Is Power Steering Fluid Corrosive?

Hydraulic fluid works to make the job of the steering wheel easier as it transfers power to the system. Not only does it fuel the system but keeps the moving parts lubricated too. 

However, some fluids made for automotive parts have been accused of corrosion. Now, this can make you think about the power steering fluid too.   

So, is power steering fluid corrosive?

Power steering fluid isn’t corrosive thanks to the presence of anticorrosion agents. Nevertheless, such inhibitors can break down over time due to heat and pressure which can make the fluid lose efficiency and cause corrosion. 

Power Steering Fluid- Corrosive Or Non-Corrosive?

Power steering fluid is typically hydraulic fluid composed of different additives like antioxidants, detergents, viscosity index improvers, and anticorrosion agents as well. The latter mostly comes in the form of amine inhibitors that help prevent or reduce the rate of corrosion. Some other elements such as alkenyl succinic, imides, and alkenyl succinic esters present in the fluid also work as anti-corrosive agents. 

Moreover, the fluid contains phosphorus compounds and thiadiazole derivatives. These two can prevent corrosion of piston sealing of power cylinder, which eventually helps avoid fluid leakage. Hence, it benefits power steering with stable operation while making it last longer. So, the anticorrosion properties of power steering fluid make it non-corrosive. 

However, the properties may not stay intact for good which can enable the fluid to cause corrosion.  

Shelf Life Of Power Steering Fluid

Depending on different factors such as contamination, extreme heat, and pressure, the chemical compounds used in the hydraulic fluid can change and deteriorate. If unopened, the fluid can stay good for around 3 to 5 years. Meanwhile, opened fluid can last up to 2 or 3 years. 

However, the frequency of use and several other factors can reduce the shelf life and degrade the fluid sooner than it should. 

So, what happens to power steering fluid over time? As time goes by, the power steering fluid can oxidize which results in a change of color and buildup of residual varnish on the pump valves. When it deteriorates, the fluid loses properties that keep the seals and O-rings pliable. And as these parts harden, it ends up causing poor performance of the fluid and leaks. 

In short, the ingredients in the fluid can break down over time which decreases its efficiency leading to the liquid becoming corrosive. Not just that, these after-effects are also what happens if you never change power steering fluid.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When Should Power Steering Fluid Be Changed? 

We must flush power steering fluid after every 40,000 to 80,000 miles. However, it may vary since manufacturers can recommend the change sooner or later than the range.  

That said, some warnings can let you know that it’s time for a replacement. Here are 6 signs you need to change power steering fluid. 

1. Heavy or difficult steering: Due to low or degraded power steering fluid.
2. Color changes: From healthy light red to amber, gray, or black due to oxidation.
3. Burnt smell: Due to damage of fluid as a result of overheating.
4. Strange noises: Since the fluid deterioration will make the moving parts of the steering system cause abrasive friction. You may hear whining, scraping, squeaking, and scratching noises. 
5. Bubbles: In the hydraulic fluid of power steering.
6. Leakage: Due to degradation of the fluid.

2. How Do You Fix Power Steering Fluid Leak? 

Fixing power steering fluid leaks depends on the causes behind them. If it’s the pressure valves or hose that’s broken, then you can buy and replace the parts yourself. In case the seal is broken, then you need to consider a full hose replacement. For that, it’s better to bring the car to the service center and let the experts do the job. 

In any case, we suggest you take the experts’ help to fix serious fluid leaks since doing it yourself can be unsafe for you and the car. Typically, the leak may cost around $500 to 700$ to repair depending on the parts that failed. 

3. What Happens If I Spill Power Steering Fluid?

It’s not a problem if there’s a little spill of power steering fluid on the engine and transmission. It will just get oily and dirt and won’t cause any harm. You can fix it by wiping the parts with a degreaser. 

If the fluid gets on the exhaust pipe, manifold, or catalytic converter, it may cause smoke. However, the smoke shouldn’t cause the exhaust components to burst into flames. But we suggest you contact an expert in case of such smoke to be safe as it can cause a fire too. 

Final Words

Power steering fluid has anti-corrosion properties that help it prevent corrosion as long as it’s functional. Nevertheless, extreme heat, pressure, and contaminants can affect the agents and make them prone to corrosion. 

Hence, you should flush the fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Also, look for signs of degradation in case the fluid goes bad sooner. 

Related Post:

• Does Engine Oil Affect Brakes?