curvenut

Hi,

I have a 1996 Accord EX , and I think the power steering fluid had never been changed
I just check the fluid color / level throught the red cap, I noticed the color
is brown (lighter than chocolate).

Is that its normal color ?? Should I change it by bleeding ??

Thanks

curvenut

Ok got my answer, PS fluid should be RED
So mine is due for a flush and refill !

HonBeer

Automatic transmission fluid is red. Not power steering fluid. Brand new fluid is clear/off yellow color. But once it is in the power steering system the color will change to a light tan/brown color due to the heat. Which is normal. Cheers!

holmesnmanny

On my Toyota Camry the power steering fluid is ATF and it is red. This isn't the case with Hondas. They use a different type of fluid.

curvenut

@holmesnmanny, @HonBeer Thanks for your input,

HonBeer, from your statement , it means I do not have to change my PS fluid based on the color ?


Thanks !

TheMuffinMan

iTrader: (1)

It's not going to hurt to change it, you probably want to have two people to assist though since you do not want to run the pump dry. HonBeer's description of the color is correct, new should be near clear in color.

The easiest method of changing it is to suck/drain out the stuff in the reservoir then fill it up with new fluid, then with the front of the car raised up disconnect the return hose from the pump and direct it to a drain.

Turn the wheel from lock to lock which should suck in clean fluid from the reservoir and then dump fluid from the pump to the drain. Keep filling it up until you see clear fluid coming out from the pump then reconnect the return hose and do it a few more times to make sure there's no air in the system.