Wondering which power steering fluid is best?
Power steering fluid is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is running properly. There are many on the market and it’s important to understand which one is best for your vehicle.
We’ve chosen Preston AS261 Power Steering Fluid as our top overall pick because it’s appreciated by consumers and can be used with a variety of vehicles, including GM, Ford, Chrysler, and many global manufacturers. It’s also sold at a good price point.
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This article provides you with a list of the best power steering fluids, making it easier for you to determine which one is best.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may receive a small commission (at zero cost to you).
The Top 3 Power Steering Fluids
IN THIS GUIDE
TOP PICK – Power Steering Fluid
TOP PICK – Power Steering Fluid
Preston AS261 Power Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Prevents abnormal wear
- Stops squealing
- Formulated with anti-wear agents
- Effective in maintaining a smooth power steering operation
What We Don’t Like
- Not ideal for Asian manufactured vehicles
Summary: The Preston AS261 is a super affordable power steering fluid that comes with anti-wear agents to protect pump components.
It prevents abnormal wear and tear by minimizing the friction within the power steering system and improving the steering system parts’ durability.
Whether your car is a low or high mileage vehicle, you can use this steering fluid for a smoother power steering operation in all temperatures.
It was formulated to protect modern power steering systems against major pump breakdowns and squeals, which result from oxidation, foaming, and wear.
The Preston AS261 is compatible with various vehicles, including Ford, GM, and Chrysler vehicles.
It can also work well on most foreign cars and small trucks as it meets all the manufacturer’s requirements for various vehicles. The fluid will not interfere with your car’s warranty.
Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002 Power Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Ideal for all Honda models
- Improves steering
- Protects the power steering system parts
- Transmits pressure to avoid whining and squealing sounds
What We Don’t Like
- Compatible with only Honda vehicles
Summary: If you are looking for the best power steering fluid for your Honda that will not void your car’s warranty, you can’t go wrong with this product.
The Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002 is a high-quality fluid made explicitly for all Honda vehicles.
It’s designed to protect and lubricate your vehicle’s steering system parts. This is the perfect choice for every Honda driver, as other steering fluid types can void the warranty.
This power steering fluid is adequate for transmitting pressure in the entire steering system to eliminate squealing and whining sounds.
Most Honda drivers prefer this power steering fluid as other manufacturers’ power steering fluid can cause damage to the steering system.
Honda 08206 9002PE Power Steering Fluid Pack of 3
What We Like
- It’s an ideal Honda OEM fluid
- Improves steering
- Prevents squealing and whining sounds
- Offers excellent protection to the power steering system
What We Don’t Like
- Made only for Honda vehicles
Summary: Honda boasts of the Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002PE as their excellent power steering fluid for all Honda vehicles.
This fluid is formulated to protect the power steering system while improving it by lubricating the various power steering parts.
It transmits pressure within the steering system to steer clear of any squealing or whining noises.
To flush your entire steering system with this fluid, you will need to purchase about three bottles.
The Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002PE is compatible with all Honda vehicles, and it comes in a pack of three as needed by Honda manufacturers for all Honda cars.
You won’t have to worry about your vehicle’s warranty as this fluid is an OEM product.
Lubegard 23232 Complete Synthetic Power Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Compatible with many vehicles
- Improves the steering overall performance and longevity
- Effective in both low and high temperatures
- Reduces friction for better power steering
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
Summary: The Lubegard 23232 is a completely synthetic power steering fluid compatible with all vehicle makes and models.
It’s formulated to improve the overall performance and durability of the power steering.
This highly-rated power steering fluid performs well when it comes to reducing friction within the power steering.
It delivers outstanding anti-wear protection that beats most OEM power steering fluids.
The completely synthetic power steering fluid can be used on power and power-assisted steering systems to improve the steering.
With this product, you can be sure that it will eliminate all squealing and whining noises and other issues like rust and damaged seals.
It also removes all the stiffness related to the steering rack and keeps the turbines and pumps clean.
However, this steering fluid is an expensive option as it costs more than most universal power steering fluids in the market.
Lucas Oil Power Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Improves durability of the various parts of the steering system
- Enhances the steering response
- Universal compatibility
What We Don’t Like
- It does not last long compared to other universal fluids
Summary: The Lucas Oil Power Steering Fluid is a highly-rated universal fluid you can buy for your car.
It’s compatible with a wide range of vehicle makes to keep the hydraulic system running efficiently.
This power steering fluid comes in a comprehensive formula that gives it the capabilities to protect wear and tear in your steering system.
Its reviving formula guarantees extended durability of your O-rigs, seals, pumps, cylinders, and valves.
The fluid is designed to reduce friction and boost the overall health of your steering system to create an excellent driving experience.
Unfortunately, the Lucas Oil Power Steering Fluid does not last long compared to other universal fluids due to its added protective qualities.
Lucas Oil 10008 Power Steering Fluid
What We Like
- It prevents wear and tear
- Universal compatibility
- Stop leak capability
- Reduces friction and stiffness
What We Don’t Like
- Not very effective when mixed with other fluids
Summary: The Lucas Oil 10008 is a high-performance power steering that’s formulated to reduce friction and stiffness efficiently.
It comes with a money-back guarantee if it cannot stop the leaks when used in the recommended vehicle makes and models.
With a sharp tip, the can that holds this fluid ensures easy pouring and prevents spillages.
This universal power steering fluid is compatible with a wide range of vehicle makes. It helps eliminate squeals, hard spots, slack, and tight steering.
The fluid uses a unique formula to condition O-rings and prevent problems associated with rack and pinion.
However, this fluid should never be mixed with other fluids whenever possible, as this may reduce its efficiency.
Genuine Nissan EPSF00P Electric Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Prevents hardening
- Compatible with all motor vehicles
- Prevents squeals, corrosion, oxidation, and wear
What We Don’t Like
- A bit pricey
Summary: The Genuine Nissan EPSF00P Electric Fluid is tailored for Nissans, but also handy for other models.
It lubricates the various steering parts and reduces the amount of friction in the power steering system.
This fluid can improve the overall performance and durability of your vehicle’s steering system. It also helps prevent seals from shrinking and hardening.
While the fluid is excellent for all Nissan vehicles, it’s a bit pricey compared to other power steering fluids.
Quicksilver 858075Q01 Power Trim and Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Prevents oxidation and corrosion
- Superior quality
- Prevents wear and tear by reducing friction
What We Don’t Like
- Not usable in electric power steering systems
Summary: The Quicksilver 858075Q01 is an outstanding hydraulic steering fluid designed for superior performance in power trim and steering systems.
It helps protect seals and hoses from wearing out quickly while still avoiding oxidation and corrosion.
With its superior quality, you can be sure that this fluid will last longer in your steering system and improve the steering.
Quicksilver recommends this power trim and steering fluid for all outboard and sterndrive applications. However, you should never use it in electric power steering systems that use synthetic fluid.
ACDelco Power Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Prevents corrosion and foaming
- Reduces steering noise
- Affordable
What We Don’t Like
- Not very durable
Summary: If you are looking for an affordable power steering fluid, this product is for you.
The ACDelco Power Steering Fluid is mineral oil with a specially infused additive.
This amber-colored formulation ensures that the fluid provides excellent lubrication in your steering system while resisting corrosion and foaming.
The fluid is designed for vehicles with a regular hydraulic power steering system to improve all-weather performance.
Like most power steering fluids, the ACDelco steering fluid will help reduce noise in your power steering system.
Red Line 30404 Power Steering Fluid
What We Like
- Compatible with many vehicles
- Prevents corrosion and foaming
- Prevents wear and tear
What We Don’t Like
- Not ideal for ATF recommended cars
Summary: The Red Line 30404 is a high-quality power steering fluid that meets many cars’ requirements, including Mazda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, and others.
It works well even in steering systems that use synthetic or petroleum blends.
This non-foaming fluid is designed to protect against normal wear and tear, thermal breakdown, and evaporation.
Another fascinating thing about this fluid is that it’s heat-resistant to problems caused by high temperatures.
While different types of cars can use this fluid, you should never use it in vehicles that require ATF.
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid made to transfer power in modern vehicles with power steering. It allows drivers to turn the steering wheel with ease.
Different vehicles require different kinds of steering fluid, with some using ATF transmission fluid like MERCON or DEXRON.
Most newer vehicles use synthetic-based hydraulic fluid specifically made for power steering use.
3 Benefits of Power Steering Fluid
- Corrosion Protection: Power steering fluids can protect the metal components in your vehicle’s steering system. This will help reduce the future costs of repairing the steering system.
- Ease of Use: The power steering fluid is designed to help you turn your car effortlessly. It also makes it easy for you to drive around.
- Prevents Leakages: Power Steering fluids that use stop leak protection are also beneficial in your steering system. They use plasticizers to revive the rubber seals in your steering system.
Types of Power Steering Fluid
OEM Power Steering Fluids
OEM fluids are made by the manufacturers who made your car. They have several benefits compared to other fluids since they are made specifically for your vehicle’s make and model.
You won’t have to worry about compatibility issues as you know that you are using the same fluids that are already in your vehicle’s system.
Third-Party Power Steering Fluids
Third-party manufacturers make third-party power steering fluids, which are compatible with specific brands.
While most of them claim to work well in many vehicles, it’s essential to know that some of them may not work for your vehicle’s steering system.
Third-party fluids are relatively cheaper than the OEM fluids. With these fluids, however, you may not be able to protect your car with individualized coverage.
4 Signs You Need to Change Your Power Steering Fluid
Difficulty When Turning the Wheels
This is the most obvious sign since the power steering fluid is made to make it easy to drive or turn your vehicle.
If you notice that your steering has started functioning differently, it’s essential to check your power steering fluid level.
Vibrating Steering Wheel
If you notice that your steering wheel has started to vibrate, you will want to be extra cautious as it can be challenging to fully control your vehicle.
When the steering wheel is vibrating, it makes it harder to make turns. In this case, you can find a safe location and park to check your power steering fluid as it’s probably low.
Squealing Noises
Squealing or whining noises produced when turning the wheels are common signs of low steering fluid.
Since the steering system uses a pump for the fluid to ensure smooth steering, low fluid means that air will circulate through the steering system and make strange sounds.
If you notice these sounds as your wheels turn, it’s time to change the power steering fluid.
Leaking Fluid
Leaking fluid is another common sign that you need to change your power steering fluid. To see if there are fluid leakages, take the cap off the reservoir and see if there is any fluid.
If there is no fluid at all, chances are there is a leak. For such scenarios, it’s essential to react appropriately.
4 Things to Consider When Buying the Best Power Steering Fluid
When buying the best power steering fluid, there are many factors you will want to consider to ensure that you get the right product. These factors include:
Stop Leak Capability
While the power steering fluid’s primary purpose is to keep your vehicle’s hydraulic power system working, some fluids are formulated with stop leak capabilities.
Such fluids can revive the rubber seals in the steering system while still keeping the system working. This all-in-one formula is excellent for steering system performance and protection.
Compatibility
If you want to buy a third-party fluid, it’s crucial to know if the fluid is compatible with your vehicle.
Keep in mind that most third-party fluids have specific vehicles for which they were created. The good thing is that every bottle will tell you what vehicles the fluid can be used with.
It’s important not to ignore these instructions as each vehicle has its own power steering needs. You don’t want to put the wrong fluid in your car.
Transmission Fluid
There are some steering fluids that claim to work well with other fluids like transmission and brake fluids.
However, transmission, brake, and steering fluids are designed for their respective systems, though they may have similar qualities.
You cannot buy automatic transmission fluid to use in your power steering system as it can result in damages to some components.
Longevity
Another vital thing to consider when buying the best power steering fluid is how long it will last.
Fluids that feature protectives agents usually have a shorter lifespan than those that don’t. The best thing to do is to identify your needs and go for the suitable power steering fluid.
FAQs For The Best Power Steering Fluids
What color should power steering fluid be?
Power steering fluid is red. Your vehicle uses two fluids that are red, power steering fluid and automatic transmission fluid. If you have a leak, it can be tricky to determine which fluid is leaking since both are red.
Can I add new power steering fluid to old power steering fluid?
No, do not add new power steering fluid to old power steering fluid. Drain the old power steering fluid first and then add the new fluid.
Is flushing power steering fluid necessary?
Flushing power steering fluid is not necessary unless there are a lot of contaminants. If the power steering fluid is clean, a drain will work.
Can I drive my car with low power steering fluid?
Yes, you might be able to drive your car with low power steering fluid but the steering wheel will be hard to turn, making it dangerous to drive. It’s best to add more power steering fluid as soon as possible.
Summary – The 10 Best Power Steering Fluids
Power steering fluid is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is running properly. There are many on the market and it’s important to understand which one is best for your vehicle.
We’ve chosen Preston AS261 Power Steering Fluidas our top overall pick because it’s appreciated by consumers and can be used with a variety of vehicles, including GM, Ford, Chrysler, and many global manufacturers. It’s also sold at a good price point.
If you drive a Honda, the Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002 Power Steering Fluid is a great option and it’s compatible with all Honda cars.
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API