Steering fluid. What to fill in the power steering - types of fluids and principles of their compatibility

All power steering fluids differ from each other, not only in color, but also in their characteristics: oil composition, density, viscosity, mechanical properties and other hydraulic indicators.

Therefore, if you are concerned about the long and stable operation of your car’s hydraulic power steering, you need to follow the operating rules, change the fluid in the power steering on time and fill it with the best quality fluid. To operate the power steering pump two types of liquids are used- mineral or synthetic, in combination with additives that play a major role in the operation of the hydraulic booster.

It is quite difficult to determine the best power steering fluid, because according to the manufacturer’s recommendation, it is better to pour the prescribed brand into a particular car. And since not all drivers comply with this requirement, we will try to compile a list of the 15 best power steering fluids that have inspired the most confidence and have collected many positive reviews.

Please note that The following fluids are poured into the power steering:

• regular ATF, as in an automatic transmission;
• Dexron (II - VI), the same as ATP liquid, only a different set of additives;
• PSF (I - IV);
• Multi HF.

Therefore, the TOP of the best power steering fluids will consist of similar categories, respectively.

So, which power steering fluid is best to choose from all those on the market?

Note that PSF hydraulic fluids are from automakers (VAG, Honda, Mitsubishs, Nissan, General Motors and others) do not participate, since each of them has his own original oil for hydraulic booster. Let’s compare and highlight only analogue liquids that are universal and suitable for most cars.

Best Multi HF

Hydraulic oil Motul Multi HF. Multifunctional and high-tech green synthetic fluid for hydraulic systems. Designed specifically for latest generation cars that are equipped with such systems as: power steering, hydraulic shock absorbers, hydraulic opening roof, etc. Reduces system noise, especially in low temperatures. It has anti-wear, anti-corrosion and anti-foam properties.

Can be chosen as an alternative to the original PSF, since it is designed for hydraulic drives: power steering, shock absorbers, etc.

Has a large list of approvals:

• CHF 11 S, CHF 202 ;
• LDA, LDS;
• VW 521-46 (G002 000 / G004 000 M2);
• BMW 81.22.9.407.758;
• PORSCHE 000.043.203.33;
• MB 345.0;
• GM 1940 715/766/B 040 0070 (OPEL);
• FORD M2C204-A;
• VOLVO STD. 1273.36;
• MAN M3289 (3623/93);
• FENDT X902.011.622;
• Chrysler MS 11655;
• Peugeot H 50126;
• And many others.

Reviews

• - On my focus there was a strong whistle from the power steering pump, after replacing it with that fluid, everything went away as if by hand.
• - I'm going to Chevrolet Aveo, Dextron fluid was filled in, the pump squealed loudly, they recommended changing it, I chose this fluid, the steering wheel became a little tighter, but the squealing immediately disappeared.

• Pros:
• Has approvals for almost all car brands;
• Can be mixed with similar oils;
• Designed to work in hydraulic pumps under heavy load.

• Minuses:
• Very high price (from 1000 rub.)

Pentosin CHF 11S. Dark green synthetic high quality hydraulic fluid, used by BMW, Ford, Chrysler, GM, Porsche, Saab and Volvo manufacturers. It can be poured not only into the hydraulic booster, but also into the air suspension, shock absorbers and other vehicle systems that require filling of such liquid. Pentosin CHF 11S Central Hydraulic Fluid is suitable for use on vehicles in extreme conditions, as it has an excellent temperature-viscosity balance and can perform its functions from -40°C to 130°C. A distinctive feature is not only the high price, but also quite high fluidity - viscosity indicators are about 6-18 mm²/s (at 100 and 40 degrees). For example, for its analogues from other manufacturers according to the FEBI, SWAG, Ravenol standards they are 7-35 mm²/s. Solid track record of approvals from leading automakers.

This popular brand PSF is used off the assembly line by German auto giants. It can be used in any car except Japanese ones without any harm to the power steering system.

Tolerances:

• DIN 51 524T3
• Audi/VW TL 52 146.00
• Ford WSS-M2C204-A
• MAN M3289
• Bentley RH 5000
• ZF TE-ML 02K
• GM/Opel
• Chrysler
• Dodge

Reviews

• - Not a bad liquid, no chips are formed, but it is very aggressive towards aluminum, plastic and seals.
• - After the replacement on my VOLVO S60, a smoother steering motion and quieter power steering operation immediately became noticeable. The howling sounds when the power steering operates in extreme positions have disappeared.
• - I decided to choose Pentosin, although our price is 900 rubles. per liter, but confidence in the car is more important... It’s -38 outside again, the flight is normal.
• - I live in Novosibirsk, in harsh winters the steering wheel turns like a KRAZ, I had to try a lot of different fluids, I did a frosty test, I took 8 popular brands with ATF, Dexron, PSF and CHF fluids. So mineral Dextron became like plasticine, PSF was better, but Pentosin turned out to be the most liquid.

• Pros:
• An extremely inert liquid, it can be mixed with ATF, although it will only provide maximum benefit in its pure form.
• Sufficiently frost-resistant;
• Can be used both on VAZ and premium cars.
• Record holder for compatibility with various seals.

• Minuses:
• It does not eliminate pump noise if it existed before replacement, but is only designed to maintain the previous condition.
• Quite a high price from 800 rubles.

Comma PSF MVCHF. Semi-synthetic hydraulic fluid for power steering, central hydraulic systems and adjustable air-hydraulic suspensions. It can also be used in some stability control systems, air conditioners, and hydraulic systems for folding roofs. Compatible with Dexron, CHF11S and CHF202 specification fluids. Like all multi-liquids and some PSFs, it is green in color.

Suitable for some car models: Audi, Seat, VW, Skoda, BMW, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Mercedes, Mini, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Saab, Volvo, MAN, which require this type of hydraulic fluid.

Meets the following specifications:

• VW/Audi G 002 000/TL52146
• BMW 81.22.9.407.758
• Opel B040.0070
• MB 345.00
• Porsche 000.043.203.33
• MAN 3623/93 CHF11S
• ISO 7308
• DIN 51 524T2

Reviews

• - Comma PSF is comparable to Mobil Synthetic ATF, it does not freeze in severe frosts, the package says up to -54, I don’t know, but -25 flows without problems.

• Pros:
• Has approvals for almost all European cars;
• Does well in the cold;
• Relatively low price for a quality product (from 600 rubles per liter);
• Meets Dexron specifications.

• Minuses:
• Unlike similar PSF from the same company or other analogues, this type of hydraulic fluid cannot be mixed with other ATF and power steering fluids!

RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid- hydraulic fluid from Germany. Fully synthetic. Unlike most Multi or PSF fluids, it is the same color as ATF - red. It has a consistently high viscosity index and high oxidation resistance. It is produced on the basis of hydrocracking base oil with the addition of polyalphaolefins with the addition of a special complex of additives and inhibitors. Is a special semi-synthetic fluid for power steering modern cars. In addition to the hydraulic booster, it is used in all types of transmissions (manual transmission, automatic transmission, gearbox and axles). According to the manufacturer, it has high thermal stability and can withstand low temperatures down to -40°C.

If it is not possible to buy original hydraulic fluid, this a good choice for Korean or Japanese car for a nice price.

Compliance with the requirements:

• Citroen/Peugeot 9735EJ for C-Crosser/9735EJ for PEUGEOT 4007
• Ford WSA-M2C195-A
• HONDA PSF-S
• Hyundai PSF-3
• KIA PSF-III
• MAZDA PSF
• MITSUBISHI DIAMOOND PSF-2M
• Subaru PS Fluid
• Toyota PSF-EH

Reviews

• - Changed it on my own Hyundai Santa Fe, I filled it in instead of the original because I don’t see the point in paying twice as much. Everything is fine. The pump does not make noise.

• Pros:
• Neutral with respect to rubber sealing materials and non-ferrous metals;
• Has a stable oil film capable of protecting parts in any extreme temperatures;
• Affordable price up to 500 rubles. per liter

• Minuses:
• It has approvals mainly only from Korean and Japanese automakers.

LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil- green hydraulic oil is a fully synthetic fluid with a zinc-free additive package. It was developed in Germany and guarantees the flawless operation of such hydraulic systems as: power steering, hydropneumatic suspension, shock absorbers, support for the active engine damping system. It has multi-purpose applications, but is not used by all major major European automakers and does not have approvals from Japanese and Korean automakers.

Can also be used in systems designed for traditional ATF oils. The product achieves its greatest effectiveness when not mixed with other liquids.

A good liquid that you can not be afraid to pour into many European cars is simply irreplaceable in regions from harsh winters, but the price tag makes it inaccessible for many.

Complies with tolerances:

• VW TL 52146 (G002 000/G004 000)
• BMW 81 22 9 407 758
• Fiat 9.55550-AG3
• Citroen LHM
• Ford WSSM2C 204-A
• Opel 1940 766
• MB 345.0
• ZF TE-ML 02K

Reviews

• - I live in the north, I drive a Cadillac SRX when -40 there were problems with the hydraulics, I tried to fill it with Zentralhydraulik-Oil, although there is no approval, but only a Ford, I took a risk, for the fourth winter I drive everything OK.
• - I have a BMW, I used to fill it with the original Pentosin CHF 11S, and since last winter I switched to this fluid, the steering wheel turns much easier than with ATF.
• - I drove 27 thousand km in my Opel in a year in a temperature range from -43 to +42°C. The power steering does not hum when starting, but in the summer it seemed that the fluid was a little thin because when turning the steering wheel in place, there was a feeling of friction between the shaft and the rubber.

• Pros:
• Good viscosity characteristics over a wide temperature range;
• Versatility of use.

• Minuses:
• As for a price tag of 1000 rubles. and with good characteristics, it has a small number of approvals and recommendations for use in different brands of cars.

The best Dexron fluids

Semi-synthetic transmission fluid Motul DEXRON III is a product of technosynthesis. Red oil is intended for any systems that require fluid of DEXRON and MERCON standards, namely: automatic boxes, power steering, hydrostatic transmission. Motul DEXRON III has easy fluidity in extreme cold and has a stable oil film even at high temperatures. This gear oil can be used where the use of DEXRON II D, DEXRON II E and DEXRON III fluids is recommended.

Dextron 3 from Motul is a worthy competitor to the original from GM, and even surpasses it.

Complies with standards:

• GENERAL MOTORS DEXRON III G
• FORD MERCON
• MB 236.5
• ALLISON C-4 – CATERPILLAR TO-2

Price from 550 rubles.

Reviews

• - I replaced it on my Mazda CX-7 and now you can turn the steering wheel with just one finger.

• Pros:
• Ability to cope with its task in a wide temperature range;
• Applicability in power steering of several classes of Dextron.

• Minuses:
• Not noticed.

Febi 32600 DEXRON VI for the most demanding automatic transmissions and steering columns with power steering, which require filling with Dextron 6 class transmission fluid. Also recommended for replacement in mechanisms requiring DEXRON II and DEXRON III oils. Manufactured (and bottled) in Germany from high quality base oils and the latest generation additive package. Of all the power steering fluids presented, ATF Dexron has the most suitable viscosity for use in power steering, as an alternative to the special PSF fluid.

Phoebe 32600 is the best analogue of the original fluid in both automatic transmissions and power steering of German automakers.

Has a number of the latest approvals:

• DEXRON VI
• VOITH H55.6335.3X
• Mercedes MB 236.41
• Opel 1940 184
• Vauxhall 93165414
• BMW 81 22 9 400 275 (and others)

Price from 450 rub.

Reviews

• - I bought an Opel Mokka for my car, there are no complaints or any changes for the worse. Good oil for a reasonable price.
• - I changed the fluid in the steering wheel of a BMW E46, I immediately took Pentosin, but after a week the steering wheel began to turn hard, I changed it again but with Febi 32600, I’ve been using it for more than a year now, everything is fine.

• Pros:
• Can be replaced instead of Dextron liquid lower class;
• It has a good degree of viscosity for universal ATF in the box and power steering.

• Minuses:
• Approvals only from American and European auto giants.

Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus is a universal all-season gear oil. Intended for use in automatic transmissions, rotation converters, power steering and hydraulic clutches. Like all liquids, Dexron and Mercon are red in color. Carefully selected additives and synthetic components provide the best friction properties at the moment of gear shifting, excellent low-temperature characteristics, high antioxidant and chemical stability throughout the entire service life. It has good anti-foaming and air-displacing properties. The manufacturer stated that the transmission fluid is chemically neutral to any sealing materials, but tests have shown that it causes corrosion of parts made of copper alloys. Made in Germany.

The product has approvals:

• ALLISON C4/TES 389
• CATERPILLAR TO-2
• FORD MERCON V
• FORD M2C138-CJ/M2C166-H
• GM DEXRON III H/G/F
• MB 236.1
• PSF applications
• VOITH G.607
• ZF-TE-ML 09/11/14

Price from 220 rub.

Reviews

• - I use Mannol Automatic Plus in my Volga, it can withstand frosts of minus 30, there are no complaints about the sounds or difficulties in turning the steering wheel, the operation of the hydraulic booster with this fluid is quiet.
• - I have been using MANNOL ATF Dexron III in power steering for two years now, no problems.

• Pros:
• Low dependence of viscosity on operating temperature;
• Low price.

• Minuses:
• Aggressive to copper alloys.

Castrol DEXRON VI- red transmission fluid for automatic transmissions. Low-viscosity gear oil, designed to work in modern automatic transmissions with maximum fuel efficiency. Manufactured in Germany from high-quality base oils with a balanced additive package. Has Ford (Mercon LV) and GM (Dexron VI) approvals and exceeds Japanese JASO 1A requirements.

If it is not possible to buy the original ATF Dexron for a Japanese or Korean car, then Castrol Dexron 6 is a worthy replacement.

Meets Specification:

• Toyota T, T II, ​​T III, T IV, WS
• Nissan Matic D, J, S
• Mitsubishi SP II, IIM, III, PA, J3, SP IV
• Mazda ATF M-III, M-V, JWS 3317, FZ
• Subaru F6, Red 1
• Daihatsu AMMIX ATF D-III Multi, D3-SP
• Suzuki AT Oil 5D06, 2384K, JWS 3314, JWS 3317
• Hyundai/Kia SP III, SP IV
• Honda/Acura DW 1/Z 1

Price From 600 rub.

Reviews

• - On my Aveo they write that you need to fill the power steering with Dextron 6, I took it from a Castrol Transmax DEX-VI store, it seems like it’s only for automatic transmissions, they said it’s also good for hydraulics, since it was regulated by the pricing policy, so that it’s not the cheapest, but also expensive money it's a pity. There is very little information and reviews on this liquid, but I have no complaints, the steering wheel turns without sounds or difficulties.

• Pros:
• An additive package that provides good corrosion protection for copper alloys;
• Meets many specifications of most global automakers.

• Minuses:
• No information available for use in hydraulic transmissions and power steering.

Transmission oil ENEOS Dexron ATF III can be used in Step-tronic, Tip-tronic, automatic transmissions and power steering systems. High thermal-oxidative stability can ensure transmission cleanliness for more than 50 thousand kilometers. Red liquid ENEOS Dexron III, reminiscent of raspberry-cherry syrup, contains special anti-foaming additives with good air-displacing properties. Meets the latest requirements from GM Dexron manufacturers. It is most often found on sale in 4-liter tin cans, but liter ones are also found. The manufacturer may be Korea or Japan. Frost resistance at -46°C.

If you choose an oil for an automatic transmission, then ENEOS ATF Dexron III could be in the top three, but as an analogue for power steering it only closes the top five best fluids.

The list of tolerances and specifications is small:

• DEXRON III;
• G 34088;
• Allison C-3, C-4;
• Caterpillar: TO-2.

Price from 400 rub. per jar 0.94 l.

Reviews

• - I’ve been using it for 3 years, changed both in the box and in the power steering on a Mitsubishi Lancer X, Mazda Familia, excellent oil, does not lose its properties.
• - I took a Daewoo Espero for automatic transmission replacement, after partial filling I’ve been driving it for more than six months, I haven’t noticed any problems.
• - I poured Santa Fe into the box, as for me Mobile is better, it seems to lose its properties faster, but this is only relative to the automatic transmission, I haven’t tried how it behaves in the power steering.

• Pros:
• Some of the best lubricating properties;
• Tolerates very low temperatures well.

• Minuses:
• Aggressive to parts made of copper alloys.

The best ATF fluids for power steering

Liquid Mobil ATF 320 Premium has a mineral composition. Place of application - automatic transmissions and power steering, which require Dexron III level oils. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Mixes without consequences with red ATP fluids of the Dextron 3 classification. Compatible with all conventional seal materials used in transmission mechanisms.

Mobile ATF 320 will not only be an excellent choice as an analog for filling into an automatic transmission, but also a good option, in terms of its behavior and characteristics, in a power steering system.

Meets Specifications:

• ATF Dexron III
• GM Dexron III
• ZF TE-ML 04D
• Ford Mercon M931220

Price starts from 360 rub..

What do you know about power steering oil? Most likely, you received most of the information from car manufacturers or from the Internet. In fact, half of the advice from Internet experts and automakers is deception.

Stop living in ignorance - it's time to find out the whole truth about power steering oils.

Useful information on power steering fluids

Power steering oil is the working fluid that transmits pressure from the power steering pump to the rack rod piston. Other functions of the liquid:

• cools and lubricates power steering components;
• protects the metal elements of the power steering from rust.

There are a lot of hydraulic oils on the market and it’s easy to get confused in this variety. To distinguish liquids, pay attention to color and chemical composition. The colors of the oils are red, yellow and green. Based on their chemical composition, oils are divided into mineral and synthetic. Let's take a closer look and start with color features.

Red oils

Red hydraulic fluid is a development of the General Motors concern, which produces mineral and synthetic fluids. The most common red mineral oils are Dexron II and Dexron III, and synthetic oils are ATF and its derivatives.

Red mineral power steering oil GM Dexron II

Red fluids are used for steering and automatic transmissions, which is why these oils are often called transmission oils.

The oils contain additives for automatic transmission clutches. These impurities do not affect the operation of the hydraulic booster in any way. Therefore, you can not be afraid and pour red oil into both the power steering and automatic transmission. For example, in Japan there is no division at all into transmission and hydraulic oils, and one type of fluid is used for these systems.

Red oil is often used in American, Asian and European stamps cars.

Yellow oils

Mineral yellow fluids are used only in power steering. Synthetic oils are poured into hydraulic boosters and used in hydraulic suspension.

The main manufacturer of yellow mineral power steering oil is Daimler AG. It goes without saying that this oil is most often found in cars of brands that belong to the concern - Mercedes-Benz, Smart, AMG and Maybach.

The most popular brands of yellow synthetic oil are Total and Mobil. Yellow synthetics are often found in Citroen cars, and the oil is used both in the hydraulic booster and in the hydraulic suspension.

Green oils

Green power steering oils are mineral and synthetic. Green oils are used only in power steering.

Most of the mineral and synthetic green oils on the Ukrainian market are products of the VAG concern. These oils are most often found in cars of the VAG group brands - Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Porsche, Lamborghini, Bugatti, Seat, Skoda, Scania and MAN. Mercedes-Benz also produces its own line of green mineral water for power steering.

Green synthetic power steering oil VAG

Another popular manufacturer of synthetic green power steering oils is BMW. The manufacturer produces Pentosin brand oil, which is used in most BMW cars.

Of course, there are other oil manufacturers, but they make power steering fluids according to the technologies and standards of the companies described above. Other companies simply buy the rights to produce certain oils.

IMPORTANT! All brands and manufacturers described above are provided as examples only, so that you understand what we are talking about. We are not trying to promote these brands or say that they are better than others.

We've sorted out the colors of oils, now let's move on to the chemical compositions on which the properties of liquids and additives, as well as the viscosity of the oil, depend.

How is mineral fluid different from synthetic fluid?

• The basis of mineral waters is purified petroleum fractions, for example, paraffins and naphthenes. The mineral base makes up up to 97% of the total oil volume, and the remaining 3% are additives that improve its characteristics.
• At the core synthetic oils- polyhydric alcohols (ethylene glycol or propylene glycol) and petroleum fractions, which are purified by hydrocracking. Specific gravity alcohols and petroleum fractions - 92-97% of the total volume of oil. The rest is various polyesters and additives.
• Mineral oils are usually 2-3 times cheaper than synthetic ones;
• Mineral oils can withstand temperatures from -40 to +90 degrees Celsius.
• Synthetic oils retain physical and chemical properties at temperatures from -40 to +130-150 degrees Celsius.

Similarities between mineral and synthetic oils:

• if the air temperature drops below -40 degrees, both types of oils thicken. This is evidenced by a very heavy steering wheel and poor vehicle handling;
• if the temperature rises above a critical level, the oil becomes watery, loses viscosity, begins to foam and boil. In this case, the control of the car becomes unpredictable - the steering wheel may move intermittently, the wheels will respond late to steering wheel turns.

Nissan power steering red mineral oil

Additives contained in oils perform certain functions:

• lubricate metal, rubber and fluoroplastic parts;
• reduce friction between parts;
• stabilize oil viscosity;
• protect parts from corrosion;
• prevent oils from foaming;
• protect rubber components and power steering/electric power steering pumps;
• oils are tinted for convenient and simple identification.

So, we figured out the oil “traffic light” and the chemical composition. It's time to understand the legends about power steering oils and determine which of them are true and which are not.

Checking legends about power steering oils

Legend No. 1: Synthetic oils wear out the rubber components of the power steering faster than mineral fluids.

Answer: Not true.

Over 15 years of working with steering, we have repeatedly heard from different drivers that they choose mineral oils for power steering because synthetics quickly destroy rubber components. And over the same 15 years, we realized that there is no connection between the type of oil and the rate of wear of rubber seals.

Various additives are necessarily added to synthetic and mineral oils to protect rubber components and increase their service life.

Difference between old (left) and new (right) green power steering oils

The only grain of truth is that any oil - both synthetic and mineral - can destroy parts if it is old or dirty:

• you saved money and bought low-quality oil, chemical and physical properties which do not meet the requirements. Such a liquid quickly becomes clogged and does not protect metal parts well from rust and friction, which also affects the condition of rubber components;
• You haven't changed the power steering oil for a long time. During operation, various microscopic debris and dirt accumulate in the oil, which wears out rubber seals and seals at an accelerated pace;
• you mixed two types of oils and drove for a long time with this “cocktail” in the power steering. We will talk further about what and how to mix.

Legend No. 2: Only the oil recommended by the manufacturer can be filled into the hydraulic booster.

Answer: Almost true.

Car manufacturers in technical documents Vehicle They RECOMMEND the use of certain oils - usually these are the fluids that the car manufacturer sells. Essentially, this is advertising your product at the expense of another product. You bought our car - now buy oil too.

Of course, you can use the appropriate oil from any manufacturer. A striking example is ZF brand pumps, which work equally well with yellow mineral oils Daimler AG and green mineral waters and synthetics VAG.

ZF brand power steering pumps are very unpretentious to oil

Very rarely do manufacturers complete steering such seals that last a long time only with certain brands of oil.

IMPORTANT! If you want to fill the power steering with oil that is not on the recommended list, you need to:

• consult with specialists. For example, service station employees who specialize in steering repair;
• completely remove the old oil and rinse the power steering system thoroughly so that the new oil does not mix with the remnants of the old fluid;
• Buy only high-quality oils from proven and well-known brands.

Legend No. 3: Some types of fluids can be mixed without damaging the components and parts of the power steering.

Answer: Almost true too.

The Internet is full of articles about power steering oils, where the following is written:

• feel free to mix red with red, and yellow with yellow;
• red and yellow mineral waters can also be mixed;
• Never mix green oil with liquids of other colors;
• You can add another green oil to the green power steering fluid, but only if both types of oils are listed in those recommended for the car;
• It is strictly forbidden to mix mineral oil with synthetic oil, even if they are the same color.

In fact, there are only two 100% true statements here. Do not mix with each other:

• mineral water and synthetics - they have a different base;
• green liquids with red or yellow ones.

You can mix oil according to the other described principles ONLY as a last resort, for example, if the power steering is leaking badly and you urgently need to get to a service station, but you don’t have suitable power steering oil on hand and don’t have time to look for it. Or if you are stuck in the middle of the highway with a broken power steering, you do not have a supply of suitable oil with you and the only way to get to your destination is to borrow oil from the first driver who stops.

Long-term use of a mixture of two oils can lead to power steering pump malfunctions

If you were forced to mix two types of oils, do not forget to rinse the system from the remnants of this mixture after repairing the power steering. Otherwise, the new fluid will mix with impurities from old oils, which will negatively affect the properties of the new fluid.

Mix two different types Liquids of the same color, much less different colors, are IMPOSSIBLE! Don't risk the performance of your car and watch what you fill carefully.

Legend No. 4: Power steering oil must be changed every 30-45 thousand kilometers.

Answer: Not true.

Mileage is not the only factor that affects the service life and condition of the oil. The properties of the oil also depend on:

• driver and his responsibility. If the driver regularly checks the condition of the oil, undergoes timely maintenance, and at the first sign of malfunction goes to a service station, then the power steering oil will last much longer - from 60 to 100 thousand kilometers.
• condition of the pump and other power steering elements, steering rack and other elements and components. If any part of the power steering system is rusty or does not work correctly, the oil will quickly become clogged with small debris and metal dust. The latter appears if there is mechanical damage to the walls of the pump stator or an annular hole in the rack distributor housing;
• integrity of the system. The oil will need to be changed if air, water, dust or dirt gets into the system. In such cases, the oil loses some of its physical and chemical properties, begins to foam, boil or thicken faster than usual, wears out power steering parts and becomes clogged with metal dust.

Legend No. 5: You need to check the condition of the power steering oil during each maintenance once every 15 thousand kilometers.

Answer: True.

Everything is simple here: after 15 thousand kilometers, clogged oil will not have time to seriously harm the power steering system and the technician will eliminate all faults without any problems.

Checking the condition of power steering oil using a syringe

Maintenance is maintenance, but you can check the power steering oil yourself. How to do it:

• open the tank lid;
• Dip a clean napkin or white sheet of paper into the oil. If the spot on the improvised “sample” is very dark, then it’s time to change the oil. To take an oil sample, you can use a regular syringe instead of a napkin or paper;
• Look carefully at the oil stain on the “probe”. If you notice any debris, even very small ones, then the oil is no longer suitable for use and needs to be changed;
• gently sniff the oil (we hope everyone remembers how we were taught to sniff reagents in chemistry lessons). If the fluid has a burning smell, it most likely means the oil also needs to be changed.

Legend No. 6: Inexpensive power steering oil - not always bad oil Power steering

Answer: True, but only partly.

Of course, there are time-tested and tried-and-true power steering oil brands on the market that offer fairly cheap fluids. But the savings must be reasonable. Do not buy oil from unknown brands just because it is two to three times cheaper than a well-known analogue. Most often, cheapness is associated with low quality, which does not meet any standards.

Remember that low-quality oil will quickly destroy the power steering, and the price tag for steering repair will be much more than you will save on oil.

Repairing a power steering pump costs several times more than quality oil. Save wisely

Do you want to buy inexpensive but high-quality power steering fluid? Consult with professionals, for example, employees of a specialized service station for repairing steering systems. Experienced mechanics and craftsmen will definitely be able to recommend something worthwhile and suitable for your car.

We remind you that you make any decisions regarding vehicle maintenance and repair at your own discretion. And only you can decide how to use the information received and what kind of oil to pour into the power steering.

Classification, interchangeability, miscibility.

Popularly, oils for the power steering system are distinguished by color. However, the real differences are not in color, but in the composition of the oils, their viscosity, the type of base, and additives. Oils of the same color can be completely different and not even mix. To say that if red oil is poured in, then another red oil can be added is completely wrong. Therefore, use the table at the end of the page.

The three colors of oil are as follows:

1) Red. Dexron family (mineral and synthetic red oils cannot be mixed!). Dexrons come in several types, but they all belong to the ATF class, i.e. class of oils for automatic transmissions (and sometimes power steering)

2) Yellow. The yellow family of power steering oils is most often used in Mercedes.

3) Green. Green oils for power steering (mineral and synthetic green oils cannot be mixed!) are loved by the VAG concern, as well as Peugeot, Citroen and some others. Not suitable for automatic transmissions.

Mineral water or synthetic?

The long-standing debate about which is better - synthetic or mineral water for the power steering system is not appropriate.

The fact is that in the power steering there are a lot of rubber parts like nowhere else. Synthetic oils have a worse effect on the life of rubber parts based on natural rubber (almost all types of rubber), due to their chemical aggressiveness. In order to fill synthetic oils into the power steering system, its rubber parts must be designed for synthetic oils and have a special composition.

Attention: Rare cars use synthetic oils for power steering! But synthetic oils are often used in automatic transmissions. Fill the power steering system only with mineral water, unless the instructions specifically indicate synthetic oil!

In order not to harm the power steering system, you must follow the rules: 1) Yellow and red mineral oils can be mixed; 2) Green oils cannot be mixed with either yellow or red ones. 3) Mineral and synthetic oils cannot be mixed.

How do automatic transmission oils differ from power steering oils, and why can they be used in power steering?

The table below shows the functions of hydraulic fluids (oils) for power steering (PSF) and automatic transmissions (ATF):

The Dexron family was originally developed for use as hydraulic oils in automatic transmissions. Therefore, sometimes these oils are called transmission oils, which creates confusion, since transmission oils used to mean thick oils of the GL-5, GL-4, TAD-17, TAP-15 brands for gearboxes and rear axles with hypoid gears. Hydraulic oils are much thinner than transmission oils. It's better to call them ATPs. ATF stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid (literally - Fluid for automatic transmissions - i.e. automatic transmissions)

As can be seen from the table above, oils for power steering and oils for automatic transmissions differ only in the presence in the latter of additional additives intended for automatic transmission clutches. But there are no clutches in the power steering system. Therefore, the presence of these additives does not make anyone hot or cold. This made it possible to safely fill automatic transmission oils into the power steering system. The Japanese, for example, have long filled power steering with the same oils as automatic transmissions.

In fact, if you pour suitable, high-quality, but non-original oil into the power steering, this will in no way affect its service life and performance. For example, the same pumps produced by ZF operate on different cars with different oils approved by the manufacturers themselves, and work equally well. This means yellow oils (Mercedes) and green oils (VAG) are equally good for power steering. The only difference is “the color of the ink.”

At the same time, practice has shown that they cannot be mixed. In some cases, when mixing green and yellow power steering oils, foam appears. Therefore, before using a liquid of a different color, you just need to flush the system!

When mixing mineral Dexrons and yellow power steering oils, no side effects not happening. Their additives do not conflict with each other, but simply acquire their concentration in the new mixture and continue to fulfill their role.

To clarify the miscibility of different power steering fluids, we provide the table below. However, the data in it relates only to the use of oils in power steering, but not in automatic transmissions!

First group. This group contains "conditionally miscible" oils If there is an equal sign between them: then it is the same oil, just from different manufacturers - they can be mixed in any way. And manufacturers do not intend to mix oils from adjacent lines. However, in practice, nothing terrible happens if two oils from adjacent rows are mixed. This will not in any way worsen the performance of the hydraulic booster and will not reduce its service life.

Febi 02615 yellow mineral SWAG SWAG 10 90 2615 mineral yellow VAG G 009 300 A2 yellow mineral Mercedes A 000 989 88 03 mineral yellow Febi 08972 yellow mineral SWAG 10 90 8972 yellow mineral mobil ATF 220 red mineral Ravenol Dexron-II red mineral Nissan PSF KLF50-00001 red mineral mobil ATF D/M red mineral Castrol TQ-D red mineral mobil 320 red mineral

Second group. This group contains oils that can only be mixed with each other. They cannot be mixed with any other oils from the tables above and below. However, they can be used instead of other oils, provided that the system is completely flushed of old oil.

Third group. These oils can only be used in power steering if a specific type of oil is indicated in the instructions on this car . These oils can only be mixed with each other. They cannot be mixed with other oils. Just as you cannot fill them into the power steering system if this type of oil is not specified in the instructions. If in doubt, avoid using these oils.

To make it easier to drive a car, or in common parlance, “steering,” a power steering wheel was invented - a mechanism that helps the steering wheel turn more easily and dampens the shocks transmitted to the steering wheel from the wheels when driving through holes and ruts. The power steering (power steering) cannot operate without a special fluid - oil, which performs several important functions in this mechanism. Our article today is about hydraulic fluids for power steering.

How does power steering oil work?

The first owner of power steering in the USSR in 1950 was the domestic truck MAZ-525 - the steering wheel of a multi-ton vehicle was equipped with this mechanism to facilitate the driver’s work. And among Soviet passenger cars, power steering was first used in 1959 on the ZIL-111 limousine. Mass equipping of passenger models of the domestic automobile industry with power steering began relatively recently, in the late 1990s – early 2000s. Whereas on cars foreign-made power steering began to be installed en masse already in the 1970s.

The power steering consists of several components and mechanisms: a hydraulic power cylinder, a control spool, a pressure regulator, a pump and an expansion tank.

The “blood” of this mechanism is a special hydraulic fluid (Power Steering Fluid - PSF), which circulates through a closed system. It performs several important functions:

• Transfer of energy from the pump to the steering pistons
• Cooling of power steering components and assemblies
• Lubrication of power steering components and assemblies
• Protection of power steering components and assemblies from corrosion

The main function of hydraulic fluid for power steering is to transfer working pressure from the pump, which is driven by a motor or an autonomous electric motor, to the moving parts of the power steering. When the pressure in the pump increases, the fluid circulates through a closed system to a place with low pressure - to the pistons of the power hydraulic cylinder, which is closely connected to the steering rack, through the control spool. Moving in a horizontal plane, the spool directs the flow of fluid depending on which direction the driver turns the steering wheel and eases the force on the steering wheel.

Another important role of oil in power steering is to remove excess heat from the components and parts of the power steering. Having good lubricating properties, the liquid prevents the generation of large friction forces between the components of the power steering mechanism. The corrosion inhibitors included in this oil suppress or slow down the process of rust formation on the internal surfaces of power steering parts.

Composition of oils for power steering

Operating fluids for various vehicle systems (, and so on) based on the chemical composition of the base are divided into three types: mineral, semi-synthetic and synthetic. In the case of power steering oils, everything is the same.

Mineral-based hydraulic fluids contain refined petroleum fractions (paraffins and naphthenes). The mineral base of such oils is up to 97%, the rest is additives that improve the performance of power steering fluids.

Hydraulic fluids on a semi-synthetic basis in chemical composition contain a mixture of mineral and synthetic (polyglycol) substances. Compared to mineral oils, semi-synthetic hydraulic fluids have a longer service life and improved performance characteristics (lower kinematic viscosity, resistance to foaming, oxidation, and so on).
Synthetic-based hydraulic fluids contain polyhydric alcohols (ethylene glycol or propylene glycol); petroleum fractions purified by hydrocracking; polyesters and various additives that improve the already outstanding performance characteristics when compared with mineral and semi-synthetic oils.
In addition to base oils, hydraulic fluids contain additives of different types and purposes. Let's list the main ones:

• Reducing the viscosity characteristics of the liquid

• Anti-foam

• Inhibiting or inhibiting corrosion

• Improving lubricity properties

• Prevents oxidation.

Pros and cons of different types of hydraulic fluids

Classification of hydraulic fluids for power steering

To make it easier to understand what kind of hydraulic fluid is needed for a particular car (not all car enthusiasts can be chemists and remember what composition of oil is suitable for the power steering of their cars), manufacturers have introduced a simple classification of PSF - according to the color of the pigment that is added to it. its composition. There are three main colors of these liquids: red, yellow and green.

Red oils for power steering include fluids developed according to General Motors standards. They are called Dexron (), and according to their composition they are divided into mineral and synthetic. Currently as operating fluid Dextron III and Dextron VI oils are used for power steering.

The first is produced by various companies producing hydraulic fluids under license from General Motors (the concern itself has not produced it for a long time), and the second is produced both by the concern itself under the name Dexron Power Steering Fuel, and by third-party manufacturers - under license.

These oils are also used as a fluid for automatic transmissions - some, mainly Japanese and Korean automakers fill the gearbox and power steering of their models with the same fluid. Dextrons are widely used in cars of General Motors, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Toyota, Mazda and others.

Yellow hydraulic fluids include mineral and synthetic working substances, which were mainly used by the Daimler concern. These PSF are poured into the power steering of Mercedes-Benz cars. However, other manufacturers of technical oils also produce “yellow” hydraulic fluid under license from Daimler.

Green hydraulic fluids are a proprietary development of the German concern Pentosin. They are widely used Volkswagen concerns, Chrysler, Ford, BMW, Bentley, Volvo and such gearbox manufacturers as ZF.

Attention: It is strictly forbidden to mix hydraulic fluids that differ in chemical composition (mineral with synthetic and semi-synthetic and vice versa). As for color, red power steering fluids can be mixed with yellow ones and vice versa. But it is not recommended to mix green oils with red and yellow oils under any circumstances - due to differences in the chemical composition of base oils and additives, which, having entered into chemical reaction, can precipitate and seriously damage the hydraulics (for example, damage the pump). So green hydraulic fluids can only be mixed with oils of the same color and composition.

In addition to the consumer classification of hydraulic oils for power steering by color, a more serious nomenclature has been adopted - by kinematic viscosity in the operating temperature range. Thus, mineral-based hydraulic fluids can operate at temperatures no higher than 90 degrees Celsius, while for semi-synthetic and synthetic oils this threshold is higher - up to 130 - 150 degrees Celsius. These fluids have the same low temperature threshold - normal operation of the power steering is ensured at a temperature not lower than -40 degrees Celsius.

How to choose power steering fluid

You need to choose power steering fluid based on two aspects: the manufacturer's recommendations and our advice on oil compatibility. Every automaker recommends for power steering working fluid of a certain type - which one can be found in the machine’s operating manual. Also, the type of power steering can be indicated on the cap of the expansion tank, where hydraulic fluid is poured. There are hydraulic oils that are recommended only for certain brands of cars - this is due to the design of the power steering system, the special material of the rubber parts used in it (example - Febi 06161, SWAG 99 90 6161). Before replacing the hydraulic fluid in the power steering, consult with specialists at an authorized dealership brand where your car was purchased. This way you will avoid many problems associated with the operation of power steering.

Keeping your car's power steering in working order is quite simple - you just need to fill it with specialized fluid. good quality. The main function of the power steering is to facilitate the process of driving the car. The mechanism cannot function properly without a special lubricating fluid, since the transmission oil must pass through all elements of the steering system. Power steering fluid is actually produced on the basis of oils and a number of additional additives.

The main task of oil in the steering mechanism is to effectively transfer force from the pump to the piston. In addition, the liquid cools the rubbing elements well and prevents them from overheating. At the same time, the liquid protects system elements from corrosion and lubricates all main parts of the steering column.

We have compiled a list of the best power steering fluids based on expert assessments from experts and reviews from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make a choice that suits your needs and desires. There are many competitors in the global technology market, but we have selected the best manufacturers and we recommend paying special attention to them:

1. Hyundai Mobis
2. IDEMITSU
3. PENTOSIN

*Prices are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

Power steering fluids: Semi-synthetic

Semi-synthetic / Compatibility: HYUNDAI / Compatibility: KIA

Main advantages

• Specially designed for KIA cars and HYUNDAI semi-synthetic fluid, which is used in power steering
• Thanks to the use of the latest developments, the synthetic fluid perfectly retains its fluidity even at severe frosts, allowing the steering wheel to turn fairly easily
• Special antioxidant and anti-corrosion additives prevent the formation of oxides and rust in the fluid, which negatively affect the operation of the steering mechanism
• Transmission oil conducts heat well and promotes the most complete cooling of the piston and pump
• The liquid does not have a destructive effect on the component parts of the mechanism, which are made of rubber, plastic and non-ferrous metals

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Power Steering Fluids: Synthetic

Synthetic / Compatibility: AUDI / Compatibility: OPEL

Main advantages

• Synthetic fluid from a German manufacturer is developed and used in hydropneumatic suspension systems, shock absorption and steering mechanisms of such cars as VW, OPEL, FORD and AUDI
• Special additives provide high level wear resistance for hydraulic pumps and valves of automobiles
• The oil components that provide its properties do not change their parameters over a wide temperature range, guaranteeing the fluid high operational reliability
• Throughout the entire operating time, no oxidation processes are observed in the liquid; it prevents corrosion well
• The oil helps to start easily in any weather and protects parts from the harmful effects of the environment.

Synthetic / Compatibility: AUDI / Compatibility: Mercedes-Benz / Compatibility: Volkswagen

Main advantages

• A universal multifunctional synthetic-based hydraulic fluid is actively used in steering mechanisms and is responsible for comfortable and safe driving.
• Is used for Maintenance the following brands: BMW, VOLVO, BENTLEY, FORD, PORSCHE, SAAB, MAN, DAIMIER CHRYSLER, AUDI, MERCEDES
• The basis for the production of liquids are base oils with the use of a complex of additional, optimally balanced additives that ensure maximum efficiency
• The liquid is certified and fully complies with the main criteria of leading manufacturers. It is quite possible to use it for the first refueling
• The oil reliably guarantees perfect job mechanisms even in the most critical operating conditions, at the most extreme temperatures
• The use of gear oil leads to the formation of a film on the working surfaces, which protects parts from mechanical wear, regardless of the complexity of the operating mode.

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