Best Power Steering Fluids Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Today’s technology improvements made the lives of weekend warriors a lot easier. We get to enjoy the tools and accessories designed to ease our everyday jobs. The goal of all companies on the market is to make products that will allow consumers to build, repair, and demolish things all on our own. We all want to avoid the hassle and the expenses of visiting mechanic shops.
Why wouldn’t we save some time and money when the alternative is so simple? You only need to get proper products for the job. The most common mistake here is to overlook fluids designed for vehicle maintenance. For example, power steering is a technology added to new cars to enhance their performance. It makes turning the vehicle easier, ensures a smoother ride, and reduces engine noise. However, to work properly, this system needs regular maintenance. You need to power it up with a special kind of fluids. Once you have the steering system at its peak power, you’ll also improve your vehicle’s performance. Therefore, using power steering fluids is a must for every driver. If you have never used them before, now is the right time to start.
Featured Recommendations
- Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002
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Our rating - Top-Notch
- Price: See Here
- Pentosin CHF 11S
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Our rating - Strong Formula
- Price: See Here
- Prestone AS263
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Our rating - Budget-Friendly
- Price: See Here
Choosing a proper fluid is not an easy task. Nowadays, there are so many different types that we often get confused about their diversity. There’s where we step in! To help you out with all those power steering fluids types, we did thorough market research. Our 10 best picks are designed for different systems, vehicles, and other fluids. You’ll find at least one product that meets your every need and expectation! If you’re ready, let’s start right away:
10 Best Power Steering Fluids
Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002
It’s super safe for use, and it won’t damage the steering system. The product features synthetic formula that's very high in viscosity. If you own a Honda, you should stick with this fluid. Other products could cause a lot of damage because of the sensitive Honda system. With this one, you’re going to improve the performance of your vehicle while also keeping it safe.
Easy to Use
This formula is very easy to use. Even the complete beginners can flush the entire system with ease. The bottle is well designed and allows for a firm and comfortable grip. It doesn’t feature a handle, but it is compact and easy to hold. With a few simple steps, you'll get your vehicle at its peak power and enjoy smoother rides!
Cost and Value
This comes in a bottle of 12 ounces. While this amount is enough for small vehicles, you'll need at least three bottles for larger ones! Luckily, the product is reasonably priced so getting three bottles won’t break the bank.
Compatible with all Honda vehicles
Safe and efficient
Synthetic formula high in viscosity
Easy to use
Smooth and quiet steering
Well priced
Only for Honda models
Pentosin CHF 11S
This is one of the most popular fluids on the market. It features a synthetic formula that proves to be very strong. It cleans with ease yet it's safe for engine components. The fluid is suitable for modern vehicle aggregates and a variety of vehicles. You can use it on BMW models, Opel, Porche, SAAB, Fendt, Bentley, and Volvo.
Simple Flush
The fluid is perfect for all weather conditions. It can be used from -40 to 130°C. It’s designed to give full flush in a few simple actions. You don’t have to go to the mechanics to keep your vehicle at its best! The fluid will ensure a quiet ride and smooth steering.
The only thing that we didn’t like about this product is the design of the bottle. The company changed the old bottle because they wanted to give their customers a better experience. But they made it worse! The new cans don’t have pouring straws and they are difficult to hold. Be extra careful when pouring the liquid if you want to avoid making a mess in the working area!
Cost and Value
This one comes in a bottle of 33 ounces. It’s reasonably priced and you can flush the entire system with only one bottle. However, if you do have some extra money to spend, we recommend getting a few of these. It’s useful to have them in your garage for emergencies!
Reliable and popular company
Strong yet safe formula
Compatible with a variety of vehicles
Perfect for all weather conditions
Ensures smooth and quiet performance
Reasonable price
The new bottle is poorly designed
Prestone AS263
This one is designed to maintain steering systems and stop leaks. It ensures smooth performance and reduces the annoying noise coming from an old system! The product is compatible with many vehicle types. You can even mix it with a lot of factory fluids used by Ford, Chrysler, and others. However, it might be unsuitable for some cars made in Asia. Double-check the description to see whether it works for your vehicle.
Exceptional Formula
The formula is completely safe and won’t damage the system. It’s made of high-quality oil and contains additives that restore seals. Additionally, it offers protection against corrosion and promotes a longer lifespan of metal parts in your vehicle.
The bottle is convenient and easy to use. You won’t have any issues with pouring the liquid in the steering system.
You should only keep in mind that in some cases, it takes time for this formula to work. Don’t give up on it if you don’t see the results immediately! They’ll follow if you continue to use it regularly.
Cost and Value
This is available in two bottles. You can pick between 12 or 32 ounces, both are dirt cheap! We recommend sticking with the bigger one. It’ll last longer so you won’t have to bother with frequent purchases.
Perfect for regular maintenance
Prevents and stops leaks
Compatible with different vehicles and factory fluids
Strong and safe formula
Easy to use
Dirt cheap
Unsuitable for some vehicles made in Asia
Genuine Ford XT-5-5QM
This is designed for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. It’s perfect for regular maintenance, preventing and reducing leaks rather efficiently. The fluid is colored in red which allows you to detect the leaks immediately.
Quick and Reliable
The fluid is high in viscosity and contains oils and additives. It’s completely safe for steering systems so you can use it for the entire flush. You'll notice the difference in your vehicle performance almost immediately. You won’t only turn with great ease, but also enjoy the absence of noise!
Cost and Value
This amazing fluid comes in a bottle of 16 ounces, 1 quart, and 5 quarts. You can pick the one that suits you the most, they are all well priced! A little goes a long way, so you won’t be needing a new product anytime soon.
Perfect for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury
Regular maintenance and leak prevention
Colored in red for leak detection
A safe formula
Efficient and quick
Cheap
Limited use
Royal Purple ROY01326 MAX EZ
This product is perfect for steering system maintenance. It cleans the components, extends the pump’s life, and prevents corrosion. It’s compatible with most vehicle and engine types. You can also mix it with other fluids, but make sure to check their compatibility first.
You should only keep in mind that some buyers didn’t manage to use it on their vehicles. It might be unsuitable for some car models. Double-check the compatibility and don’t hesitate to call the company before the purchase. This will reduce the chances of getting the wrong fluid for your vehicle.
Safe and Efficient
This features a formula that contains oils and additives. This makes it safe for the steering system yet very efficient. The formula works to improve the vehicle’s performance and prolong its lifespan. You get to turn effortlessly and enjoy a smooth and quiet ride!
The bottle is very convenient and easy to use. Even the first-time buyers will easily get the hold of it. The flush process is simple and it won’t take too much time. However, don't hesitate to search for some additional guides if you need them.
Cost and Value
This comes in a 12 ounces bottle, and it's dirt cheap. You can even opt for the package of 12 bottles if you want to save more money. Truth to be told, this might be the best option. You'll need more than one bottle to flush the entire system. Save yourself from the hassle of additional purchases, and get the big pack!
Perfect for regular maintenance
Cleans the components and improves performance
Reduces noise and prevents corrosion
Suitable for different vehicle types
Contains oil and additives
An attractive price
Might be incompatible with some car models
Lucas Oil 10442
This is a rather universal option that works on many engines and vehicles. Some even use it for Honda models, and you know how sensitive they are! Lucas Oil also works with a variety of other fluids. You should still compare it to other products you use, but there shouldn’t be any issues.
Oil-Based Formula
It features an oil-based formula with a lot of additives. It is a safe and powerful liquid that improves the performance of the steering system. Of course, that leads to the overall better performance of your vehicle. It'll run smoothly and quietly, allowing you to enjoy every ride.
All in all, this works to protect and extend the lifespan of your vehicle components.
Cost and Value
Unfortunately, this one is only available in a bottle of 16 ounces. You’ll need approximately 2-3 bottles for cars and around 4 bottles for trucks. At least it comes at an attractive price, so getting several bottles won't break the bank. Also, you might find that the smaller bottle is easier to maneuver when pouring the fluid.
Works on a variety of engines and vehicles
Compatible with other fluids as well
Oil-based formula with additives
Improves performance and protects the system
Safe and efficient
Well priced
Only comes in a bottle of 16 ounces
You’ll need more than 2 bottles to flush the entire system
Genuine Nissan Fluid 999MP-EPSF00P
This is perfect for regular maintenance and for repairing old, non-treated systems. It prevents and stops leaks, corrosion, oxidation, and wear. You’ll notice the improvement in your vehicle performance almost immediately. It’s suitable for any Nissan model. Some even use it for other vehicle types.
We recommend this only if you are familiar with the characteristics of your vehicle. If not, don’t take any chances!
More Efficiency
The product features a strong formula for more efficiency. It’s made of detergents and additives for better performance. You can use it on all weather conditions. The product is safe, reliable, and incredibly efficient. The flush process is super easy as well. We also liked the simple design of the bottle as it makes pouring the liquid super easy.
Cost and Value
This is available in a bottle of 32 ounces. It’s expensive, we give you that, but it’s well worth it. Consider the fact that this is the only certificated fluid for Nissan vehicles. If you want to keep your vehicle protected and avoid damages, there’s no better product for you! Additionally, if you use it regularly, this bottle will last for quite some time.
Perfect for regular maintenance
Prevents and stops leaks, corrosion, and much more
Instant improvement in the steering system
The strong formula for more efficiency
Safe and reliable
Easy to use
Only for Nissan
Expensive
Red Line 30404
This can be used on a variety of engines. You can use it on Mazda, Mitsubishi, Porche, Nissan, an others. It’s even compatible with a lot of other fluids. Just don’t forget to read the description and compare the specs for a perfect match. Keep in mind that some users didn’t find it suitable for their car models. Therefore, it’s not universal and has to be compared with the vehicle you own.
Synthetic Formula
This one features a high-viscosity synthetic formula that's resistant to thermal breakdown. It's very efficient and works quickly. You'll notice the improvement instantly! We find it perfect for regular maintenance. It improves the performance of the steering system and makes the vehicle more powerful. Not to mention the absence of noise and easier turning!
Cost and Value
The fluid comes in a bottle of 32 ounces. It’s reasonably priced, and you can get a pack of 12 bottles. This is a great option if you want to save even more money.
Suitable for different vehicle types
Compatible with most other fluids
Features a synthetic formula
Efficient and safe for use
Well priced
Not compatible with all vehicles
Genuine Mercedes Q1460001
This is designed for Mercedes, but it can be used with some other vehicles as well. It’s also compatible with some other regular fluids, so you can combine it or use it independently.
The only thing that bothered some buyers is slow performance. It sometimes takes time for this fluid to reach its full potential and completely fix the problem.
Smooth and Quiet Operation
The product is designed to improve different steering systems. It works to ensure smooth and quiet operation and makes driving more enjoyable. It reduces wear, oxidation, and foaming, and cleans the entire system. You can finally improve your vehicle’s performance without going to the mechanic. However, be careful when pouring the liquid. The bottle is a little slippery, and you could easily make a mess.
Cost and Value
The Genuine Mercedes Q1460001 comes in a bottle of 33 ounces and at an attractive price. Therefore, it’s perfect for those on a limited budget who are searching for a cheap and reliable product. With a little bit of this fluid, you’ll significantly improve your vehicle’s performance. Just don’t forget to use it regularly.
Specially designed for Mercedes
Compatible with some other fluids
Ensures quiet and smooth operation
Cleans the entire system
An attractive price
Takes time to work
A bottle is a little slippery
Lubegard 23232
This is super versatile! You can use it on all vehicles made in Europe, Nort America, and Asia. Well, except maybe from Honda, but that doesn’t come as a surprise. You can even mix it with some other fluids without worrying about the safety of the steering system. Just don’t forget to check the compatibility with other fluids and your vehicle type. You should always be extra careful.
Efficient Formula
What makes this product so special, you may ask? Its efficient formula, of course. The fluid reduces friction and noise. It also protects the seal and hoses, preventing possible leaks, not to mention that it performs at any temperature. With the Lubeguard, you’ll be able to clean the entire system and keep it in perfect condition!
You should only be extra careful while adding the fluid. Make sure not to spill it on the other components because this one doesn’t feature corrosion-resistant formula. We know, it’s very inconvenient, but it’s worth the extra effort.
Cost and Value
This comes in a bottle of 32 ounces. It’s reasonably priced, but it could be more pricey for those who own big vehicles. Especially those who need to flush old, unmaintained systems. If this is the case with you, we have a simple solution. You can use a cheaper, regular fluid for the first flush and then finish with this one. It will still significantly improve the entire system.
Suitable for almost any vehicle type
Compatible with most regular fluids
Efficient formula
Reduces friction and noise
Prevents and seals leaks
Cleans the entire system
The formula is not corrosion-resistant
Pricey
Criteria Used in Evaluation of the Best Power Steering Fluids
Ranking our 10 picks was a challenging task. To give you the most accurate list, we had to apply strict criteria. We examined all the features and specs of each product on the list. Here are some of the things that influenced the evaluation:
Versatility
These fluids are not universal, and we don’t expect them to be. However, some of them are more versatile than others. Some can be used with a variety of vehicles. They can perform equally well on all engine and steering system types. These products collected some extra points during the evaluation.
Performance
These fluids should clean the steering system, prevent and stop leaks, wear, and other issues. Of course, a single product can’t usually do all these things. However, some perform equally well on different tasks. They clean and protect equally well, which makes them more desirable. We all want a multipurpose product, after all. That’s why we ranked the picks according to their overall performance.
Ease of Use
We know what you’re going to say. They are fluids, how hard could it be pouring it into the system? You might be surprised. You should keep in mind that not all bottles are the same. Some tend to be very slippery and hard to maneuver. Others could leak and cause storage issues. You won’t only waste the fluid in the process, but also damage your vehicle components. You could make a real mess of your vehicle, and your working environment. Therefore, this was a very important factor in the evaluation.
Cost and Value
Lastly, we had to compare the cost and value of every product on the list. We wanted to make sure that you’ll get what you want and at the price that works for you. After many hours of bottle and package comparisons, we manage to get through and offer you an accurate list. You’ll find a short review of cost and value along with every product. This should help you decide on a particular product, and get the one that meets your budget.
Other Factors to Consider
Picking a proper fluid for your steering system can be rather tricky. There are several things to consider if you want to make the right choice. The safety of your vehicle depends on it! Luckily for you, we are here to help. We listed some of the most important things to consider before the purchase:
Vehicle Type
You should first determine which fluid is compatible with your vehicle type. These products are not universal, and you’ll have to match them to your steering system. If you don’t, you can cause some serious damage to its components. Make sure to carefully read every product’s description before making the final decision.
Other Fluids
You should repeat the previous step when it comes to other fluid types. If you’re planning to mix fluids, you have to be sure that they are compatible. As we mentioned above, all products are different. They can’t be matched arbitrarily. If you’re not sure about their compatibility, take time to consult a mechanic or other professionals. Do what’s best for your vehicle!
Working Temperature
You should also check the working temperature range of the desired product. If you live in places that get extremely cold or hot, this is a very important step for you. Some fluids can’t work on too high or too low temperatures. They won’t cause damage to the steering system components, but they won’t give the necessary performance either. If you want to avoid getting the wrong fluid, you should check the temperature range of every product.
Another thing important to consider is viscosity. Fluids with high viscosity are resistant to high temperatures. If you live in the hot area, check the product’s viscosity. If it’s high enough, the fluid will work in extremely hot conditions.
Budget
Lastly, you should consider how much money you have to spend. If you’re on a tight budget, you should calculate the amount of fluid you need for flushing the entire system. Some can be really expensive. If they come in small bottles and you need 3 or 4 of them, you’ll have to pay a pretty penny to get the job done. Therefore, determine how much fluid you need and then opt for a particular bottle. We always recommend sticking with big packs that include several bottles. It’ll save you quite some money in longer terms, so it’s well worth the investment.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any common types of power steering fluids?
A: All of them are different because of the many vehicle types. Not all steering systems are the same, and you need the formula that works on the one you own. There are three types of these systems: the hydraulic, the electric, and the fully electric power steering. You should choose the type according to the system you have in your vehicle.
Q: Are all power steering fluids the same?
Q: No, they are not the same. They all tend to do the same thing, to maintain, clean, and improve the performance of the system. Still, they do it in different ways due to specific formulas. For example, Honda features a sensitive steering system that requires special fluid. If you use the wrong one, you can seriously damage its components. Therefore, choosing a proper type of fluid is crucial if you want what is best for your vehicle!
Q: Can I mix power steering fluids?
A: In some cases, you can mix different fluids. Still, you can’t pick any fluids and mix them. You need to match the compatible ones. It’s the same thing as choosing the proper fluid for your vehicle type. If you mix incompatible fluids, you could cause some damage to the components. Make sure to read every product’s description before you make any decision.
Q: What if I don’t flush the steering system?
A: If you don’t flush the system regularly you could cause serious damage to its parts. Both the power-steering pump and the rack can malfunction. You’ll eventually have to replace them at the cost of several hundred dollars! Therefore, flushing the system with a proper fluid is a cost-effective and smart option. It will also allow you to enjoy a smooth and quiet ride.
Q: When should I check the steering system?
A: The biggest sign comes from the noise caused by turning the steering wheel. However, you shouldn’t wait for this to happen to check the system. You should do regular maintenance in recommended intervals. This will protect your vehicle from different threats. Still, if you hear the noise or experience other difficulties between the recommended intervals, you should check the system again. Leaks could occur even when the fluid is used regularly.
Q: What if I overfill the system with fluid?
A: Overfilling the system will not cause overpressure, foaming, or blow seals. The steering system is full of the fluid itself. The extra amount will only take up the additional room in the reservoir. However, this doesn’t mean you should carelessly pour the fluid into the system. There could be other damages caused by this action. The reservoir could overflow and get to the engine, on the belts, and cause serious malfunctions. It could even start a fire in the most extreme situations. Therefore, make sure to add the proper amount of fluid. If you add too much, we recommend you to suck the extra fluid from the reservoir.
Sources
- , The Power Steering System & Steering Gear, Article
- , Power Steering Fluid, Article
- , Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Power Steering Pump, Article
