also, from time to time, you should check the color of the oil mixture inside the power steering reservoir. To determine what color the lubricant is, remove a couple of drops from the reservoir and apply it to a white cloth or clean paper sheet. When checking, pay attention to the composition of the oils, for example, whether they contain foreign particles and impurities, also compare the color with the original lubricant. If you do not like something, then be sure to change the oils inside the power steering system. Let's figure out what kind of oil to fill in the power steering.

What kind of oil should be poured into the power steering

Many car owners choose power steering oil depending not on the manufacturer, but on the color of the oil fluid. Of course, the color of the oil will not tell about its viscosity or other values, so it is better to know the brand of the composition suitable for your car before purchasing it.

Oil mixtures differ in the following characteristics:

  1. Additive property;
  2. Mechanical properties;
  3. Hydraulic properties;
  4. Viscosity;
  5. Colour.

By color, oil formulations differ in red, yellow, green. But some brands of oil fluids have all three colors in the palette, depending on the properties of the composition, such as the ATF Dexron 2 brand:

  • Red oily fluid is rarely suitable for power steering in automatic system gearboxes. There are both synthetic and mineral types of oils of red color, such a composition can only be mixed with yellow types of oils. This type of fluid belongs to the Dexron family, the ATP class.
  • The yellow oily fluid is used in cars with both automatic and manual transmissions. Most often oils of this family are used in German cars, for example, the Mercedes brand.
  • Green oil is only suitable for power steering in vehicles with a manual transmission type, and it must not be mixed with other types of oils. It is suitable for Pego, Sitroen, VAG cars, but please note that in cars with automatic transmission gear you can't use it.

The consequences of an incorrectly selected working staff for power steering

It is necessary to purchase oil in a specialized auto store, but most importantly, do not forget to look into the operating manual for the machine, it often contains the characteristics of suitable types of oil compositions. But if you buy a fluid that is not suitable for your type of power steering, then this will lead to unpleasant consequences.

For example, inside the power steering, working fluids can be heated to a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius. Mixtures with low-quality additives can curdle, which will significantly complicate driving even with a just perfect oil composition change. And fakes can even disable the hydraulic booster, which can become a big problem when a vehicle is moving.

When using a low-quality composition, dangerous vapors can begin to be released inside the vehicle, which can harm the health of passengers. This is due to the chemical composition of the mixture, which includes great amount harmful chemicals. And vapors can be released into the air only in the case of using low-quality compounds.

In order for the oil mixture to function correctly inside the power steering, it is necessary to select compositions with certain requirements:

  1. Heat resistance from - 35 to +110 degrees Celsius;
  2. The viscosity should correspond to your climatic zone;
  3. The quality is determined by the uniformity and transparency of the composition;
  4. Wear resistance should be high;
  5. There should be little foaming;

How is the replacement of fluids in the power steering

If the car has traveled more than 30 thousand kilometers, or after the next check of the color of the oil, it began to have an incorrect appearance, then it is time to replace it. They also change it after a year of use.

Replacing the working oil fluid is carried out in several stages:

  1. A rubber bulb or a special syringe is pumped out;
  2. Hoses are disconnected, washed out, dried;
  3. The tank is removed, washed out, dried;
  4. Install the hoses and the tank back;
  5. Connect the pressure hose to the power steering pump, and send the return hose to the container where the mining will be drained;
  6. Raise the front of the car with a jack;
  7. Fresh oil is poured into the tank;
  8. Start the engine, move the steering wheel in different directions;
  9. The fresh mixture is poured into the tank, the old one will be simultaneously drained into the container;
  10. The mixture must be poured into the gur to the maximum mark;

This will replace the oil fluid inside the power steering. Please note that it is worth using only those formulations that are recommended in the operating instructions for your car.

It is important to understand that you need to constantly monitor the quality of the entire vehicle system and replace all types of oils on time, including inside the engine and gearbox. Also, be sure to purchase only branded goods, including oils, so you will prevent the purchase of a fake or poor-quality mixture, which can lead to breakdown of the entire vehicle system. This will be especially unpleasant if a breakdown occurs during heavy traffic on the road. Follow the advice of experts and troubles will bypass you.

Replacing fluid in the power steering (detailed video instruction)

Most car owners have little interest in the power steering system. And usually the questions arise when problems occur with the power steering. For example, a rail starts to flow or knock. After the repair, a completely logical question arises: what kind of oil can be poured into the power steering so that the system works stably for as long as possible? Let's try to briefly and objectively answer this question.

Purpose and properties of oils for the power steering

The power steering oil has several functions:

  • lubricating,
  • protective,
  • anti-corrosion,
  • transport (transfers energy from the pump to the rail).

This set of functions is characteristic of another component of some modern cars - automatic transmission. Therefore, today some of the cars, especially those made in Asia, are designed in such a way that the same oil is used for automatic transmission and power steering.

Working fluids for hydraulic boosters by base type are divided into:

  • mineral,
  • synthetic.

In most cars today, mineral power steering fluids with a special set of additives are used. Synthetic power steering oils are also used, but less frequently. This is due to the peculiarity of the material of the rail seals, which in an aggressive environment synthetic oils quickly collapse.

Only the type of fluid prescribed by the car manufacturer can be used in power steering as a base oil. Departure from this rule will lead to rapid depressurization of the rail.

Also, motorists often divide liquids by color - into red, yellow and green. According to this "rule", only compounds of the same color or red oils with yellow ones are allowed to be mixed. This principle takes place, but it is not 100% correct. For example, green liquids can be created on both mineral and synthetic bases, so there is no need to talk about their interchangeability.

What kind of oil to pour into the power steering: an overview of popular formulations

There are several rules that govern the use of hydraulic oils in modern systems power steering:

  • It is necessary to strictly follow the instructions of the car manufacturer specified in the service book. Sometimes the type of fluid required for the system is duplicated on the cover of the power steering expansion tank. It is better to ignore advice from forums or from "garage masters" - such sources can only misinform you.
  • Different liquids better not to mix. If necessary, you should at least make sure that the type of base matches and read the instructions on the package. Usually, the manufacturer indicates on the packaging a short list of compatible oils.
  • In the event of a leak, it is better to fill in the wrong oil as a temporary measure than to drive with dry power steering. An unsuitable working fluid will not have time to seriously harm the rail seals in a short time, and driving with a dry system for just a few kilometers can render the pump and rail unusable.

So which oil is better in power steering modern car? There is no definite answer to this question, it all depends on your specific car. Let's take a quick look at a few popular power steering fluids today:

  • ... A universal liquid at a low price. Suitable for automatic transmission and power steering at the same time, it has many positive reviews from car owners in terms of use both in automatic transmissions and in power steering.
  • ... High quality fluid specially developed for hydraulic boosters of Citroen cars. Resistant to temperature extremes, it has proven itself perfectly when working in the conditions of Russian winters.
  • ... Time-tested liquid, mainly intended for korean car industry... Despite the well-known brand, this oil is relatively inexpensive.
  • ... The most popular liquid in Russia, massively used in automatic machines and hydraulic boosters. The composition has earned its reputation for its excellent set of qualities and low price. Used mainly in Korean cars.
  • ... Power steering fluid, used mainly on Asian cars. Differs in one of the most low prices for acceptable performance.

When choosing a fluid for the power steering of your car, remember that after 30–45 thousand km of run it must be changed, otherwise the repair of the rail or the hydraulic pump cannot be avoided.

The online store site sells power steering fluids in the widest range and at the best prices on the market. Go to our online catalog and see for yourself!

The power steering system is now no surprise. Very convenient when driving a solid SUV or by truck, twist steering wheel effortlessly. In order for the power steering system to work efficiently and for a long time, it is important to monitor all its constituent elements. In this article, we will focus on such a component of the power steering system as hydraulic oil or power steering fluid.

Issues related to the types, capabilities and methods of replacing the power steering fluid, as well as the purpose and preservation of all its qualities will be considered. First, let's define the liquid itself. What it is and what it should 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:

  • power transmission from the steering wheel to the power steering pump, and then from the pump to the steering mechanism;
  • friction protection of all elements of the hydraulic booster system;
  • heat dissipation or thermoregulation of power steering mechanisms.

Based on the properties, each car company its own version of the hydraulic fluid is selected. From here it becomes clear that there are many types of hydraulic oil.

How the power steering system works

For a better understanding of the concept of hydraulic fluid and what kind of oil to pour into the power steering, we will analyze how the entire system works. Items included in hydraulic system there is not much steering gain:

  • power steering pump;
  • fluid 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 to the steering mechanism through the hydraulic fluid through the connecting pipes and pipes. Thanks to this, the main work on turning the wheels falls not on the driver's hands and the steering wheel, but on the amplification system.

It is important to remember that 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 flows back to the tank with the liquid.

Variety of fluids for the hydraulic booster system

Very often on the forums of car owners, topics appear with the question: "What kind of oil is better to pour into the power steering?" And this is quite natural, because there is a wide variety of hydraulic oils that differ in both properties and colors. The question is complicated by the fact that in the operating manuals of some cars, only original oil, which is simply not available.

Many companies producing technical fluids always offer their counterpart to replace the original component. In addition, there are so-called universal fluids for power steering, which can be used for refilling and mixed with any other previously poured.

What kind of oil to fill in the Solaris power steering? Similar questions can be heard at any auto shop. In order to answer this and similar questions, consider the entire 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.

And in that, and in another version, a variety of additives may be present, expanding the range of capabilities 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 it be changed?" First of all, to find out the answers, you need to find out in the service book for the car. Very often, car manufacturers, especially foreign cars, recommend not changing the hydraulic oil at all. Bearing in mind that the resource of its use is comparable to the operating time of a car. But for the Russian realities, where the car can be operated longer than its useful life, and where it is possible to pour 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 interval. And this is usually a period of 40-100 thousand km. Without fail, the power steering fluid changes when problems arise with the operation of the system, as well as when its color becomes cloudy or a burnt odor appears. It is also worth remembering that synthetic fluids are known to have a longer service life.

Features of changing the oil in the hydraulic booster

So what kind of oil can you put in the power steering? Only what your vehicle manufacturer recommends. If an incident occurs, and there is no native fluid for power steering, you need to select it based on the available analogues.

When partial replacement or topping up, it is important to remember some rules:

  • Green liquid does not interfere with other colors.
  • Oil yellow color can be added to red and vice versa.
  • Mineral and synthetic hydraulic oils must not be mixed, 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 the fluid in the power steering

If the question: "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 with 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 the container prepared in advance. Turn the steering wheel to squeeze out the remaining hydraulic oil. Now, through the thick hose that was removed from the tank, we begin to fill in new fluid. This is done carefully and in a thin stream, so that the air has time to escape. Smoothly turning the steering wheel, squeeze out the remaining air and wait until a new light fluid flows through the "return". 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 from German cars

For a better understanding of the issue with the choice of hydraulic fluid, consider examples on specific cars. And let's start with the German automakers. And here again the question: "What kind of oil should I fill in the power steering?" Power steering "Mercedes", especially new models, is a very technical device that can afford high-quality synthetic fluid. 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, Pentosin CHF11S is usually available, which can cost half as much. For example, the original Mercedes oil per liter is about 2,000 rubles, while a similar "Pentosin" is 1,000 rubles per liter.

In order to understand exactly whether the chosen analogue is suitable for your car, it is enough to know the approval of the automaker. For example, for Mercedes such approval may be MB 345.0 or MB 236.5. Moreover, the first one will correspond to the green hydraulic fluid, and the second one will correspond to the red one (Dexron 3).

Hydraulics for Japanese cars

Let us now answer the question by considering japanese cars: "What kind of oil should I fill in the power steering?" Power steering "Toyota" on different models has different designs. At the same time, for the most part, Dexron 3 and its numerous analogues are used here as hydraulic fluid. It is clear that for more recent models it is better to use synthetic options, and for older "Japanese women" - the usual mineral oil.

According to numerous reviews, Motul oil is in good demand. Of its undoubted advantages, they distinguish good fluidity in frost and preservation of all working properties at high temperatures.

Dexron 3 hydraulic oil is produced by almost every manufacturer. These are the well-known Mobil, Shell, Zic, Castrol and Eneos. They each use 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 the question we love for Korean cars: "What kind of oil is poured into the power steering?" Power steering "Hyundai" or "Kia" has all modern qualitiesinherent 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 fluids can be used. Here the auto service book or the automaker's website will come to the rescue.

Conclusion

The wide variety of hydraulic oils for automobiles is causing 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, often it takes a few minutes at the computer. And in order to pick up an analogue that will be available, and fully match your power steering system, it will take more time. But now, with some knowledge, it will be much easier to make a choice.

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