How much does it cost for a power steering flush

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How much does a power steering fluid replacement cost?

Your car’s hydraulic power steering system only operates if it’s full of clean power steering fluid.

It circulates throughout the power steering system to provide hydraulic assist whenever you turn the steering wheel.

During everyday use, the power steering fluid will deteriorate, just like engine oil, and requires replacement.

Depending on your manufacturer, power steering replacement should be performed every 50,000 to 100,000km, or when it looks dark and discoloured.

Typically, power steering fluid replacement costs $100 to $250 to perform, depending on the type of power steering fluid used.

The more you drive your car, the more frequently you’ll need power steering fluid replacement.

What is power steering fluid?

Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that circulates through the power steering pump and the power steering rack to provide steering assist when you’re turning.

Pressurised fluid from the pump flows to either side of the steering gear to apply pressure on the piston inside, aiding your steering effort.

In most vehicles, the fluid also circulates through a power steering fluid cooler to prevent premature fluid breakdown due to high temperature.

Power steering fluid itself is commonly mineral-based or silicone-based fluid, although sometimes a synthetic fluid like transmission fluid is used.

It breaks down over time and loses its lubricating properties. It can also become contaminated by water or other fluids.

If the power steering fluid becomes dark or milky, it’s time for it to be changed.

Symptoms you need power steering fluid replacement

  • The steering wheel is stiff or choppy to turn
  • The fluid appears black, dark brown, or milky
  • The fluid feels gritty or has flecks of black in it
How much does it cost for a power steering flush

How is power steering fluid replacement performed?

  • The technician siphons the fluid from the power steering fluid reservoir, often attached to the pump and new fluid is added
  • Alternately, the technician disconnects a power steering hose and fully drains the power steering system
  • New, clean fluid is added to the reservoir
  • The technician operates the power steering to circulate the clean fluid into the system, pushing out old fluid in the power steering cooler and power steering rack while ensuring the reservoir is always full
  • Once clean fluid comes out the disconnected power steering hose, it’s reconnected and the reservoir topped up
  • The technician bleeds the system and performs a road test

Tips to remember

  • Only the specified type of power steering fluid should be used or damage can occur to the power steering system’s seals and hoses
  • Don’t operate the power steering system without fluid or it can become damaged

How important is power steering fluid replacement?

The power steering system won’t work well if the fluid is low or contaminated, and internal problems can result from operating the power steering with such power steering fluid.

Driving your car when the power steering fluid is dirty won’t cause immediate issues, however, it can cause expensive power steering trouble down the road.

If you’ve read this far, you obviously care about your car. A lot. So next time you need a service, repair or inspection, visit AutoGuru.com.au.

We let you search and book from over 1,600 qualified mechanics, who eat car troubles for breakfast.

Everything You Need to Know About Power Steering Fluid Flushes

Has your vehicle become challenging to turn and maneuver? Does it make squeaking sounds when turning? If this sounds like you, it could be time for a power steering fluid flush. Here is everything you need to know about this service, brought to you by the mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire.

What is Power Steering Fluid?

Power steering fluid is a hydraulic solution that mobilizes your steering system. Much like the role your brake fluid plays in your slowing and stopping, power steering fluid pressurizes and your steering system, allowing you to control a large, heavy, fast-moving vehicle with little effort. Over time, this fluid becomes worn, dirty, contaminated, and ineffective, which requires that it is cleared out and replaced in a power steering flush

When it comes to operating any vehicle, successfully steering is an obvious necessity. This maintenance flush ensures that you will be able to maintain control over your vehicle. Not only does your power steering solution wear out over time, but other components of your steering system—such as o-rings and seals—may also need replacing. If left without this necessary service, your power steering system can encounter larger, more costly issues. This includes corrosion and power-steering pump problems. In a worst-case scenario, your vehicle will become challenging to control, leaving you at a serious safety risk. The necessary power steering flush routine varies based on your vehicle and your driving patterns. If you are wondering whether or not you are in need of this service, consult your owner’s manual or contact a local mechanic for further insight. 

What Does Power Steering Fluid Flush Involve?

During this service, a mechanic will begin by removing all of your old, contaminated steering fluid from your system. You may notice this substance is burnt and discolored when compared to the fresh, clear solution they will replace it with. They will also flush any lingering debris from your system using professional-grade tools and methods. Next, your mechanic will inspect the surrounding components—such as your power steering pump— to make sure that no additional services are needed. They will finish this service by replenishing your power steering system with fresh fluid. 

How Much Does a Power Steering Fluid Flush Cost?

Here at Chapel Hill Tire, we pride ourselves in keeping our everyday prices low for customers. Unlike other mechanics, we also keep our prices transparent to eliminate deception and to take the confusion out of quality car care. Our power steering fluid maintenance flush costs $121.45. This price includes the cost of our high-quality power steering replacement fluid. You can also find a maintenance flush coupon on our site, making this necessary service even more affordable. 

Chapel Hill Tire Power Steering Fluid Flush

All eight of our Chapel Hill Tire mechanic locations specialize in this service, including those in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. You can access quality car care no matter where your schedule takes you when you partner with our trusted mechanic network.  Make an appointment with the experts at Chapel Hill Tire to get started today!

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Is a power steering flush necessary?

So is a power steering fluid change really necessary? The short answer is yes—routine power steering flushes are essential to protecting your vehicle and keeping you safe on the road.

How much does it cost to flush and fill power steering fluid?

The Average Cost for a Power Steering Flush Is $16 to $125 Depending on if You Go to the Mechanic or DIY. What Is a Power Steering Fluid Change?

How long does a power steering flush take?

With the engine running, remove the cap from the power steering reservoir and pour in about half of the bottle of Slip-Stop. Replace the cap. Pour about half the bottle into the reservoir, replace the cap and then drive the vehicle for about 15 minutes to get the flush working.

Is it worth the extra cost to service the power steering fluid?

As your car continues to age its also a good idea to have it done every 30,000 miles thereafter. Considering that the average steering repair costs between $600 and $1000, routine preventative maintenance is a sound investment.