Land Rover Power Steering Fluid
Land Rover vehicles are built to the highest standards using only premium materials. To perform exceptionally around corners, your power steering system helps reduce steering effort for you. With a boost in force when turning your front wheels, it allows your three-tonne off-roader to seamlessly manoeuvre.
Your power steering relies on power steering fluid to operate. The high-pressured hydraulics use power steering fluid to lubricate moving parts and aid in reducing corrosion for power steering gears and pumps.
In this blog, our South Coast Garage Land Rover experts will explain the importance of power steering fluid, how to determine the condition of the fluid and how to tell if your power steering fluid needs replacing.
Read on to find out more!
Introduction to Power Steering Fluid
The incorporation of power steering fluid in Land Rovers began with the introduction of the Range Rover. The Range Rover, initially launched in 1970, marked the brand’s venture into the luxury SUV market. To enhance the driving experience, especially in slow-moving cities, the Range Rover was equipped with power steering, a feature that significantly reduced the effort required for steering.
In the subsequent years, Land Rover extended the use of power steering to other models in its line-up. The Land Rover Defender adopted power steering technology in the late 1980s. This development aimed to improve both on-road and off-road handling, making the Defender more accessible and user-friendly for a broader range of drivers.
The advancement in power steering also paved the way for the development of the power steering fluid.
For the Defender in the 1980’s, mineral-based fluids were used. Synthetic-based fluids were utilised in the 1990s and today most modern Land Rover vehicles use fully synthetic power steering fluid.
Why Is Your Power Steering Fluid So Important?
To ensure your steering works optimally, your power steering fluid is vital. Your Land Rover needs the best quality, well-maintained, power steering fluid for the following reasons:
- Smoother Handling: The fluid in the power steering system acts as a lubricant for various parts like valves, pistons, hoses, and the power steering pump in your Land Rover. This lubrication ensures a seamless and effortless steering experience, enhancing the overall quality of your drive.
- Preserving Parts: The power steering fluid not only prevents wear and tear on components but also serves as a defence against corrosion. To maintain the system’s health, it’s essential to keep the fluid at the right level and free from contaminants such as dirt and debris.
- Enhanced System Durability: Regular checks and maintenance of the power steering fluid in your Land Rover at South Coast Garage can help identify potential issues early on. Resolving these problems quickly can prevent extensive damage and costly repairs in the future, contributing to a longer lifespan for your power steering system.
At South Coast Garage, we understand the importance of regular maintenance of your Land Rover Power Steering Fluid. Book a service or inspection today and make sure your power steering system is working as it should.
Symptoms of Low Power Steering Fluid
Common symptoms may appear if the power steering fluid is low or contaminated. Watch out for these signs in your Land Rover:
- Difficult Steering: When you turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or during parking, you might notice that you have to apply more force than usual.
- Unusual Sounds: Inadequate power steering fluid levels can lead to whining or groaning noises while steering, particularly at slower speeds.
- Inconsistent Steering Response: You might experience a rough, shaky, or less smooth steering feel than usual, affecting your ability to control the Land Rover effectively.
- Fluid Drips: Your Land Rover might exhibit signs of power steering fluid leakage if you observe puddles or stains beneath the vehicle.
- Dashboard Alert: The warning light on your dashboard will light up if the power steering fluid level is low in newer Land Rover models.
You should seek help from a professional if you notice any of these signs in your Land Rover. Our team at South Coast Garage are the experts when it comes to power steering systems. We help you by diagnosing and fixing any power steering issues and can replace or top up your power steering fluid. To ensure you get your vehicle back on the road working as it should, reach out to South Coast Garage today!
How To Check Your Power Steering Fluid The Right Way
At South Coast Garage, we always recommend consulting experts when it comes to replacing your power steering fluid. With our power steering fluid refresh, we tailor our services to your specific Land Rover model.
The steps below will guide you through our process when we check our customers’ Land Rover vehicles at South Coast Garage.
- After parking your Land Rover on a flat surface and switching off the engine, lift and secure the bonnet properly.
- Locate the power steering reservoir on the passenger side of your vehicle, with its position varying based on the model. Identify a cap marked “power steering” or “steering fluid,” noting that the colour may differ.
- Unscrew the power steering cap by turning it anticlockwise.
- Look for ‘minimum’ and ‘maximum’ markers on the reservoir.
- Ensure that the power steering fluid level is above the ‘minimum.’ If it’s low, the experienced technicians at South Coast Garage can add more fluid.
- Confirm the power steering fluid’s condition. If it appears cloudy, or dark or contains particles, schedule an appointment with our specialists for a fast resolution.
You can find out which power steering fluid your Land Rover uses by consulting your owner’s manual. We also offer a complete service, inspection, and repair to any Land Rover power steering system. Using only high-quality, Land Rover-recommended fluid during our replacement, your power steering will leave our workshop in peak condition, steering you clear of danger. Contact us today to book your appointment.
Land Rover Power Steering Fluid
Fresh and topped-up power steering fluid is essential in maintaining a healthy power steering system in your Land Rover. Not only does it allow for proper lubrication, but the fluid also protects the power steering system from wear and corrosion. When your valves, pumps, hoses, and pistons are all properly lubricated you reduce the chance of damage resulting in expensive repair bills in the future.
If you experience low or dirty power steering fluid then it must be dealt with as soon as possible. You may experience difficulty steering your Land Rover, it may become hard to steer out of the way of dangers on the road. It’s vital that you also follow Land Rover’s recommendations when you choose your power steering fluid.
At South Coast Garage, we recommend using specialist Land Rover technicians when it comes to the tricky, delicate task of replacing your power steering fluid. You can rely on our experience and know-how when it comes to power steering systems in Land Rover vehicles. Using only the freshest, high-quality power steering fluid carefully following manufacturer standards, we tailor our service to your specific model and model year.
For complete peace of mind and a routine power steering service, reach out to our friendly customer service team today at South Coast Garage!
