After what period of time the fluid in the power steering of a car should be replaced, manufacturers usually do not indicate, but it is necessary to change the oil in the steering, and most often the change is made after 50-60 thousand km of the covered path.
But many drivers do not know what kind of fluid is poured into the power steering, and in this article we will tell you what the power steering is usually filled with on various car models.
The importance of power steering oil
The hydraulic steering system (RU) is designed for comfortable driving and was once only used on trucks. Nowadays, more than half of all passenger cars are equipped with hydraulic power steering, and gradually mechanical steering cars are leaving the market.
The fluid in the power steering plays an important role, it simultaneously performs several functions at once:
- creates the pressure required to easily turn the steering wheel;
- lubricates all steering parts;
- protects parts of the switchgear from overheating;
- does not allow corrosion to appear in the steering mechanism;
- protects rubbing parts from premature wear.
Often the fluid in power steering is called oil or grease, since it has lubricating properties. To ensure high-quality lubrication of the switchgear parts, additives are added to the fluid, and the oil for steering mechanisms with power steering has its own specific composition, it is not suitable for an engine or mechanical transmission.
It often happens that oil leaks from the steering system, and until the repair is made, it is necessary to add fluid to the power steering tank. Car enthusiasts distinguish oil by color; it is produced with a yellow, red, green tint. Red fluid is Dexron, belongs to the ATF class, mainly used in automatic transmissions, less often in some types of power steering. Although all Dextron oils are the same in color, they have a different composition - they can be mineral or synthetic. You should be aware that mineral water should not be mixed with synthetics in any case, since the transmission fluid will curdle and foam when mixed. 
You should also know that Dexron is not a brand, but just a type of oil. Dextron is produced by various companies, it can be from manufacturers:
- Mobil;
- Mannol;
- Motul;
- Valvoline;
- Ravenol;
- Liqui Moly.
There are many other ATF companies as well.
The yellow power steering fluid was originally intended for Mercedes cars, and was almost never used on other car models. The fluid poured into the hydraulic booster for Ford, Renault, Opel, Hyundai, Nissan, Audi, Kia, etc., green, is used more often than others, but it is not suitable for automatic transmissions. Oil with a green tint belongs to the PSF class, and the additives in its composition differ from those in ATF.
To understand how transmission fluids differ from oils for power steering, it is enough to study the table of functions of oil for power steering and automatic transmissions. 
Before adding oil to the power steering, you should find out what kind of fluid is filled in the car. Often the content is determined by color, for example, only green or red (pink) liquid is poured into the Ford Focus-2. Having determined the color, the car owner finds out that only two compositions are used on "Focuses":
- WSS-M2C204-A - green tint;
- WSA-M2C195-A - red.
It is undesirable to use something else in the Ford Focus GUR, but you should know that red mineral oils such as Dextron can be mixed with each other in case of emergency.
Green and yellow liquids cannot be mixed; when they are combined, foaming occurs. But if the Mercedes car owner has a desire to replace the yellow grease in the steering system with a green one, it is necessary to flush, and then the power steering will work normally, without any problems. It is allowed to mix the "mineral water" Dexron with a yellow mineral liquid, nothing terrible happens. To understand a little what can and cannot be mixed, you can look at the compatibility tables of autochemistry of different manufacturers.
Group one.
Here are indicated oils that are conditionally replaceable with each other - they are very similar in composition, only produced by different manufacturers. If you approach the issue strictly, these fluids should not be mixed, but the mixing of the compositions will not affect the power steering resource, and the steering system will work properly. 
Group two ... In this table, liquids can only be mixed with each other, they are not compatible with other oils. But if you flush the system, they can be used in other power steering.
Group three
... Liquids in this category may only be used if they are approved for use by the vehicle manufacturer. Do not fill in group oils if they are not recommended by the manufacturer, but they are interchangeable with each other. 
Another important point - "synthetics" are rarely used in hydraulic boosters, the synthetic composition corrodes rubber seals and oil seals. Therefore, such fluids are used provided that their use is permissible by the vehicle manufacturer.
There are a lot of various auto chemical goods on the Russian market, automobile oils for hydraulic boosters are presented in a wide range. Products differ significantly in price, and original formulations are always more expensive. But if a product is sold cheaper, this does not mean at all that it is of poor quality. In many cases, auto chemical goods have a high price just because the company is very well known all over the world, but do you need to overpay only for the brand?
You can buy power steering fluid in any store that sells consumables and auto parts for cars; wholesale companies and small outlets also sell oils. By the way, the likelihood of running into a counterfeit is not excluded, so you should purchase the product from trusted organizations with a good reputation that have been working on the market for several years. Most often, power steering fluid is sold in packages with a volume of about 1 liter, and such a container is very convenient, since a power steering of a passenger car generally requires from 600 to 900 ml of oil. To illustrate the order of prices for products in 2017, here are a few examples. The cost of green fluid for power steering:
Here are the approximate prices for some ATF (Dextron) oils:
- ATF 220 Mobil, liter canister - 450-500 rubles;
- XADO ATF, 1 l - 800-850 rubles;
- Divinol ATF Premium, 1 l - 820-870 rubles.
The industry also produces various synthetic fluids, among inexpensive products it is worth noting Total Fluide Lds - the product is used in the hydraulic systems of Citroen cars. This oil is orange in color, has a high viscosity index, has a low pour point and excellent lubricating properties, well protects power steering parts from corrosion. The price of a package for 1 liter is about 500-500 rubles. But it should be remembered that synthetics cannot be mixed with mineral oils.
Most car owners have little interest in the power steering system. And usually 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 hydraulic booster
The oil in the power steering system 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 - the 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 type of base are divided into:
- mineral,
- synthetic.
Most cars today use mineral power steering fluids with a special set of additives. Synthetic power steering oils are also used, but less frequently. This is due to the peculiarity of the material of the rail seals, which are quickly destroyed in the aggressive environment of synthetic oils.
Only the type of fluid prescribed by the car manufacturer can be used in power steering as a base oil. Deviation 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 has a place to be, 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 power steering systems:
- 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.
- It is better not to mix different liquids. 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 the best in the power steering of a modern car? There is no definite answer to this question, it all depends on your specific car. Let's take a quick look at several popular power steering fluids today:
- ... A universal liquid at a low price. Suitable for automatic transmission and power steering at the same time, has many positive reviews from car owners in terms of application both in automatic transmissions and in power steering.
- ... High-quality fluid specially developed for hydraulic boosters in Citroen cars. Resistant to temperature extremes, it has proven itself perfectly when working in the conditions of Russian winters.
- ... A time-tested fluid, mainly intended for the 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 lowest prices for acceptable performance.
When choosing a fluid for 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 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!
One often hears this statement: transmission oil is used in the hydraulic power steering. How much it corresponds to reality and whether transmission oil can actually be poured into the power steering - let's figure it out below.
What are power steering fluids?
Power steering fluid is a mineral or synthetic base with an additive package. In addition to lubricating, protective, anti-corrosion and other functions inherent in most oils, the power steering fluid additionally acts as a carrier of energy.
The power steering works on the principle of a volumetric hydraulic drive. The power steering pump builds up pressure and supplies it to a distributor installed at the base of the rack. Depending on which direction the driver turns the steering wheel, fluid enters one of the two rack cavities and puts pressure on the piston, pushing it in the right direction. This reduces the effort required to turn the wheels.
ATF performs similar functions in an automatic transmission. All automatic transmission actuators operate on fluid pressure. The valve body directs the pressure of the ATF fluid to the desired circuit, due to which the clutch packs are closed and opened and the brake bands are triggered. At the same time, the transmission oil used in conventional manual transmissions and other non-pressurized assemblies is initially poorly suited for energy transfer.
Therefore, it is the transmission oil for automatic transmissions that is used today in the hydraulic boosters of many modern cars. For example, the Japanese car industry uses the same oil in the power steering of its cars as it pours in the automatic transmission. Conventional gear oils for manual transmissions, drive axles, transfer cases of GL-x category according to API or TM-x according to GOST are not suitable for power steering.
Which transmission oil to choose for power steering?
The choice of fluid for power steering should be approached carefully. Today, power steering oils are conventionally divided into two categories: mineral and synthetic. It is strictly forbidden to add synthetic oil to systems running on mineral lubricants. This will destroy the seals, since synthetics are aggressive towards rubber seals, which are many in the construction of the power steering.
Mineral gear oils of the Dexron family are used in almost all Japanese cars. These fluids are produced in red and can be poured almost without restrictions into hydraulic boosters intended for their use.
Usually on the plug of the power steering expansion tank it is written on what oil it works. If the required lubricant belongs to the Dexron category, then you can safely pour in any gear oil of this family, regardless of color and manufacturer. Red oils are conditionally miscible with yellow power steering fluids. That is, if a yellow fluid was initially poured into the power steering reservoir, then it will not be a mistake to top up the red Dexron ATF fluid.
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 parameters.
Therefore, if you are worried about the long and stable operation of the hydraulic power steering of a car, you need to follow the operating rules, change the slurry in the power steering on time and fill it with the best high-quality liquid. For the operation of the power steering pump two types of fluids are used- mineral or synthetic, in conjunction with additives that play a major role in the operation of the hydraulic booster.
It is quite difficult to determine the best fluid for power steering, 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 fluids for power steering, which caused the most confidence and collected many positive reviews.
Note that such liquids are poured into the power steering:
- conventional ATF, as in an automatic transmission;
- Dexron (II - VI), the same as ATP fluid, only a different set of additives;
- PSF (I-IV);
- Multi HF.
Therefore, the TOP of the best hydraulic booster fluids will consist, respectively, of similar categories.
So, what is the best power steering fluid to choose from all on the market?
| Category | A place | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Multi Hydraulic Fluid | 1 | Motul Multi HF | from 1100 rub. |
| 2 | Pentosin CHF 11S | from 800 p. | |
| 3 | Comma PSF MVCHF | from 600 rub. | |
| 4 | RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid | from 500 p. | |
| 5 | LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil | from 1000 r. | |
| Best Dextron | 1 | Motul DEXRON III | from 550 p. |
| 2 | Febi 32600 DEXRON VI | from 450 p. | |
| 3 | Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus | from 220 p. | |
| 4 | Castrol Transmax DEX-VI | from 600 rub. | |
| 5 | ENEOS Dexron ATF III | from. 400 p. | |
| The best ATF for power steering | 1 | Mobil ATF 320 Premium | from 360 p. |
| 2 | Motul Multi ATF | from 800 p. | |
| 3 | Liqui Moly Top Tec ATF 1100 | from 400 p. | |
| 4 | Formula Shell Multi-Vehicle ATF | from 400 p. | |
| 5 | ZIC ATF III | from 350 p. |
Note that PSF hydraulic fluids from automakers (VAG, Honda, Mitsubishs, Nissan, General Motors and others) are not involved, as each has its own original hydraulic booster oil. Let's compare and highlight only analogous fluids, which are universal and suitable for most cars.
Best Multi HF
Hydraulic oil Motul Multi HF... Multifunctional and high-tech synthetic green fluid for hydraulic systems. It was developed specifically for the latest generation of cars, which are equipped with such systems as: power steering, hydraulic shock absorbers, hydraulic opening roof, etc. Reduces system noise, especially in low temperature environments. It has anti-wear, anti-corrosion and anti-foam properties.
It can be chosen as an alternative to the original PSF, since it was developed 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 disappeared like a hand.
- - I drive a Chevrolet Aveo, the dextron fluid was poured, the pump squealed strongly, it was recommended to change it, I chose this fluid, the steering wheel became a little tighter, but the screeching immediately disappeared.
- Pros:
- Has approvals from almost all car brands;
- Can be mixed with oils of the same type;
- Designed for heavy duty hydraulic pumps.
- Minuses:
- Very high price (from 1000 rubles)
Pentosin CHF 11S... Dark green synthetic high quality hydraulic fluid, used by BMW, Ford, Chrysler, GM, Porsche, Saab and Volvo. It can be poured not only into the hydraulic booster, but also into the air suspension, shock absorbers and other car systems that provide for the filling of such a 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 a high price, but also a fairly high fluidity - viscosity indicators are about 6-18 mm² / s (at 100 and 40 degrees). For example, for its counterparts from other manufacturers according to the FEBI, SWAG, Ravenol standards, they are 7-35 mm² / s. Solid track record of approvals from leading car manufacturers.
This PSF of a popular brand from the assembly line is used by German auto giants. Without fear for the power steering system, you can use it in any car, except for Japanese ones.
Tolerances:
- DIN 51 524T3
- Audi / VW TL 52146.00
- Ford WSS-M2C204-A
- MAN M3289
- Bentley RH 5000
- ZF TE-ML 02K
- GM / Opel
- Chrysler
- Dodge
Reviews
- - Not a bad liquid, chips are not formed, but very aggressive to aluminum, plastic and oil seals.
- - After replacing on my VOLVO S60, a smoother steering wheel and a quiet operation of the power steering immediately became noticeable. The howling sounds disappeared when the power steering was working in extreme positions.
- - I decided to choose Pentosin, although our price is 900 rubles. per liter, but confidence in the car is more important ... On the street again -38, normal flight.
- - I live in Novosibirsk, in severe winters the steering wheel spins like a KRAZ, I had to try many different liquids, arranged a frost test, 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.
- Fairly frost-resistant;
- Can be used on both VAZ and premium cars.
- Record holder for compatibility with different seals.
- Minuses:
- Does not eliminate pump noises, if they were before replacement, but is only designed to maintain the same condition.
- Quite 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, hydraulic systems of folding roofs. Compatible with Dexron, CHF11S and CHF202 fluids. Like all multi-fluids and some PSFs, it is green.
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.
Conforms to 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, does not freeze in severe frost, they write on the packaging to -54, I don't know, but -25 flows without problems.
- Pros:
- Has approvals of almost all European cars;
- Behaves well in the cold;
- Relatively low price for a quality product (from 600 rubles per liter);
- Compliant with Dexron specification.
- Minuses:
- Unlike a similar PSF of the same company or other analogs, 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. Has a consistently high viscosity index and high oxidation stability. It is produced on the basis of a hydrocracked base oil with the addition of polyalphaolefins with the addition of a special complex of additives and inhibitors. It is a special semi-synthetic fluid for power steering of modern cars. Except in the hydraulic booster, it is used in all types of transmission (manual transmission, automatic transmission, gearbox and axles). At the request of the manufacturer, it has high thermal stability and is able to withstand low temperatures down to -40 ° C.
If it is not possible to buy an original hydraulic fluid, this is a good choice for a Korean or Japanese car at 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
- - I changed it on my Hyundai Santa Fe, I filled it in instead of the original, because I see no reason to overpay twice. Things are good. The pump is quiet.
- Pros:
- Neutral with respect to sealing rubber 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 from the Korean and Japanese automakers.
LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil- green hydraulic oil, is a fully synthetic fluid with a zinc-free additive package. Developed in Germany and guarantees flawless operation of such hydraulic systems as: power steering, hydropneumatic suspension, shock absorbers, support for an active engine damping system. Has a multi-purpose application, but not all major major European car manufacturers and does not have approvals from Japanese and Korean car factories.
It can also be used in systems designed for conventional ATF oils. The product achieves the greatest efficiency in a form not mixed with other liquids.
A good liquid, which you can not be afraid to pour into many European cars, is simply irreplaceable in regions with harsh winters, but the price tag for many makes it inaccessible.
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 there were problems with hydraulics after -40, I tried to fill in Zentralhydraulik-Oil, although there is no admission, but only Ford took a chance, I drive everything OK for the fourth winter.
- - I have a BMW, I used to fill in the original Pentosin CHF 11S, and since last winter I switched to this liquid, the steering wheel turns much easier than ATF.
- - In my Opel I drove 27 thousand km in a year in a temperature range from -43 to + 42 ° C. The power steering does not buzz at startup, but in the summer it seemed that the liquid was liquid, since when the steering wheel was rotated in place, there was a feeling of the shaft rubbing against the rubber.
- Pros:
- Good viscosity characteristics over a wide temperature range;
- Versatility of application.
- Minuses:
- As for the price tag of 1000 rubles. and with good characteristics, has a small number of approvals and recommendations for use in different brands of cars.
Best Dexron Fluids
Semi-synthetic transmission fluid Motul DEXRON III is a product of technosynthesis. Red oil is intended for any systems where DEXRON and MERCON standards are required, namely: automatic transmissions, power steering, hydrostatic transmission. Motul DEXRON III is easy to flow in severe frost and has a stable oil film even at high temperatures. This gear oil can be used where DEXRON II D, DEXRON II E and DEXRON III fluids are recommended.
Motul's Dextron 3 competes with and even surpasses the original from GM.
Conforms to standards:
- GENERAL MOTORS DEXRON III G
- FORD MERCON
- MB 236.5
- ALLISON C-4 - CATERPILLAR TO-2
Price from 550 rubles.
Reviews
- - Replaced on my Mazda CX-7 now the steering wheel can be turned 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, providing for the filling of a Dextron 6 class transmission fluid. Also recommended for replacement in mechanisms with DEXRON II and DEXRON III oil requirements. Manufactured (and bottled) in Germany from high quality base oils and the latest generation of additives. Of all the ATF power steering fluids presented, Dexron has the most suitable viscosity for power steering applications, as an alternative to the PSF special fluid.
Febi 32600 is the best analogue of the original fluid in both automatic transmissions and power steering of German automakers.
Has a number of the most recent 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 rubles.
Reviews
- - I took for my Opel Mokka, there are no complaints or any changes for the worse. Good oil for a reasonable price.
- - I changed the fluid in the BMW E46 gur, immediately took Pentosin, but after a week the steering wheel began to spin hard, changed it again but on Febi 32600, for more than a year already on it, everything is fine.
- Pros:
- Can be replaced in place of lower grade Dextron fluid;
- Has a good degree of viscosity for universal ATF in the box and power steering.
- Minuses:
- Approvals from American and European auto giants only.
Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus is a multipurpose multigrade gear oil. Designed for use in automatic transmissions, converters, power steering and hydraulic clutches. Like all Dexron and Mercon fluids, it is red in color. Carefully selected additives and synthetic components provide the best frictional 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 claims that the transmission fluid is chemically neutral to any sealing material, but tests have shown that it is corrosive to copper alloy parts. 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 rubles.
Reviews
- - I pour Mannol Automatic Plus into my Volga, it can withstand frosts of minus 30, there are no complaints about sounds or difficulties in turning the steering wheel, the operation of the hydraulic booster on this fluid is quiet.
- - I have been using MANNOL ATF Dexron III in GUR for two years now, no problems.
- Pros:
- Low dependence of viscosity on operating temperature;
- Low price.
- Minuses:
- Corrosive to copper alloys.
Castrol DEXRON VI- red transmission fluid for automatic transmissions. Low viscosity transmission oil designed to operate in modern automatic transmissions with maximum fuel efficiency. Made in Germany from high quality base oils with a balanced additive package. It has Ford (Mercon LV) and GM (Dexron VI) approvals and exceeds the Japanese JASO 1A standard.
If it is not possible to buy an original ATF Dexron for a Japanese or Korean car, then Castrol Dexron 6 is a worthy replacement for it.
Conforms to 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 r.
Reviews
- - On my Aveo they write that Dextron 6 needs to be poured into the power steering, I took it from the Castrol Transmax DEX-VI store, it seems as if it was only for automatic transmission, they said it was good for the gidrach, as it was regulated by the price policy, so that it was not the cheapest, but also expensive it's a pity. There is very little information and reviews on this fluid, but I have no complaints, the steering wheel spins without sounds and difficulties.
- Pros:
- An additive package that provides good corrosion protection for copper alloys;
- Meets many specifications of most of the world's car manufacturers.
- 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 transmission and power steering systems. High thermal-oxidative stability is able to ensure the cleanliness of the transmission for more than 50 thousand kilometers. The red ENEOS Dexron III liquid, reminiscent of raspberry-cherry syrup, contains special antifoam additives with good air-displacing properties. Meets the latest GM Dexron manufacturer requirements. On sale it is more often found in 4-liter cans, but liter cans are also found. The manufacturer can be Korea or Japan. Frost resistance at the level of -46 ° С.
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 a power steering, it only closes the top five of the 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 r. for a can of 0.94 liters.
Reviews
- - I have been using it for 3 years, changed both in the box and in the power steering on Mitsubishi Lancer X, Mazda Familia, excellent oil, does not lose properties.
- - I took a Daewoo Espero for a replacement in the automatic transmission, after a partial filling I have been driving for more than six months for now, I do not see any problems.
- - I poured Santa Fe into the box, as for me the Mobile is better, it seems to be losing its properties faster, but this is only about the automatic transmission, as I have not tried it in the power steering.
- Pros:
- Some of the best lubricating properties;
- It tolerates very low temperatures well.
- Minuses:
- Aggressive to copper alloy parts.
The best ATF fluids for power steering
Liquid Mobil ATF 320 Premium has a mineral composition. Place of application - automatic transmission and power steering, which require oils of the Dexron III level. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Miscible with red ATP fluids of Dextron 3 classification. Compatible with all common seal materials used in transmissions.
Mobile ATF 320 will not only be an excellent choice as an analogue for pouring into an automatic transmission, but also a good option, in terms of its behavior and characteristics, in the power steering system.
Conforms to specifications:
- ATF Dexron III
- GM Dexron III
- ZF TE-ML 04D
- Ford Mercon M931220
Price starts at 360 r.
Many models of transport equipment are equipped with a power steering system that requires compliance with a certain maintenance schedule. What kind of oil to pour into the power steering is a common question for most car owners. In order to answer it, you need to understand what function the working fluid performs, how the steering wheel torque amplification is created, familiarize yourself with the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, the types of oils for power steering and the features of their use.
Purpose of the fluid in the power steering
The unit provides reinforcement and uniform transmission of force from the steering wheel to the steered wheel pair, due to the constant circulation of the working fluid. The correct operation and durability of the power steering depend on its correct choice and condition. In modern hydraulic boosters, a special oil with a set of additives is used, which has certain properties. Depending on the type and manufacturer, it is colored red, yellow or green, and has a different consistency.
The working fluid is in the expansion tank, from where it is pumped into the system under pressure by means of a pump, lubricating and cooling its interacting elements, reducing friction and extending the service life of the power steering. Note that the liquid is only the base. Important functions are performed by the additives contained in its composition.
The main types and their features
To understand what kind of oil needs to be poured into the power steering system, you should find out its main types. Note that most owners of automotive equipment are guided by its color when choosing a liquid. But, the choice by color cannot be called justified in any way, since it is necessary to take into account other characteristics of the working fluid. These include:
- hydrorening properties;
- viscosity;
- consistency;
- chemical and mechanical properties.
It is only on the basis of these quality indicators that one can correctly judge the substance as a whole. Two main types are used as a base: mineral and synthetic. Each of them is good in its own way, since it has a set of certain properties inherent in these species.
The mineral base is more used in oils for power steering, since the design of the system contains rubber elements that lose their physical properties during prolonged operation. Therefore, this type of base is optimal to protect them and ensure maximum productivity of the system. Mineral water efficiently removes heat, cooling and lubricating parts. Thanks to this, the prevention of the formation of foci of corrosion on them is carried out.
Synthetics have not received widespread use in hydraulic boosters of transport equipment. Its use is shown only in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. The synthetic base contains rubber fibers, the effect of which has a detrimental effect on the condition of rubber parts, increasing their wear and tear and causing the power steering system to fail. Synthetic oil is mainly used in the power steering system of special vehicles.
Note that liquids can be mixed. True, not all, but only those whose qualitative composition implies this possibility. Therefore, oils have three primary colors, which allows the owner of a vehicle equipped with a power steering wheel to quickly determine their choice and the possibility of mixing.
Color classification and characteristics of oils
As you know, a liquid can be colored in one of three colors:
- Red
- Yellow
- Green
Only yellow and red colors are allowed to be mixed. If the system is already filled with green oil, it is not possible to replenish its level with a liquid of a different color. Mixing oils with different bases is also contraindicated. Let's characterize each of the colors of the working fluid:
- Red - the liquid has a mineral or synthetic base. It is used mainly in automatic transmissions, and very rarely in power steering systems. Note that since red oil has two types of base, it is strictly forbidden to mix them. That is, if a red mineral water is poured into the power steering, it must be added accordingly, and not synthetics of the same color. However, red oil can be mixed with yellow oil. True, for this, both fluids must have the same characteristics.
- The yellow liquid is considered universal and is widely used in power steering of various vehicles and special-purpose equipment. In addition, it can be poured into a manual or automatic transmission.
- Green oil can be produced on a synthetic or mineral base. Despite this, it is intended exclusively for use in manual transmissions, but can be filled into the hydraulic booster after complete removal of the old fluid and flushing.
Interchangeability of oils
We emphasize that it is possible to fill the reservoir with working fluids from various manufacturers, since most of them are completely interchangeable. The main thing is to choose the oil in accordance with the stated requirements, focusing on its composition and color. You can use high quality (!), But not original, cheap working fluid.
This will not in any way affect the performance and operating period of the power steering. Power steering pumps from different manufacturers are installed on all kinds of models of automotive and special equipment, and work equally well with all types of oils. Hence, there is no difference in the color of the liquid poured into the new system.
In practice, everything is different. Since most of the additives that make up the oils conflict with each other, mixing them is contraindicated. Before filling with liquid of a different color, perform a complete flush of the system.
If you mix a red oil with a mineral base like Dexron and a yellow universal power steering fluid, nothing bad happens. The additives included in their composition work normally, complementing each other.
Mixing oils
In order to fully understand the principle of fluid interchangeability and mixing, some special considerations should be taken into account. Power steering oils are divided into the following groups:
- Conditionally miscible fluids - this oil can be used to replenish the level in the system. As a temporary measure (to get to the nearest car service), you can fill in any oil, although after that you need to completely flush the system. It is also allowed to use the same type of fluids. Vehicle manufacturers do not recommend mixing them, despite the fact that this will not affect the performance of the power steering.
- Here are liquids that can be mixed exclusively with each other. Any mixing of them is categorically contraindicated, since this will lead to the failure of the power steering system. But they can replace any type of oil in the hydraulic booster, before that, completely flushing all the lines.
- Oils in this group can be used in power steering vehicles in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations for a specific type of working fluid. They mix only with each other, they cannot be mixed with anything else. In addition, their use is prohibited if this type of oil is not indicated in the technical book of the car. The choice of fluids from this category should be treated with extreme care. If in doubt, consult an experienced professional.
Which oil is better to fill?
Given the variety of products on the shelves of car dealerships, this question is so commonplace for vehicle owners that it is simply ignored. Simply put, drivers buy oil in accordance with the recommendations from the technical book of a car, or another type of fluid that has proven itself on the positive side during operation. In any case, it is necessary to correctly determine the choice. To do this, you should know all the properties that a quality substance possesses. The main selection criteria are:
- Security. Only high quality and certified power steering fluid meets safety requirements. The functioning of the system is accompanied by the release of thermal energy in large quantities, the oil starts to steam. Since it contains various chemicals, their vapors can be harmful to health. The safety of the oil is confirmed by a quality certificate.
- Thermal stability. A good power steering fluid should work at a temperature of more than one hundred degrees. Poor quality oils decompose when the temperature rises, thereby paralyzing the operation of the hydraulic booster. In addition, the physical properties of the substance should not change with increasing temperature. Oil of inadequate quality will aggravate the operation of the power steering system, up to the failure of the unit.
Some interesting points
Most vehicle manufacturers claim that the power steering oil is filled once for the entire period of operation, and the need for its replacement is completely excluded. But, not everything is as good as we would like. The working fluid ages, its additives are destroyed, as a result of which a precipitate forms in it and changes color. This leads to a deterioration in the work of the power steering.
Before replacing the old fluid, you need to familiarize yourself in advance with the characteristics of the new oil, which will be filled into the hydraulic booster. At the same time, take into account the recommendations of the car manufacturer and mix only permissible types of oils. If you comply with the scheduled deadlines and change the working fluid in the hydraulic booster on time, vehicle control will be ensured.
