Different cars use different power steering fluids. Therefore, before deciding what power steering fluid you need, you should first know what type of car you own.
In this brief guide, we’ll help you decide what power steering fluid to pick and how often you should change your car’s power steering fluid. So, let’s dig in.
Power Steering Fluids In Different Car models
In Layman’s terms, the power steering fluid is the medium between the steering and the wheels of a car.
This fluid makes it easier to turn the vehicle tires with the steering with little to no force.
It doesn’t expire that fast, but you would have to change it after some time to ensure that it keeps working correctly.
Using the steering fluid helps the driver have more command over the car and better handling. Power steering comes in two types: hydraulic and electric.
Many different types of steering fluids are used in different cars. We will go through them one by one.
Ford Focus
Mercon V-type power steering fluid is used in the Ford Focus cars. The vehicle has its fluid container near the car engine and a black cap.
It is recommended to always use the Mercon V-type power steering fluid in the car to have everything under control. It is a hydraulic steering fluid.
Opel/Vauxhall Zafira
Opel Zafira came out in 2011 and is considered a family car manufactured by Opel with a five-door body style and compact MPV class.
“Zafira” is taken from the Arabic language, “To succeed.”
Dexron II D power steering fluid is used in most Opel manufactured cars.
The steering fluid container is mainly found near the car engine and has a black cap. It is a hydraulic power steering fluid.
Mercedes-Benz
If you talk about famous car models and don’t talk about Mercedes-Benz, that would be disrespectful.
The Mercedes-Benz company sold more than 2 million cars in 2018 only, making it the largest seller of the year.
Pentosin CHF 11S, a power steering fluid, is primarily used in Mercedes-Benz cars and can be bought online.
It is an artificially made hydraulic steering fluid. It is mainly located on the right side of the car engine.
BMW E39 5 Series
BMW is one of the leading car brands in the world, and over decades the company has manufactured some of the best car models of their respective times like BMW E39 5 Series, BMW E38 7 Series, BMW X2, and others.
Most of the BMW cars need Cherry red ATF as power steering fluids. It is entirely hydraulic.
However, some BMW cars before the 2000s also need Pentosin CHF-11S as their steering fluid. So, if you own a BMW, either buy ATF or CHF-11S.
Audi A4
Audi has produced some of the best latest technology cars since its inauguration. The Audi A4 is of the Sedan style, and it took four years to manufacture (a quick fact).
The Audi A4 uses the PENTOSIN® power steering fluid, and most of the Audi cars use this steering fluid.
It is a hydraulic power steering fluid. Also, it is a synthetic fluid.
Toyota 86
Toyota is among the top manufacturers and ranks 5th in the list of best car brands with an 88% manufacturing rate. Toyota’s cars are one of the most affordable models in the world.
Most Toyota car models use Dexron II and Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid. This power steering fluid is hydraulic and synthetic.
You can find the fluid container near the car engine, and it has a black cap on it. So, if you own a Toyota car, Dexron II or III is the power steering fluid you need.
Kia Soul
Kia has made a significant impact on the world car market quickly. It has a 2.0 L Nu Atkinson engine type with 147 horsepower.
The suggested fluid for most Kia cars is K2 O580ML500S Power Steering Oil.
Some others are PSF-4 and PENTOSIN® power steering fluids, which are artificially hydraulic steering fluids. You can find the reservoir near its window and below the hood.
Honda Accord
Honda produces the most reliable car models in the industry and is quite popular among families. The Honda Accord is no different.
Honda Accord provides the best quality to its customers at a very reasonable price.
Most Honda cars use Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002 power steering fluid and Genuine Honda Fluid 08798-9008 DOT 3.
You will find the reservoir near the car engine and usually has a black cap.
Mazda 6
Mazda’s trucks and its cars offer the best quality in its models.
Mazda 6 has around 227 horsepower and can accommodate five people at a time. The company provides up to 3 years of warranty, and it is highly affordable.
Mazda 6 uses Prestone – American Vehicle power steering fluid that is electric and artificially synthesized.
This model and many other models also use the same Prestone – American Vehicle fluid for their power steering.
Jaguar XF
Jaguar is one of the leading car brands in the world in 2021.
The Jaguar XF offers a Sedan body type with four cylinders and a Turbocharger. It can easily accommodate around 5 or 6 people at a time.
The Jaguar XF uses MANNOL power steering fluid and MANNOL 8980 steering fluid.
Most of the Jaguar car models use the same steering fluid. It is artificially synthesized and is entirely hydraulic.
When Should You Change Power Steering Fluid?
Honestly, it depends on which kind of power steering fluid you are using. Different steering fluids have different changing timelines, and one must know them before changing the fluid.
But generally, you should change the steering fluids in around 4 to 5 years or if your car has traveled more than 40,000 to 55,000 miles.
You can also check manually if the fluid needs changing. Usually, the power steering fluid should be lighter in color; if not, it may be time to consider replacing it.
Or, if you find any waste material inside the fluid, it needs changing.
Conclusion
To conclude, different cars require and work best with different power steering fluids.
For instance, the ideal power steering fluid for Ford Focus is Mercon V-type. Honda cars use their own Genuine Honda Fluid 08206-9002 power steering fluid.
Jaguar XF cars need MANNOL power steering fluid. At the same time, Mercedes-Benz works best with Pentosin CHF 11S.
The power steering fluid you need will mainly depend on your car’s make and model.
We recommend you study your car model before buying a power steering fluid. It will help you decide better what power steering fluid you need for your car.
Please feel free to add anything you think we missed mentioning in this brief guide.
Also, if you have other questions, comment below. We’d love to help!
Patrick started his love affair with cars in his childhood. Over the years, he claims a sturdy hold on his driving skills, along with a thorough understanding of cars. We can expect some interesting, holistic, and pleasurable blogs with his flair for writing and his love for cars.
Being a car enthusiast, Patrick has experience comprising of two decades in which he has ridden some of the meanest and strongest machines in the automotive industry. His previous avatars include an automotive professional, photographer, and journalist, and you will certainly experience the roundness of experience in his piece on this site.
In his second decade of reviewing cars and analyzing tools, Patrick is all set to give you convincing, reliable, and the latest information regarding what’s happening in the automotive industry. Currently, he owns a BMW Z3 but cannot get his eyes off Aston Martin DB5. He is a car enthusiast; he loves cooking and listening to music, especially jazz. Here are some of the pieces written by our ace author.
