Transmission fluid in the power steering?

Question

I put transmission fluid in my power steering what can I expect to happen and is it a costly mistake?

Answer 1

what year is your auto?  Some new auto's my not.  90's and older you are fine.  Some newer are synthetic oil check with dealer thay will help you.

Answer 2

It's OK to use it in the power steering. I have used it for years....nothing bad ever happened to it.

Answer 3

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Answer 4

Lindsey, Don't fret or stew just because you accidentally used automatic transmission fluid in your power steering reservoir. Many cars actually call for AT fluid in the power-steering reservoir. Toyota for instance actually designates automatic transmission fluid.

When asking questions on this site it's important to always include the year make and model of your car. You'll get better answers. Many cars are entirely different than others.

If you really want to know the type of oil that should be in your power-steering, E-mail & I'll fire back the correct answer

Answer 5

it will be ok. i used it before in the power steering.

Answer 6

Some systems use power steering. My Subie and Toyota do.

I had a Beemer that used it as well. Transmission fluid is basically hydraulic fluid, and the power steering is a hydraulic pump. It's not going to hurt it short term, it may even clean it up a bit.

Are you sure it doesn't take ATF? It should state what it needs on the cap.

If it needs regular fluid, suck as much out as possible with a bulb type baster, and refill with proper fluid. Run it a bit, then repeat the process teo more times. You should have most of the tranny fluid out.

Or, you could take it to a garage and have them do it for $100 or so.  

Answer 7

best thing like the guy's say  let us know ur model to get right answer

and no not all power steering fluid compatible w  ATF

some car use mineral fluid volvo bmw mercedes

here why u can call around

may cause leaking rack seal to leak over heating pump

Answer 8

Your power steering will work as it suppose to!  It is ok to use transmission fluid in the power steering.  Just don't put engine oil in it and you'll be just fine.  

Answer 9

atf is high grade hydraulic oil with lots of detergent,it is almost always interchangeable,only drawback is it's more expensive.