Flushing transmission fluid, radiator, brake, and engine fluid is part of a car’s regular maintenance program. Does power steering also need to be flushed? If so, can you use transmission fluid for the power steering pump? Is there a possibility of ruining the power steering components by doing this, or do both fluids have the same properties? If you are considering using transmission fluid in the power steering, this article will help you get the answers.
Is a Power Steering Flush Necessary?
Any automobile equipped with a hydraulic power steering system needs power steering fluid. It works with the power steering pump to make turning the steering wheel smoother.
Over time, the fluid collects metal particles and sludge. The thick grit resembles sand that enters the rack and pinion seals and eventually ruins them.
The owner’s manual does not mention flushing power steering fluid as routine maintenance. But, you should do it to keep the car in good condition. When flushing becomes mandatory rather than an optional task, many people ask the question: can I use transmission fluid for power steering fluid? Let’s find out the differences between the types of fluids before answering the question.
Power Steering Fluid vs ATF
Many people want to know if they can use transmission fluid in the power steering pump. Is power steering fluid the same as transmission fluid? A comparison between them will help you understand whether replacing one fluid with the other is safe.
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is a red-colored fluid that emits a distinct sweet smell, while power steering fluid (PS) is clear, amber, or pinkish and smells like burnt marshmallow.
Both are hydraulic fluids. But the biggest difference is that ATF contains detergents and friction modifiers. The detergents filter out grease and dirt that can enter the power steering system and damage the pump and hydraulic valves of the steering rack. The friction modifiers, on the other hand, help control excessive heat buildup from the valves and pump.
PS fluid also reduces friction between the different components of the system and excessive temperature buildup. Its other tasks are to provide hydraulic pressure to the system components and lubricate the steering pump and gearbox. But, can you use transmission fluid for the power steering pump? Let’s find out.
Can You Use Transmission Fluid for the Power Steering Pump?
It depends on the make and model of the vehicle. Some people see no problem with it, while others are completely against it unless it’s an absolute emergency.
The argument against the practice seems stronger because using the wrong oil in high volume can deteriorate and destroy parts of a system. Both ATF and PS fluids are hydraulic types, but they are not the same.
Transmission fluid serves for cleaning and friction. Being sticky and heat-resistant in nature, it improves friction between the clutch pack components for better grip. In contrast, PS fluid is mainly for lubrication and reducing friction between the various parts of the power steering system. ATF will work for a while, but it will affect the pump and gearbox seals in the long term. Using the approved PS fluid for your vehicle model is the right way to avoid any problems.
Is It Possible to Replace PS Fluid with Transmission Fluid in Any Vehicle?
So, can you use transmission fluid for the power steering pump? The answer is no! Then why do so many people speak in favor of it?
Well, you can use ATF in the power steering pump of vehicles manufactured in the late 70s or earlier. These older cars do not have the sophisticated and lightweight materials used in cars produced in the 90s and later. The power steering system of vintage vehicles is made of raw materials that can handle ATF since it is also a hydraulic fluid.
Modern cars have subtle engineering and delicate components. Every system needs the oil and fluid specifically designed for them. Thus, using a different fluid that does not meet the requirements of a specific system is harmful to it.
Many Ford and GM models accept fluid exchange, whereas you will simply ruin a BMW, Audi, Honda, or Mercedes-Benz by doing so. The best way to determine the answer to the question – can you use transmission fluid for the power steering pump – is to consult your car’s owner’s manual. It will clearly mention whether the car needs standard power steering fluid or can also run on ATF. Some models may require specific types of hydraulic fluid. For example, a Lexus LX470 will do fine with ATF, but a BMW requires a special synthetic fluid called Pentosin CHF 11S. If your car was manufactured in the 90s or later, check the owner’s manual before making a rash decision.
Should We Mix Transmission Fluid with PS Fluid?
ATF is essentially used to reduce friction and for cleaning, while PS fluid is mainly used to lubricate power steering parts. But can two types of fluids be mixed together? As we know, PS fluid and transmission fluid are both hydraulic fluids, so mixing them is not supposed to be a problem. However, since they both have different material compositions, it may lead to an issue if they are mixed and certain set requirements are not met.
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One thing to note is that power steering fluid contains oil, whereas transmission fluid does not contain any oil element in its formula. Therefore, it is quite possible that there will be leaks if these fluids are used in a system with rubber parts, as oil can cause the rubber to expand. Based on this, power fluid may cause a problem.