Without power steering fluid, you can’t run your car properly. Like any engine fluid, power steering fluid is also needed for your vehicle’s steering system. It’s because this fluid allows your steering to work properly and turn your wheels even at low speeds. But what happens if you have a low or out-of-power steering fluid?
When you’re low on steering fluid, think about what you can use as a substitute for power steering fluid. Well, if your fluid is finished and you have an emergency, you can use another fluid as a substitute. But which fluid can you use as a substitute? We will discuss it. Take your time; please read on.
Related: Power Steering Fluid vs Hydraulic Fluid: Any Difference?
What If You Are Out Of Power Steering Fluid?
When you can see you are out of power steering fluid, don’t think more. It’s because, without this fluid, you can drive your car for some time. But going to a service station as soon as possible is essential to top up your new fluids.
Power Steering Fluid Compatibility Chart
Power steering fluid meets the requirements of detergents, viscosity, additives, and other elements. Meeting these standards ensures you can use this fluid safely in certain vehicles. Because requirements vary between car makes and models, always use the recommended fluid in your owner’s manual. Some popular car recommendations given below:
| Make | Model | Fluid Type | OE |
| Audi | All models (1984-1989) | Pentosin CHF 7.1 | G002 000 |
| Audi | All models (1990-2005) | Pentosin CHF 115 | |
| Audi | All models (2006 on) | Pentosin CHF 202 | |
| BMW | All models (1987-1991/production) | Pentosin CHF 7.1 | 81 22 1 468 879 |
| BMW | All models (1990 on check owners manual) | Pentosin CHF 115 | 82 11 1 486 041 |
| Land Rover | Check application | Dexron II or III | |
| Toyota | All models | Dexron II or III | |
| Kia | Check application | P/S fluid or Dexron iii | |
| Suzuki | All models | Dexron II or III |
What Can I Substitute For Power Steering Fluid?
You just realized your car has no power steering fluid. So what now? The good thing is that you can use multiple alternatives instead of power steering fluid. Let’s look at what you can use for power steering fluid.
Engine Oil
Although engine oil has a much higher viscosity, you can use this engine oil instead of power steering fluid. Engine oil contains hydraulic properties, which make it suitable for use in place of power steering fluid. But to stabilize it, you should use less.
Axle Oil
The equation of axle and automobile oil is to decrease friction and dampen heat so as not to wear out quickly. Besides this, this oil’s essential impressive matter is its higher viscosity.
Axle oil changes are usually done simultaneously with the transmission oil. So you can use this Axle oil as a substitute for power steering fluid. It would help if you used the manufacturer’s recommended amount.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid is the most famous alternative for power steering fluid. Many manufacturers recommend using only ATF. But you should choose the right one for your car. The reason is that if you use the wrong fluid, your vehicle will be damaged very soon.
Every ATF or automatic transmission fluid carries its own viscosity, coefficient of friction, and additive. It’s best to consult an expert before replacing your car’s power steering fluid.
MERCON Transmission Fluid:
The other substitute is a MERCON, a type of ATF or automatic transmission fluid. You can use this fluid as a substitute for power steering fluid in a pinch. Mercon transmission fluid is composed of additives and mineral oil.
MERCON differs from DEXRON; you can use this fluid in your power steering systems for a long time. In particular, if you use that, it won’t damage your other elements and seals. Nevertheless, the problem with this fluid is it’s expensive and rare.
DEXRON Transmission Fluid:
Dexron is also a type of automatic transmission fluid. Usually, you also can use this fluid as a substitute. It also comes from additives and mineral oil.
As a power steering fluid, you can’t use this fluid in your power steering system. The reason is that it can damage your seals and other engine tools. Fortunately, without its several benefits, you can find this fluid everywhere and it is less expensive.
Brake Fluid:
Brake fluid is another alternative to power steering fluid. It’s a hydraulic fluid that helps transfer power from your feet to the brakes. Typically, Brake fluid is made of glycol and additives.
Though you can use this fluid as a power steering fluid, it will break down more often. That’s why you will need to replace this fluid quickly. Without this, it can damage your seals and other elements. So after using this fluid, please change it as soon as possible.
Hydraulic Fluid:
Most of the hydraulic fluid and power steering fluid have the same viscosity. So you can use this fluid as a substitute. But don’t use it for a long-term period. It’s because it can damage your engine seal.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q. Can I use transmission fluid for power steering?
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is typically used inside automatic transmissions. But it’s hardly recommended to use ATF as a substitute for power steering fluid. Some types of automatic transmission fluid are Dexron and Mercon, which also can be used for steering fluid.
Q. Can I use brake fluid as a substitute for power steering fluid?
If you have an emergency, you can use brake fluid as a power steering fluid. In some cases, brake fluid and power steering fluid are similar. But without an emergency, it’s recommended not to use brake fluid as a power steering fluid.
Q. Can you substitute motor oil for lower steering fluid?
Actually, it’s not recommended, but you can temporarily use this motor oil instead of power steering fluid. However, avoiding this fluid would help because of its higher viscosity.
Q. Can I use hydraulic fluid for power steering?
You can use this hydraulic fluid for power steering in an emergency.
Final Word:
What can be used as a substitute for power steering fluid? If you are coming here to know its answer. You are in the right place. Here, we have given some alternatives for power steering fluid that you can use.
Eventually, using the correct type of power steering fluid for your power steering system is essential. Before using any liquid, checking your owner’s manual is best. However, we hope you know some power steering fluids alternatives now. Best of luck. For more information, you can contact us.
Read Also: What Will Happen If I Put Brake Fluid In Power Steering