Can you drive with a leaking power steering fluid? - Blog

It's technically possible to drive with a leaking power steering fluid for a very short distance in emergencies, but it's highly inadvisable and potentially dangerous for several reasons:

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Control and safety

1. Loss of power steering assistance: As the fluid leaks, your power steering system loses pressure, making it increasingly difficult to turn the steering wheel. This can be especially dangerous at high speeds or during emergency maneuvers.

More components to repair

2. Increased wear and tear: With less fluid, the pump and other components in the power steering system work harder, leading to accelerated wear and tear. This can result in even more expensive repairs down the line.

Deeper damage

3. Internal damage: If the system has a low power steering fluid level, the power steering pump, supply and pressure hoses, and the rack motor can overheat and seize, causing significant internal damage that could require replacing the entire system. So, check your car's power steering fluid reservoir.

Environmental risks

4. Fire hazard: Power steering fluid is generally flammable; in some cases, a power steering leak can contaminate the ground under the car and pose a fire risk at that location. As power steering leaks, it'll also seep into the environment, posing environmental risks.

What to do

Therefore, it's always best to avoid driving as power steering fluid leaks. If you notice a leak, do the following:

Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible.

Check for signs of power steering fluid leaking.

Turn off the engine. 

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Quote:

viper_711

Originally Posted by

Thanks Tanveer - can you also guide me how to do this? is it possible as a DIY or do I need professional help? Where is this belt located?
I am stuck in Noida till Saturday and will have to take this up as soon as I'm back in B'lore.

1. Loosen the belt,
2. Take it off
But better will be to find any roadside mechanic and pay him 30-40rs.
Or you can ask the concorde guy to do the same if they are willing to come again.

But remember without the belt on alternator will also be off, so your battery won't be charging at all only discharging, so keep stereo etc.,

Such sudden leaks usually happen when you hit the underbody. In your case since the entire oil leaked I suspect something is busted.
I am wondering why could the Concorde guy detect the problem.

Fill 500ml oil and see if its leaking, start the car in a dry sport and observe. If its a big leak it will start leaking again.
If you don't see it leaking drive to the workshop.

Are you sure its power steering oil only. did the reservoir go empty?

DIY is possible if you are mechanically inclined. Its very easy1. Loosen the belt,2. Take it offBut better will be to find any roadside mechanic and pay him 30-40rs.Or you can ask the concorde guy to do the same if they are willing to come again.But remember without the belt on alternator will also be off, so your battery won't be charging at all only discharging, so keep stereo etc.,Such sudden leaks usually happen when you hit the underbody. In your case since the entire oil leaked I suspect something is busted.I am wondering why could the Concorde guy detect the problem.Fill 500ml oil and see if its leaking, start the car in a dry sport and observe. If its a big leak it will start leaking again.If you don't see it leaking drive to the workshop.Are you sure its power steering oil only. did the reservoir go empty?

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