Power steering fluid is an essential hydraulic fluid that helps your vehicle’s power steering system operate smoothly. But like many automotive fluids, people often wonder: Does power steering fluid expire? The short answer is yes, power steering fluid can degrade over time—both in the bottle and inside your vehicle—although it typically has a long shelf life when stored properly.
Shelf Life of Unopened Power Steering Fluid
Most unopened bottles of power steering fluid have a shelf life of around 3 to 5 years, sometimes longer if stored in optimal conditions. Factors that affect the fluid’s longevity in storage include:
- Temperature: Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Seal Integrity: An unopened, tightly sealed container prevents moisture and contaminants from degrading the fluid.
Manufacturers often include a production date or expiration date on the packaging. If not, it’s a good rule of thumb to replace any bottles older than 5 years, especially if the fluid shows signs of deterioration.
Can Opened Power Steering Fluid Expire?
Once you open a bottle of power steering fluid, its shelf life decreases significantly. Exposure to air and moisture can cause contamination or chemical breakdown. Ideally, you should use an opened container within 1 to 2 years, keeping the cap tightly sealed and storing it in a clean, dry place.
Signs that opened fluid has gone bad:
- Cloudy appearance
- Change in color (often darker than normal)
- Unusual smell
- Sediment or debris inside the container
If you notice any of these, it’s best not to use it.
How Long Does Power Steering Fluid Last Inside Your Car?
While the fluid in the bottle can last several years, power steering fluid inside your car will eventually break down due to:
- Heat cycles
- Moisture contamination
- Debris from system wear and tear
There isn’t always a strict schedule for changing power steering fluid, but many mechanics recommend a flush and replacement every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your vehicle and driving conditions.
Signs Your Power Steering Fluid Needs Replacing
If the power steering fluid inside your vehicle degrades, it can lead to system problems. Watch for:
- Difficulty steering or stiff steering wheel
- Whining or groaning noises when turning
- Dark or dirty fluid when you check the reservoir
- Leaking power steering fluid
- Burning smell from the fluid overheating
These symptoms indicate it’s time to inspect or replace the fluid.
What Happens If You Use Expired or Contaminated Power Steering Fluid?
Using old or contaminated fluid can lead to:
- Decreased performance of the power steering system
- Increased wear and tear on the power steering pump and other components
- Possible system failure if contaminants clog the system
To avoid costly repairs, always use fresh, clean fluid that matches your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.
How to Store Power Steering Fluid Properly
- Keep the bottle sealed tightly when not in use.
- Store in a cool, dry location, away from extreme temperatures.
- Avoid contamination by keeping the container clean and using a clean funnel during refills.
Final Thoughts
While power steering fluid doesn’t have a strict expiration date, it does degrade over time, both in storage and in your vehicle. For best results, check the fluid condition regularly and replace old, contaminated, or expired fluid as needed to keep your steering system working smoothly.
