Hi everyone,

Just a quick question. How often does the Power Steering fluid need to be topped off? And also, what brand do i use to be within Ford spec? Im at 7000 mi or so and was curious. First new vehicle and I want to make it last. As always thanks in advance for any help.


Later,

Luis S

 

It uses Mercon ATF. As far as topping it off, unless you have a leak, you will probably never have to add any.

 

Kingfish51 is right on the money. Page 276 in your Owner’s Guide says MERCON AFT

 

Thanks for the reply guys. So Power Steering is basically maintainence free? How often should I check then just to be sure? What would indicate a problem for future reference. Thanks again.

Later,

Luis S

 

It's so easy to check in that you can see the level with just oprening the hood. I look every time I open the hood, to check oil or whatever. Just make it a habit.
I will say that on my last 4 trucks, which I have put 330k miles on that I have never had to add PS fluid.
Problems would be if you see PS fluid on the ground or steering is hard tp turn.

 

I see. Thanks for the info. I just checked the manual and it walks you through the steps on how to check. But giving what you and everyone esle said i wont worry unless I have a problem like you describe. Thanks !

Later,

Luis S

 

One thing I would recommend is to have the system flushed every other year or so. It will help the steering rack and the seals live longer. I've been doing this myself ever since I started owning vehicles with rack and pinion steering and find it goes a long way to help protect those expensive parts.

Just my 2 cents.

 

BG Products has a power steering flush kit to where if you get your power steering serviced with their stuff while your vehicle is still under it's factory warranty (I think they say at the 30K service), they'll warranty any parts in your power steering system for either 5 years/75K miles or 5 years/100K miles. I'll have to check and see to make sure though.

Edited to add: Just checked BG's website and I don't see any mention of this warranty...I'll have to check with our BG rep whenever he stops by the shop again.