As vehicle owners, we are taught to focus on important maintenance tasks such as changing our oil and filter or checking and replacing coolant.  When it comes to vehicle fluids, oil and coolant definitely play an important role in keeping a vehicle engine running smoothly.  But often other vital fluids are neglected in the maintenance process until a problem develops.  Two of those fluids that take a backseat to oil and coolant are the power steering and brake fluids.  

In this blog, we explain the purpose and importance of power steering and brake fluids, and examine common problems associated with these two fluids and why vehicle owners do not want to neglect these in their maintenance routine.  

What are power steering and brake fluids?

There is a common misconception that power steering and brake fluid are the same.  These two vital fluids have unique properties and composition to serve their purposes within the vehicle braking and steering systems.  

The table below highlights the main functions of each of the fluids.

Fluid Type	Functions
Power Steering	- Lubricates the power steering pump and other steering system components - Provides hydraulic assistance to the power steering to help turn the wheel of the vehicle - Aids with the prevention of corrosion within the power steering system and parts
Brake	- Provides hydraulic pressure on the brake calipers when depressing the brake pedal, thus allowing the calipers to clamp the brake pads and stop a vehicle in motion - Lubricates components within the braking system - Aids with the prevention of corrosion within the power steering system and parts

In many ways, the two fluids act similarly to support their systems.  However, these fluids ultimately control different outcomes in the driving process.  Power steering is important because problems with it can impact vehicle steering and brake fluid can impact braking.  Both of these are critical functions to driving and are safety issues.  That’s why it’s so important to keep the fluids at the proper levels and ensure that they are kept clean in order to perform their functions.  

What are the common problems with power steering and brake fluids?

Both power steering and brake fluids can be subjected to dirt over time and use, along with possible leaks.  Below are the more common problems with these fluids:

Fluid Type	Problems	Causes	Solutions
Power Steering	- Grinding sound while turning - Evidence of power steering fluid on the ground - Low power steering fluid levels	Power steering fluid leaks or air in the system	Address source of leaks to avoid complications to steering system
Brake	Dirty brake fluid	Aging and contamination of brake fluid	Brake fluid flush and replacement
Brake	Low fluid level (indicated by checking it or a dashboard warning)	Possible leak(s)	Locate and repair leak(s)
Brake	Soft or mushy sound when depressing the brake pedal	Moisture build up in the brake fluid resulting in air in the brake lines	Brake fluid bleed and flush

When should power steering and brake fluids be maintenanced?

While power steering and brake fluids do not need frequent changes, if you have your vehicle for a significant period of time it will probably require a full replacement of these fluids.  

Average timeframes for changing these fluids are as follows:

• Power steering fluid:  Every two years or approximately 50,000 miles driven
• Brake fluid:  Depends on vehicle make and model.  Consult with owner’s manual.

If you are concerned about possible steering or brake fluid issues, contact a service professional at Geller’s Automotive today to schedule an appointment.  We will inspect your power steering and brake fluid and make recommendations to you about any replacement or possible repairs.