Power steering, how to add fluid?

GILLEIJA08

MEMBER
2012 FORD FOCUS
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
119,000 MILES

I know that this car doesn’t have a reservoir for the power steering. It’s leaking though, and I was wondering if there was any way to add it into the system anyway. I know it’s an electric power assist, I just need it to hold some more for a little longer, is there any way to add some?

Friday, September 22nd, 2023 AT 1:43 PM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,055 POSTS

Hi,

Are you sure it is power steering fluid? Most vehicles with electric power steering (EPS) do not have a traditional power steering fluid reservoir as you mentioned or use hydraulic fluid like those with hydraulic power steering systems. Instead, EPS systems use an electric motor to assist with steering, and there is no fluid to be added or maintained.

Where are you seeing the leak? Are you having problems with the steering assist? I remember a technical service bulletin (TSB) instructing software updates for the power steering control module (PSCM) if stiffness is a symptom.

Let me know.

Joe

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Friday, September 22nd, 2023 AT 2:49 PM

GILLEIJA08

MEMBER
3 POSTS

It was light red.

Images (Click to make bigger)

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Friday, September 22nd, 2023 AT 2:56 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,055 POSTS

Hi,

In the picture, you are pointing at the axle seal. That is likely transmission fluid. Do me a favor and check the ATF level to see if it is low. Note that a small amount of fluid will appear large.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Friday, September 22nd, 2023 AT 3:20 PM