RAVENOL SSF Special Power Steering Fluid 1L

While it is often overlooked, power steering fluid should generally be flushed and replaced every 40,000 to 80,000 miles (or every 2 to 4 years). Over time, the fluid degrades from constant high heat and accumulates microscopic metal shavings and rubber debris from degrading internal hoses. Fresh fluid protects the power steering pump and significantly extends the life of the steering rack.

It depends entirely on your vehicle’s specific requirements. While many older vehicles were designed to use standard ATF (such as Dexron) in the power steering system, most modern European and advanced vehicles require highly specialized synthetic hydraulic fluids (such as CHF 11S or G 004 000 M2). Using ATF in a system designed for specialized green hydraulic fluid will swell the internal seals and rapidly destroy the steering pump.

Visually, healthy power steering fluid is typically clear, amber, or bright green/red depending on the specification. If the fluid looks dark brown or black, or smells severely burnt, it has degraded. Mechanical symptoms of bad fluid include a heavy or stiff steering wheel, a loud “whining” or “groaning” noise from the pump when turning, or a jerky feeling in the steering column.

Foaming or bubbling in the fluid reservoir is almost always caused by air trapped in the hydraulic system. This usually occurs due to a low fluid level, a microscopic crack in a suction hose, or a failing O‑ring on the power steering pump allowing air to be drawn in. If you notice foam, the system must be inspected for leaks and properly bled to restore safe, consistent steering pressure.