- info@autoservisstefanko.sk
- +421 908 254 061
- Pon - Pia (8:00 - 16:30), Sob - Ned (ZATVORENÉ)
The power steering system is one of the most neglected parts of a vehicle — most drivers never even think about maintaining it. Yet an oil change is quick, inexpensive, and can prevent a repair costing hundreds of euros. At Autoservis Štefanko Žilina, we get it done in a single morning.
Most drivers only notice the problem once steering becomes difficult. Yet the warning signs are simple — you just need to know what to look for.
Noise when turning the wheel slowly (typically while parking) is the most common sign of low or degraded power steering fluid.
If you need to apply more force than usual when turning, the fluid in the system can no longer maintain sufficient pressure.
Instead of smooth turning, you feel "jumps" — the power steering pump doesn't have enough quality fluid.
Fresh power steering fluid is clear (red, green, or yellow). If it's dark and smells burnt, it has lost its protective properties.
Fresh power steering fluid is clear (red, green, or yellow). If it's dark and smells burnt, it has lost its protective properties.
Even if there are no symptoms, manufacturers recommend a change every 3–5 years or 80,000–100,000 km. Prevention is always cheaper.
The whole process takes about an hour. You don't need to take time off — just book an appointment and wait with a coffee.
We check the level, colour and condition of the fluid. We drain the old fluid from the reservoir and as much as possible from the rest of the circuit — including the hoses and the working cylinder.
We flush the system with fresh fluid and start the engine. We then turn the steering wheel from lock to lock so the new fluid reaches the entire circuit.
We top up the fluid to the correct level, check all connections and hoses for leaks, and verify smooth steering operation. You leave with a fully functioning power steering system.
Old fluid loses its lubricating properties, metal particles enter the system, and pressure in the circuit can no longer keep up. The result? An expensive repair that could have been avoided.
Degraded fluid causes excessive friction and overheating in the pump. Replacing the pump costs €250–600 depending on the vehicle make — many times more than a preventive fluid change.
Metal particles in old fluid grind away at the internal steering surfaces. Replacing the entire steering rack is one of the most expensive jobs on the chassis.
Oxidised fluid dries out and damages rubber seals. Fluid starts leaking, which further worsens the condition of the whole system.
In extreme cases, the power steering can fail completely — the wheel "locks up," making driving dangerous, especially at low speeds and when parking.
The power steering is such a quiet companion — it just works, and nobody pays attention to it. Most people don't even think about the fluid until the steering wheel starts whining. Yet changing the fluid takes about an hour and costs a fraction of repairing a broken pump. I'd recommend not underestimating it — it only takes one call every 3–4 years.
Answers to the questions drivers ask us most often.
Follow us
© Copyright – Autoservis Štefanko