All power steering fluids differ from each other, not only in color, but also in their characteristics: oil composition, density, ductility, mechanical properties and other hydraulic indicators.

Therefore, if you are worried about the long and stable operation of the hydraulic power steering of a car, you need to follow the operating rules, change the fluid in the power steering in time and fill in the best quality fluid there. For the operation of the power steering pump use two types of fluids- mineral or synthetic, in combination with additives that play a major role in the operation of the hydraulic booster.

It is quite difficult to determine the best fluid for power steering, because, according to the manufacturer's recommendation, it is better to pour the prescribed brand into a particular car. And since far from all drivers comply with this requirement, we will try to compile a list of the 15 best power steering fluids that caused the most confidence and collected a lot of positive feedback.

Notice that such liquids are poured into the power steering:

• conventional ATF, as in an automatic transmission;
• Dexron (II - VI), the same as ATP liquid, only a different set of additives;
• PSF (I-IV);
• MultiHF.

Therefore, the TOP of the best power steering fluids will consist of similar categories, respectively.

So, what is the best power steering fluid to choose from all those on the market?

Category	Place	Name	Price
Best Multi Hydraulic Fluid	1	Motul Multi HF	from 1100 r.
	2	Pentosin CHF 11S	from 800 rubles
	3	Comma PSF MVCHF	from 600 rubles
	4	RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid	from 500 r.
	5	LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil	from 1000 r.
Best Dextron	1	Motul DEXRON III	from 550 rubles
	2	Febi 32600 DEXRON VI	from 450 rubles
	3	Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus	from 220 rubles
	4	Castrol Transmax DEX-VI	from 600 rubles
	5	ENEOS Dexron ATF III	from. 400 r.
The best ATF for power steering	1	Mobil ATF 320 Premium	from 360 rubles
	2	Motul MultiATF	from 800 rubles
	3	Liqui Moly Top Tec ATF 1100	from 400 rubles
	4	Formula Shell Multi-Vehicle ATF	from 400 rubles
	5	ZIC ATF III	from 350 rubles

Note that PSF hydraulic fluids from automakers (VAG, Honda, Mitsubishs, Nissan, General Motors and others) do not participate, since each of them has its own original hydraulic booster oil. Let's compare and highlight only analogue liquids that are universal and suitable for most machines.

Best Multi HF

Hydraulic oil Motul Multi HF. Multifunctional and high-tech synthetic green fluid for hydraulic systems. It was developed specifically for the latest generation of cars that are equipped with such systems as: power steering, hydraulic shock absorbers, hydraulic opening roof, etc. Reduces system noise, especially at low temperatures. It has anti-wear, anti-corrosion and anti-foam properties.

It can be chosen as an alternative to the original PSF, as it is designed for hydraulic drives: power steering, shock absorbers, etc.

Has a long list of approvals:

• CHF 11 S, CHF 202 ;
• LDA, LDS;
• VW 521-46 (G002 000 / G004 000 M2);
• BMW 81.22.9.407.758;
• PORSCHE 000.043.203.33;
• MB 345.0;
• GM 1940 715/766/B 040 0070 (OPEL);
• FORD M2C204-A;
• VOLVO STD. 1273.36;
• MAN M3289 (3623/93);
• FENDT X902.011.622;
• Chrysler MS 11655;
• Peugeot H 50126;
• And many others.

Reviews

• - At my focus, there was a strong whistle from the power steering pump, after replacing it with that liquid, everything was removed as if by hand.
• - I drive a Chevrolet Aveo, the dextron liquid was filled, the pump squealed strongly, they recommended changing it, I chose this liquid, the steering wheel became a little tighter, but the squeal immediately disappeared.

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• Pros:
• Has approvals for almost all car brands;
• Can be mixed with similar oils;
• Designed to work in hydraulic pumps under heavy load.

• Minuses:
• Very high price (from 1000 rubles)

Pentosin CHF 11S. Dark green synthetic high quality hydraulic fluid used by BMW, Ford, Chrysler, GM, Porsche, Saab and Volvo. It can be poured not only into the hydraulic booster, but also into the air suspension, shock absorbers and other car systems that provide for the filling of such a liquid. Pentosin CHF 11S Central Hydraulic Fluid is suitable for use in vehicles under extreme conditions, as it has an excellent temperature-viscosity balance and can operate from -40°C to 130°C. A distinctive feature is not only a high price, but also a fairly high fluidity - viscosity indicators are about 6-18 mm² / s (at 100 and 40 degrees). For example, for its counterparts from other manufacturers according to the FEBI, SWAG, Ravenol standard, they are 7-35 mm² / s. A solid track record of approvals from leading automakers.

This PSF of a popular brand from the assembly line is used by German auto giants. Without fear for the power steering system, you can use it in any car, except for Japanese ones.

Tolerances:

• DIN 51 524T3
• Audi/VW TL 52 146.00
• Ford WSS-M2C204-A
• MAN M3289
• Bentley RH 5000
• ZF TE-ML 02K
• GM/Opel
• Chrysler
• Dodge

Reviews

• - A good liquid, no chips, but very aggressive to aluminum, plastic and seals.
• - After the replacement on my VOLVO S60, a smoother steering and quiet operation of the power steering immediately became noticeable. The howling sounds disappeared when the power steering was in extreme positions.
• - I decided to choose Pentosin, although our price is 900 rubles. per liter, but confidence in the car is more important ... On the street again -38, the flight is normal.
• - I live in Novosibirsk, in severe winters the steering wheel spins like KRAZ, I had to try many different fluids, arranged a frosty test, took 8 popular brands with ATF, Dexron, PSF and CHF fluids. So the mineral Dextron became like plasticine, PSF was better, but Pentosin turned out to be the most liquid.

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• Pros:
• An extremely inert fluid, it can be mixed with ATF, although it will only bring maximum benefit in its pure form.
• Sufficiently frost-resistant;
• It can be used both on VAZ cars and premium cars.
• Record holder for compatibility with different seals.

• Minuses:
• Does not eliminate pump noise if it was before replacement, but is only designed to maintain the previous state.
• Fairly high price of 800 rubles.

Comma PSF MVCHF. Semi-synthetic hydraulic fluid for power steering, central hydraulic systems and adjustable pneumohydraulic suspensions. It can also be used in some stability control systems, air conditioners, hydraulic systems for folding roofs. Compatible with Dexron, CHF11S and CHF202 specification fluids. Like all multi-fluids and some PSFs, it is green.

Suitable for some car models: Audi, Seat, VW, Skoda, BMW, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Mercedes, Mini, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Saab, Volvo, MAN which require this type of hydraulic fluid.

Conforms to the following specifications:

• VW/Audi G 002 000/TL52146
• BMW 81.22.9.407.758
• Opel B040.0070
• MB 345.00
• Porsche 000.043.203.33
• MAN 3623/93 CHF11S
• ISO 7308
• DIN 51 524T2

Reviews

• - Comma PSF is comparable to Mobil Synthetic ATF, it does not freeze in severe frost on the packaging they write up to -54, I don’t know, but -25 flows without problems.

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• Pros:
• It has approvals for almost all European cars;
• It behaves well in the cold;
• Relatively low price for a quality product (from 600 rubles per liter);
• Conforms to Dexron specification.

• Minuses:
• Unlike similar PSF of the same company or other analogues, this type of hydraulic fluid must not be mixed with other ATF and power steering fluids!

RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid- hydraulic fluid from Germany. Fully synthetic. Unlike most Multi or PSF fluids, it is the same color as ATF - red. It has a consistently high viscosity index and high oxidation stability. It is produced on the basis of hydrocracked base oil with the addition of polyalphaolefins with the addition of a special complex of additives and inhibitors. It is a special semi-synthetic fluid for power steering of modern cars. In addition to the hydraulic booster, it is used in all types of transmission (manual transmission, automatic transmission, gearbox and axles). According to the manufacturer's request, it has high thermal stability and is able to withstand low temperatures down to -40°C.

If it is not possible to buy original hydraulic fluid, this is a good choice for a Korean or Japanese car at a nice price.

Compliance with the requirements:

• Citroen/Peugeot 9735EJ for C-Crosser/9735EJ for PEUGEOT 4007
• Ford WSA-M2C195-A
• HONDA PSF-S
• Hyundai PSF-3
• KIA PSF III
• MAZDA PSF
• MITSUBISHI DIAMOON PSF-2M
• Subaru PS Fluid
• Toyota PSF-EH

Reviews

• - I changed it on my Hyundai Santa Fe, filled it instead of the original, because I see no reason to overpay twice. Everything is fine. The pump is not noisy.

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• Pros:
• Neutral with respect to sealing rubber materials and non-ferrous metals;
• It has a stable oil film that can protect parts in any extreme temperatures;
• Democratic price up to 500 rubles. per litre.

• Minuses:
• It has approvals mainly only from the Korean and Japanese automakers.

LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil- green hydraulic oil, is a fully synthetic fluid with a zinc-free additive package. It was developed in Germany and guarantees the flawless operation of such hydraulic systems as: power steering, hydropneumatic suspension, shock absorbers, support for an active engine damping system. It has a multi-purpose application, but not all major major European car manufacturers and does not have approvals from Japanese and Korean car factories.

Can also be used in systems designed for traditional ATF oils. The product achieves the greatest efficiency when it is not mixed with other liquids.

A good liquid, which you can not be afraid to pour into many European cars, is simply indispensable in regions with harsh winters, but the price tag makes it inaccessible for many.

Complies with tolerances:

• VW TL 52146 (G002 000/G004 000)
• BMW 81 22 9 407 758
• Fiat 9.55550-AG3
• Citroen LHM
• Ford WSSM2C 204-A
• Opel 1940 766
• MB 345.0
• ZF TE-ML 02K

Reviews

• - I live in the north, I drive a Cadillac SRX when there were problems with hydraulics at -40, I tried to fill in Zentralhydraulik-Oil, although there is no permit, but only Ford, I took a chance, I drive everything OK for the fourth winter.
• - I have a BMW, I used to fill in the original Pentosin CHF 11S, and since last winter I switched to this liquid, the steering wheel turns much easier than on ATF.
• - On his Opel I drove 27 thousand km in a year in a temperature range from -43 to + 42 ° C. The power steering does not buzz at startup, but in the summer it seemed that the liquid was rather liquid, since when the steering wheel was rotated in place, there was a feeling of friction of the shaft against the rubber.

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• Pros:
• Good viscosity characteristics in the widest temperature range;
• Versatility of application.

• Minuses:
• As for the price tag of 1000 rubles. and with good characteristics, has a small number of approvals and recommendations for use in different brands of cars.

Best Dexron Liquids

Semi-synthetic transmission fluid Motul DEXRON III is a product of technosynthesis. Red oil is intended for any systems where a DEXRON and MERCON fluid is required, namely: automatic transmissions, power steering, hydrostatic transmission. Motul DEXRON III flows easily in extreme cold and has a stable oil film even at high temperatures. This gear oil can be used where DEXRON II D, DEXRON II E and DEXRON III fluids are recommended.

Dextron 3 from Motul competes with the original from GM, and even surpasses it.

Conforms to standards:

• GENERAL MOTORS DEXRON III G
• FORD MERCON
• MB 236.5
• ALLISON C-4 – CATERPILLAR TO-2

Price from 550 rubles.

Reviews

• - Replaced on my Mazda CX-7 now the steering wheel can be turned literally with one finger.

read all

• Pros:
• The ability to cope with its task in a wide range of temperatures;
• Applicability in power steering of several classes Dextron.

• Minuses:
• Not seen.

Febi 32600 DEXRON VI for the most demanding automatic transmissions and steering columns with power steering, providing for the filling of transmission fluid class Dexron 6. Also recommended for replacement in mechanisms requiring oil DEXRON II and DEXRON III. Manufactured (and bottled) in Germany from high quality base oils and the latest generation of additives. Of all the power steering fluids available, ATF Dexron has the most suitable viscosity for power steering applications as an alternative to the dedicated PSF fluid.

Febi 32600 is the best analogue of the original fluid in both automatic transmissions and power steering of German automakers.

Has a number of the latest approvals:

• DEXRON VI
• VOITH H55.6335.3X
• Mercedes MB 236.41
• Opel 1940 184
• Vauxhall 93165414
• BMW 81 22 9 400 275 (and others)

Price from 450 r.

Reviews

• - I took it for my Opel Mokka, there are no complaints or any changes for the worse. Good oil for a reasonable price.
• - I changed the fluid in the BMW E46 gur, immediately took Pentosin, but after a week the steering wheel began to turn hard, changed it again but on Febi 32600, it has been on it for more than a year, everything is fine.

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• Pros:
• May be substituted for lower grade Dextron fluid;
• It has a good degree of viscosity for universal ATF in a box and power steering.

• Minuses:
• Tolerances only from American and European auto giants.

Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus is a universal all-weather gear oil. Designed for use in automatic transmissions, rotation converters, power steering and hydraulic clutches. Like all liquids, Dexron and Mercon are red in color. Carefully selected additives and synthetic components provide the best frictional properties at the moment of gear shifting, excellent low-temperature characteristics, high antioxidant and chemical stability throughout the entire service life. It has good anti-foaming and air-displacing properties. The manufacturer claims that the transmission fluid is chemically neutral to any sealing materials, but tests have shown that it causes corrosion of copper alloy parts. Made in Germany.

The product has approvals:

• ALLISON C4/TES 389
• CATERPILLAR TO-2
• FORD MERCON V
• FORD M2C138-CJ/M2C166-H
• GM DEXRON III H/G/F
• MB 236.1
• PSF applications
• VOITH G.607
• ZF-TE-ML 09/11/14

Price from 220 rubles.

Reviews

• - I pour Mannol Automatic Plus into my Volga, it withstands frosts of minus 30, there are no complaints about sounds or difficulties in turning the steering wheel, the operation of the hydraulic booster on this fluid is quiet.
• - I have been using MANNOL ATF Dexron III in power steering for two years now, there are no problems.

read all

• Pros:
• Low dependence of viscosity on operating temperature;
• Low price.

• Minuses:
• Aggressive to copper alloys.

Castrol DEXRON VI- red transmission fluid for automatic transmissions. Low-viscosity gear oil designed to work in modern automatic transmissions with maximum fuel efficiency. Manufactured in Germany from high quality base oils with a balanced additive package. It has Ford (Mercon LV) and GM (Dexron VI) approvals and exceeds the Japanese JASO 1A standard.

If it is not possible to buy the original Dexron ATF for a Japanese or Korean car, then Castrol Dexron 6 is a worthy replacement.

Specification:

• Toyota T, T II, ​​T III, T IV, WS
• Nissan Matic D, J, S
• Mitsubishi SP II, IIM, III, PA, J3, SP IV
• Mazda ATF M-III, M-V, JWS 3317, FZ
• Subaru F6, Red 1
• Daihatsu AMMIX ATF D-III Multi, D3-SP
• Suzuki AT Oil 5D06, 2384K, JWS 3314, JWS 3317
• Hyundai/Kia SP III, SP IV
• Honda/Acura DW 1/Z 1

Price From 600 rub.

Reviews

• - They write on my Aveo that Dextron 6 needs to be poured into the power steering, I took it in the Castrol Transmax DEX-VI store, it seems like only for automatic transmission, they said it’s good for the hydra, as it was regulated by pricing policy, so that not the cheapest but also expensive money it's a pity. There is very little information and feedback on this liquid, but I have no complaints, the steering wheel turns without sounds and difficulties.

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• Pros:
• An additive package that provides good protection against corrosion of copper alloys;
• Conforms to many specifications of the majority of world automakers.

• Minuses:
• There is no information on the use in hydraulic transmissions and power steering.

Transmission oil ENEOS Dexron ATF III can be used in Step-tronic, Tip-tronic, automatic transmission and power steering systems. High thermal-oxidative stability is able to ensure the purity of the transmission for more than 50 thousand kilometers. Red liquid ENEOS Dexron III, reminiscent of raspberry-cherry syrup, contains special antifoam additives with good air-displacing properties. Conforms to the latest requirements of GM Dexron manufacturers. It is more often found on sale in 4-liter cans, but liter cans are also found. The manufacturer may be Korea or Japan. Frost resistance at the level of -46 ° С.

If you choose oil for an automatic transmission, then ENEOS ATF Dexron III could be in the top three, but as an analogue for power steering, it only closes the top five fluids.

The list of tolerances and specifications is small:

• DEXRON III;
• G34088;
• Allison C-3, C-4;
• Caterpillar: TO-2.

Price from 400 r. for a can of 0.94 liters.

Reviews

• - I have been using it for 3 years, I changed both in the box and in the power steering for Mitsubishi Lancer X, Mazda Familia, excellent oil, does not lose its properties.
• - I took Daewoo Espero for replacement in automatic transmission, after partial filling I have been driving for more than six months, I don’t see any problems.
• - I poured Santa Fe into the box, as for me Mobile is better, it seems to be losing its properties faster, but this is only relative to automatic transmission, I have not tried how it behaves in power steering.

read all

• Pros:
• One of the best lubricating properties;
• It tolerates very low temperatures well.

• Minuses:
• Aggressive to copper alloy parts.

The best ATF fluids for power steering

Liquid Mobil ATF 320 Premium has a mineral composition. Place of application - automatic transmission and power steering, which require oils of the Dexron III level. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Miscible with red Dextron 3 grade ATP fluids. Compatible with all common seal materials used in transmissions.

Mobile ATF 320 will not only be an excellent choice as an analogue for pouring into an automatic box, but also a good option, in terms of its behavior and characteristics, in the power steering system.

Specifications:

• ATF Dexron III
• GM Dexron III
• ZF TE-ML 04D
• Ford Mercon M931220

The price starts from 360 r.

Power steering makes driving much easier. But power steering, like any other car system, requires maintenance. For example, power steering fluid does not always maintain a constant level. And in order to add fluid to the hydraulic booster, you need to know what kind of oil can be poured there.

First of all, you should find out what kind of oil the manufacturer of your car recommends. Well, in case there is no such oil, it would be nice to have an idea of ​​\u200b\u200bhow it can be replaced. Most motorists distinguish power steering fluid by color. To assess how true the separation of oils on this basis is, I suggest looking back. The first automatic transmissions used ordinary mineral motor oil, which was tinted red so that the source of the leak could be immediately identified by the color of the oil puddle.

The composition of the oil for power steering

Power steering fluid is an oil that has certain properties that give it various kinds of additives. Despite the fact that more than 90% of its composition falls on the base, which, like other oils, can be mineral or synthetic. Its qualities are so strongly modified by additives that without them it will not be able to ensure the normal operation of the hydraulic booster. The following additives are included in any power steering fluid:

• Antifriction.
• viscosity stabilizers. They are needed so that the oil does not become too thick at low temperatures or excessively thin at high temperatures.
• Defoamer. Foam is formed when oil is mixed with air. And since air differs from liquid in that it can be compressed, foamed oil transfers the pressure created by the pump to the hydraulic cylinder piston much worse. As soon as the oil foams, the force created by the power steering will decrease so much that it will be tantamount to its partial failure. This additive impairs the ability of the substrate to retain air.
• corrosion inhibitor.
• base antioxidant.
• Coloring substances.

During the operation of this unit, the hydraulic booster fluid performs the following functions: transferring the working pressure from the pump to the hydraulic cylinder piston, heat removal, and lubrication of rubbing parts. Protection of system parts against corrosion.

Interchangeability

Power steering oil (labeled PSF oil) of Japanese and American production can be mixed with each other if they have the same type of base. Mineral with mineral, and synthetic with synthetic, etc. Contrary to the common misconception among motorists, mineral oils do not react with synthetic oils. But sometimes when they are mixed, there are cases of excessive foaming of the mixture. The main difference between synthetics and mineral water for power steering is their different effects on rubber parts. Synthetics behave more aggressively towards rubber. Therefore, if the power steering is intended for the use of synthetics in it, then mineral water can be poured into it.

Which power steering fluid base is better

Taking into account the above, one conclusion can be drawn - the car owner has no choice in which oil (synthetics or mineral water) to pour into the power steering. This choice is made for him by the auto manufacturer.

The difference between PSF and ATF oils

Oils for power steering (PSF) and for automatic machines (ATF) differ only in the presence of additives against slippage and friction wear in the latter. Therefore, if the level in the power steering reservoir is insufficient and there is no PSF fluid suitable for your car, the best option would be to top up the automatic transmission oil having the same base as recommended for your power steering.

DEXRON and its fields of application

The history of fluids with this name began in the year 68 of the last century, when the American concern General Motors mastered the production of an unprecedented product - gear oil for automatic gearboxes of their cars. The company's marketers named it Dexron. Somewhat later, this name was registered as a trademark for transmission fluid specifications for automatic transmissions. Under this brand, GM and other manufacturers of automatic transmission fluids to this day produce gear oils for "automatic machines", and now not only for them. And so that you don’t think that any Dextron can be poured into a hydraulic booster, here is a list of fluids produced under this brand today:

When is a hydraulic oil change necessary?

Most auto manufacturers assure their customers that the fluid is poured into the power steering for the entire life of the car and there is no need to periodically replace it. Therefore, it must be changed only in two cases: after the elimination of the consequences of a pump failure or after water has entered it, for example, when overcoming water obstacles ford. The emulsion under the cover of the power steering reservoir will tell you about water entering the system. And in both cases, be sure to rinse the filter in the tank. It is better to do this with white spirit or a similar liquid.

In fact, it is better to change the power steering fluid every 90 thousand km. or 5 years of operation.

The fluids used in the hydraulic booster can be divided according to several criteria:

• Colour;
• Compound;
• Variety.

Color classification

It is wrong to be guided only by color gradation when choosing oil, although this practice is widespread among car owners. It is also often indicated which color of the liquid can be mixed and which should not.

Mixing is contraindicated in liquids by composition and not by color, and since now both mineral water and synthetics can be represented in any color, this information should be treated very carefully.

Red ATF gear oil, usually synthetic, the Dexron brand from General Motors is considered the reference, but there are products from other manufacturers such as Revenol, Motul, Shell, Zic, etc.


The yellow oil produced by Daimler and under its license is used in Mercedes-Benz hydraulic boosters. It is synthetic and mineral.

Green oil. For the most part, multifunctional and universal fluids, the composition can be both synthetic and mineral. Used in hydraulic boosters, suspension and other systems that operate on liquids. Do not mix with other colors, unless the manufacturer claims full compatibility, for example Comma PSF MVCHF is compatible with some types of Dexron.

Liquid composition

According to the composition of the power steering fluid, it can be divided into mineral, semi-synthetic and synthetic. The chemical composition determines the basic set of functions of the oil:

• Viscosity characteristics;
• Lubricating properties;
• Protection of details from corrosion;
• Anti-foaming;
• Thermal and hydraulic properties.

Synthetics and mineral water cannot be mixed with each other, since the types of additives in them have fundamental differences.

Synthetics

These are high-tech fluids, the production of which uses the most modern developments and additives. Oil fractions for synthetics are purified by hydrocracking. Polyesters, polyhydric alcohols and additive packages give them outstanding characteristics: wide operating temperature range, stable oil film, long service life.


The main reason why synthetic-based hydraulic fluid cannot be poured into power steering designed for mineral ones is its aggressive effect on rubber products, of which there are many in the hydraulic booster. Where synthetics are used, rubber has a completely different composition and is made on a silicone basis.

Semi-synthetics

A mixture of synthetic and mineral oils, thanks to which the latter receive significant performance improvements: foam reduction, fluidity, heat dissipation.


Semi-synthetic fluids include such well-known fluids as: Zic ATF Dex 3, Comma PSF MVCHF, Motul Dexron III and others.

mineral water

Mineral-based oils contain petroleum fractions (85-98%), the rest is additives that improve the performance of the hydraulic fluid.

They are used in hydraulic boosters containing seals and parts based on ordinary rubber, since the mineral component is neutral and not harmful to rubber products, unlike synthetics.


Mineral fluids for power steering are the most inexpensive, but they also have a short service life. Mobil ATF 320 Premium is considered a good mineral water, Dexron oils up to and including the IID marking were also mineral.

Various types of oils

Dexron- a separate class of ATF fluids from General Motors, produced since 1968. Dexron is a trademark, manufactured both by GM itself and by other companies under license.

ATF(Automatic Transmission Fluid) - oils for automatic transmissions, often used by Japanese automakers and power steering.

PSF(Power Steering Fluid) - literally translated as power steering fluid.

Multi HF- special, universal fluids for power steering, having approvals from most automotive manufacturers. For example, CHF fluid, produced by the German company Pentosin (pentosin), has received approvals from BMW, Ford, Chrysler, GM, Porsche, Saab and Volvo, Dodge, Chrysler.

Can oils be mixed?

Mixing is acceptable, but the manufacturer's recommendations must be followed. Most often, the packaging indicates with which brands and classes of oils this or that power steering fluid can be mixed.

Do not mix synthetics and mineral water, as well as different colors, unless specifically directed to do so. If there is nowhere to go, and you have to pour what is at hand, replace this mixture with the recommended one as soon as possible.

Is it possible to fill engine oil in the power steering

Motor - definitely not, transmission - with reservations. Let's take a closer look at why.

To understand whether other oils, such as engine or transmission oils, can be poured into the power steering, you need to know what functions it performs.


The fluid in the power steering must cope with the following tasks:

• Lubrication of all hydraulic booster units;
• Protection against corrosion and wear of parts;
• Transfer of pressures;
• Anti-foaming;
• System cooling.

The above characteristics are achieved by adding various additives, the presence and combination of which endows the power steering oil with the necessary qualities.

As you understand, the tasks of engine oil are somewhat different, so it is highly recommended not to fill it in the power steering.

Regarding transmission oil, everything is not so simple, the Japanese often use the same ATF fluid for automatic transmission and power steering. Europeans insist on using special PSF (Power Steering Fluid) oils.

What liquid to pour into the power steering

Based on this, the answer to the question “what kind of oil to pour into the power steering” is obvious - recommended by the manufacturer of your car. Often the information is indicated on the expansion tank or cap. If there is no technical documentation, call the authorized center and check.

In any case, experiments with steering are unacceptable. Not only your safety, but also those around you depends on the serviceability of the power steering.

car model	Recommended Fluid
Audi 80, 100 (audi 80, 100)	VAG G 004 000 M2
Audi A6 C5 (audi a6 c5)	Mannol 004000, Pentosin CHF 11S
Audi a4 (audi a4)	VAG G 004 000M2
Audi a6 c6 (audi a6 c6)	VAG G 004 000M2
BMW e34 (BMW e34)	CHF 11.S
BMW e39 (BMW E39)	ATF Dextron 3
BMW e46 (BMW E46)	Dexron III, Mobil 320, LIQUI MOLY ATF 110
BMW e60 (BMW E60)	Pentosin chf 11s
BMW x5 e53 (BMW x5 e53)	ATF BMW 81 22 9 400 272, Castrol Dex III, Pentosin CHF 11S
Vaz 2110
Vaz 2112	Pentosin Hydraulik Fluid (CHF,11S-tl, VW52137)
Volvo s40 (volvo s40)	Volvo 30741424
Volvo xc90 (volvo xc90)	VOLVO 30741424
Gas (valdai, sable, 31105, 3110, 66)
Gazelle business	Mobil ATF 320, Castrol-3, Liqui moly ATF, DEXTRON III, CASTROL Transmax Dex III Multivehicle, ZIC ATF III, ZIC dexron 3 ATF, ELF matic 3
Gazelle Next	Shell Spirax S4 ATF HDX, Dexron III
Geely MK (Geely MK)
Geely Emgrand	ATF DEXRON III, Shell Spirax S4 ATF X, Shell Spirax S4 ATF HDX
Dodge Stratus (dodge stratus)	ATF+4, Mitsubishi DiaQueen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Daewoo gentra (daewoo gentra)	Dexron-IID
Daewoo matiz (daewoo matiz)	Dexron II, Dexron III
Daewoo Nexia (daewoo nexia)	Dexron II, Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1200
Zaz chance (zaz chance)	LiquiMoly Top Tec ATF 1100, ATF Dexron III
Zil 130	T22, T30, Dexron II
Zil goby	AU (MG-22A), Dexron III
Kamaz 4308	TU 38.1011282-89, Dexron III, Dexron II, GIPOL-RS
Kia Karens (Kia Carens)	Hyundai Ultra PSF-3
Kia rio 3 (Kia rio 3)	PSF-3, PSF-4
Kia Sorento (Kia Sorento)	Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Kia spectrum (Kia Spectra)	Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Kia sportage (Kia Sportage)	Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Kia cerate (Kia Cerato)	Hyundai Ultra PSF-III, PSF-4
Chrysler PT Cruiser	Mopar ATF 4+ (5013457AA)
Chrysler Sebring	Mopar ATF+4
Lada largus	Mobil ATF 52475
Lada priora (lada priora)	Pentosin Hydraulik Fluid CHF 11S-TL VW52137, Mannol CHF
Land Rover Freelander 2 (Land Rover Freelander 2)	LR003401 pas fluid
Lifan smiley (lifan smiley)	Dexron III
Lifan solano (lifan solano)	Dexron II, Dexron III
Lifan X60 (lifan x60)	Dexron III
Maz	MARK R (Oil MG-22-V)
Mazda 3	Mazda M-3 ATF, Dexron III
Mazda 6 (mazda 6 GG)	Mazda ATF M-V, Dexron III
Mazda cx7 (Mazda cx7)	Motul Dexron III, Mobil ATF320, Idemitsu PSF
Man 9 (Man)	MAN 339Z1
Mercedes w124 (mercedes w124)	Dexron III Febi 08972
Mercedes w164 (mercedes w164)	A000 989 88 03
Mercedes w210 (mercedes w210)	A0009898803, Febi 08972, Fuchs Titan PSF
Mercedes w211 (mercedes w211)	A001 989 24 03
Mercedes actros (mercedes actros)	Pentosin CHF 11S
Mercedes atego (mercedes atego)	Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1100, MB 236.3
Mercedes ML (mercedes ml)	A00098988031, Dexron IID, MB 236.3, Motul Multi ATF
Mercedes sprinter (mercedes sprinter)	Dexron III
Mitsubishi outlander (Mitsubishi outlander)	Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Mitsubishi Galant (Mitsubishi Galant)	Mitsubishi Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320, Motul DEXRON III
Mitsubishi Lancer 9, 10 (Mitsubishi Lancer)	Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320, Dexron III
Mitsubishi Montero Sport (Mitsubishi Montero Sport)	Dexron III
Mitsubishi Pajero (Mitsubishi Pajero)	Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Mitsubishi Pajero 4 (Mitsubishi Pajero 4)	Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (Mitsubishi Pajero Sport)	Dia Queen PSF, Mobil ATF 320
Mtz 82	in summer M10G2, M10V2, in winter M8G2, M8V2
Nissan Avenir (Nissan Avenir)	Dexron II, Dexron III, Dex III, Castrol Transmax Dex III Multivehicle
Nissan hell (nissan ad)	NISSAN KE909-99931 "PSF
Nissan Almera (Nissan Almera)	Dexron III
Nissan Murano	KE909-99931PSF
Nissan Primera	ATF320 Dextron III
Nissan Teana J31 (Nissan Teana J31)	Nissan PSF KLF50-00001, Dexron III, Dexron VI
Nissan Cefiro (Nissan Cefiro)	Dexron II, Dexron III
Nissan Pathfinder (Nissan Pathfinder)	KE909-99931PSF
Opel Antara (Opel Antara)	GM Dexron VI
Opel astra H (opel astra H) EGUR	OPEL PSF 19 40 715, SWAG 99906161, FEBI-06161
Opel astra J (opel astra J)	Dexron VI, General Motors 93165414
Opel Vectra A (opel vectra A)	Dexron VI
Opel Vectra B (opel vectra B)	GM 1940771, Dexron II, Dexron III
Opel mokka (opel mokka)	ATF DEXRON VI Opel 19 40 184
Peugeot 206	Total Fluide AT42, Total Fluide LDS
Peugeot 306	Total Fluide DA, Total Fluide LDS
Peugeot 307	Total Fluide DA
Peugeot 308	Total Fluide DA
Peugeot 406	Total Fluide AT42, GM DEXRON-III
Peugeot 408	Total FLUIDE AT42, PENTOSIN CHF11S, Total FLUIDE DA
Peugeot partner	Total Fluide AT42, Total Fluide DA
Ravon Gentra (Ravon Gentra)	Dexron 2D
Renault Duster	ELF ELFMATIC G3, ELF RENAULTMATIC D3, Mobil ATF 32
Renault Laguna (renault laguna)	ELF RENAULT MATIC D2, Mobil ATF 220, Total FLUIDE DA
Renault logan (renault logan)	Elf Renaultmatic D3, Elf Matic G3
Renault Sandero	ELF RENAULTMATIC D3
Renault symbol (renault simbol)	ELF RENAULT MATIC D2
Citroen Berlingo (Citroen Berlingo)	TOTAL FLUIDE ATX, TOTAL FLUIDE LDS
Citroen C4 (Citroen C4)	Total Fluide DA, TOTAL FLUIDE LDS, Total Fluide AT42
Scania	ATF Dexron II
SsangYong Aktion New (SsangYong New Actyon)	ATF Dexron II, Total Fluide DA, Shell LHM-S
SsangYong Kyron (SsangYong Kyron)	Total Fluide DA, Shell LHM-S
Subaru Impreza	Dexron III
Subaru Forester	ATF DEXTRON IIE, III, PSF Fluid Subaru K0515-YA000
Suzuki Grand Vitara (Suzuki Grand Vitara)	Mobil ATF 320, Pentosin CHF 11S, Suzuki ATF 3317
Suzuki Liana (Suzuki Liana)	Dexron II, Dexron III, CASTROL ATF DEX II multivehicle, RYMCO, Liqui Moly Top Tec ATF 1100
Tata (truck)	Dexron II, Dexron III
Toyota Avensis (Toyota Avensis)	08886-01206
Toyota carina (toyota carina)	Dexron II, Dexron III
Toyota Corolla (Toyota Hiace)	Dexron II, Dexron III
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 120 (Toyota Land Cruiser 120)	08886-01115, PSF NEW-W, Dexron III
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 150 (Toyota Land Cruiser 150)	08886-80506
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 200 (Toyota Land Cruiser 200)	PSF NEW-W
Toyota Hayes (toyota hiace)	Toyota ATF DEXTRON III
Toyota Chaser	Dexron III
Uaz loaf	Dexron II, Dexron III
UAZ patriot, hunter	Mobil ATF 220
Fiat albea (fiat albea)	DEXRON III, ENEOS ATF-III, Tutela Gi/E
Fiat Doblo (Fiat Doblo)	Spirax S4 ATF HDX, Spirax S4 ATF X
Fiat Ducato (Fiat Ducato)	TUTELA GI/A ATF DEXRON 2D LEV SAE10W
Volkswagen Vento (Volkswagen Vento)	VW G002000, Dexron III
Volkswagen Golf 3 (Volkswagen Golf 3)	G002000 Febi 6162
Volkswagen Golf 4 (Volkswagen Golf 4)	G002000 Febi 6162
Volkswagen Passat B3 (Volkswagen passat B3)	G002000, VAG G004000M2, Febi 6162
Volkswagen Passat B5 (Volkswagen passat B5)	VAG G004000M2
Volkswagen transporter T4, T5 (Volkswagen Transporter)	VAG G 004 000 M2 Power Steering Fluid G004, Febi 06161
Volkswagen Tuareg	VAG G 004 000
Ford Mondeo 3 (ford mondeo 3)	FORD ESP-M2C-166-H
Ford Mondeo 4 (ford mondeo 4)	WSA-M2C195-A
Ford transit (ford transit)	WSA-M2C195-A
Ford Fiesta (Ford Fiesta)	Mercon V
Ford focus 1 (ford focus 1)	Ford WSA-M2C195-A, Mercon LV Automatic, FORD C-ML5, Ravenol PSF, Castrol Transmax Dex III, Dexron III
Ford focus 2 (ford focus 2)	WSS-M2C204-A2, WSA-M2C195-A
Ford focus 3 (ford focus 3)	Ford WSA-M2C195-A, Ravenol Hydraulik PSF Fluid
Ford fusion (ford fusion)	Ford DP-PS, Mobil ATF 320, ATF Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1100
Hyundai accent (Hyundai Accent)	RAVENOL PSF Power Steering Fluid, DEXRON III
Hyundai Getz (Hyundai Getz)	ATF SHC
Hyundai Matrix	PSF-4
Hyundai SantaFe (Hyundai SantaFe)	Hyundai PSF-3, PSF-4
Hyundai Solaris (Hyundai Solaris)	PSF-3, Dexron III, Dexron VI
Hyundai Sonata	PSF-3
Hyundai Tucson / Tussan (Hyundai Tucson)	PSF-4
Honda accord 7 (honda accord 7)	PSF-S
Honda Odyssey (honda odyssey)	Honda PSF, PSF-S
Honda HRV (Honda HR-V)	Honda PSF-S
Chery amulet (chery amulet)	BP Autran DX III
Chery bonus (chery bonus)	Dexron III, DP-PS, Mobil ATF 220
Chery very (chery very)	Dexron II, Dexron III, Totachi ATF Multi-Vehicle
Chery indis (chery indis)	Dexron II, Dexron III
Chery tiggo (chery tiggo)	Dexron III, Top Tec ATF 1200, ATF III HC
Chevrolet Aveo (chevrolet aveo)	DEXTRON III, Eneos ATF III
Chevrolet Captiva (Chevrolet Captiva)	Power Steering Fluid Cold Climate, Transmax Dex III Multivehicle, ATF Dex II Multivehicle
Chevrolet cobalt (Chevrolet Cobalt)	DEXRON VI
Chevrolet Cruze (chevtolet cruze)	Pentosin CHF202, CHF11S, CHF7.1, Dexron 6 GM
Chevrolet Lacetti (Chevrolet Lacetti)	DEXRON III, DEXRON VI
Chevrolet Niva (chevtolet niva)	Pentosin Hydraulic Fluid CHF11S VW52137
Chevrolet Epica (chevrolet Epica)	GM Dexron 6 #-1940184, Dexron III, Dexron VI
Skoda Octavia Tour	VAG 00 4000 M2 Febi 06162
Skoda Fabia (skoda fabia)	Power Steering Fluid G004
The data in the table is collected from publicly available sources.

How much oil in power steering

As a rule, 1 liter of fluid is enough to replace in a passenger car. For trucks, this value can reach 4 liters. The volume may slightly change up or down, but it is worth focusing on these figures.

How to check the level

To control the fluid level in the power steering, an expansion tank is provided. It is usually labeled with a MIN and MAX value. Depending on the brand of the car, the inscriptions may change, but the essence does not change - the oil level should be between these values.

How to top up

The topping up process itself is simple - you need to unscrew the cap of the power steering expansion tank and add so much liquid that it is between the MIN and MAX marks.

The main problem when adding oil to the power steering is its choice. It is good if the replacement has not yet been made, and the system contains liquid from the manufacturer's factory. In this case, it is enough to check the technical documentation, take the recommended oil and add to the required amount.

If you don’t know what is poured into the system, we recommend that you immediately replace it, because in any case you will have to buy a canister of liquid for topping up.

What fluid to fill in Dexron III ATF Multi HF power steering? This question worries many beginners, as well as quite experienced drivers! The thing is that, as such, it is very difficult to find specialized fluids for power steering on the automotive market, therefore, on the advice of forums or acquaintances, they pour into the power steering fluid reservoir:

• Dexron (II - VI), the same as ATP liquid, only a different set of additives;
• PSF (I-IV);
• conventional ATF, as in an automatic transmission;
• MultiHF.

In the people, oils for the power steering system are distinguished by color. However, the real differences are not in color, but in the composition of oils, their viscosity, type of base, additives. Oils of the same color can be completely different and not even mix. To say that if red oil is poured in, then another red oil can be added is completely wrong.

Power Steering Fluid Color and Specification Chart

In order to better understand how power steering fluids differ from each other, I offer you the following table:

I would also like to note that, in addition to specialized fluids, they are poured into the power steering: Therefore, when compiling our rating, this factor was also taken into account!

What is the difference between Dexron III and ATF

In fact, the properties of Dexron III and ATF are almost the same. But for our winters it is better to use 3. It tans a little less in the cold.

You can replace Dextron 2 with Dextron3, but not vice versa! Automatic transmission is not the part of the car that tolerates it!

Rating of fluids for power steering 2018 - 2019 in tables

Automatic transmission oils (ATF) when poured into the power steering have the same functions as those for power steering fluids, the function of increasing the static friction of the clutches (depending on the material of the clutches), the function of reducing the wear of the clutches.

Rating of ATF fluids for GUR 2018 - 2019	1	Formula Shell Multi-Vehicle ATF	from 360 rubles
	2	Motul MultiATF	from 800 rubles
	3	ZIC ATF III	from 400 rubles
	4	Mobil ATF 320 Premium	from 400 rubles
	5	Liqui Moly Top Tec ATF 1100	from 350 rubles

Mobil ATF 320 Premium fluid has a mineral composition. Place of application - automatic transmission and power steering, which require oils of the Dexron III level. The product is designed for freezing temperatures of 30-35 degrees below zero. Miscible with red Dextron 3 grade ATP fluids. Compatible with all common seal materials used in transmissions.

The best power steering fluids (PSF)

If you intend to pour PSF fluid into the power steering, then you will need to consider the following: the fluid acts as a working fluid that transfers pressure from the pump to the piston, lubricating function, anti-corrosion function, heat transfer to cool the system.

Place	Name/ Price
1	RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid	from 1100 r.
2	Pentosin CHF 11S	from 800 rubles
3	Motul Multi HF	from 600 rubles
4	Comma PSF MVCHF	from 500 r.
5	LIQUI MOLY Zentralhydraulik-Oil	from 1000 r

RAVENOL Hydraulik PSF Fluid is a hydraulic fluid from Germany. Fully synthetic. Unlike most Multi or PSF fluids, it is the same color as ATF - red. It has a consistently high viscosity index and high oxidation stability. It is produced on the basis of hydrocracked base oil with the addition of polyalphaolefins with the addition of a special complex of additives and inhibitors. It is a special semi-synthetic fluid for power steering of modern cars. In addition to the hydraulic booster, it is used in all types of transmission (manual transmission, automatic transmission, gearbox and axles). According to the manufacturer's request, it has high thermal stability and is able to withstand low temperatures down to -40°C.

The best power steering fluids Dextron

The Dexron family was originally developed for use as hydraulic oils in automatic transmissions (automatic transmissions). Therefore, sometimes these oils are called transmission oils, which causes confusion, since transmission oils used to mean thick oils of the GL-5, GL-4, TAD-17, TAP-15 brands for gearboxes and rear axles with hypoid gears. Hydraulic oils are much thinner than gear oils. It is better to call them ATPs. ATF stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid (literally - Fluid for automatic transmissions - that is, automatic transmissions)

1	Mannol Dexron III Automatic Plus	from 550 rubles
2	ENEOS Dexron ATF III	from 450 rubles
3	Castrol Transmax DEX-VI	from 220 rubles
4	Motul DEXRON III	from 600 rubles
5	Febi 32600 DEXRON VI	from. 400 r.

Semi-synthetic transmission fluid Motul DEXRON III is a product of technosynthesis. Red oil is intended for any systems where a DEXRON and MERCON fluid is required, namely: automatic transmissions, power steering, hydrostatic transmission. Motul DEXRON III flows easily in extreme cold and has a stable oil film even at high temperatures. This gear oil can be used where DEXRON II D, DEXRON II E and DEXRON III fluids are recommended.

Which is better for power steering: mineral oils or synthetics

Long-standing disputes about which is better - synthetics or mineral water for the power steering system are not appropriate. The fact is that in the power steering, as nowhere else, there are a lot of rubber parts. Synthetic oils have a worse effect on the resource of rubber parts based on natural rubbers (almost all types of rubbers), due to their chemical aggressiveness. In order to fill synthetic oils into the power steering system, its rubber parts must be designed for synthetic oils and have a special composition.

Rare cars use synthetic oils for power steering! But synthetic oils are often used in automatic transmissions. Pour only mineral water into the power steering system, unless synthetic oil is specifically indicated in the instructions!

Oil difference table for power steering PSF and ATF

	Oils for power steering (PSF):	Automatic transmission oils (ATF):
Functions of hydraulic fluid	1) the liquid acts as a working fluid that transfers pressure from the pump to the piston 2) lubricating function 3) anti-corrosion function 4) heat transfer to cool the system	1) the same functions as for power steering fluids 2) the function of increasing the static friction of the clutches (depends on the material of the clutches) 3) clutch wear reduction function
	1) friction reducing additives (metal-metal, metal-rubber, metal-fluoroplastic) 2) viscosity stabilizers 3) anti-corrosion additives 4) acidity stabilizers 5) tinting additives 6) defoamers 7) additives that protect rubber parts (depending on the type of rubber compounds)	1) the same additives as for power steering oils 2) additives against slippage and wear of automatic transmission clutches corresponding to the specific clutch material. Different clutch materials require different additives. From here came different types of automatic transmission fluids (ATF Dexron-II, ATF Dexron-III, ATF-Type T-IV, and others)

Video: How to choose a power steering fluid

You can, of course, buy a dozen cans from different manufacturers, pour them into ten identical cars and see which of them the power steering will die first. Or at least where the pump will buzz or leaks will appear, where the force on the steering wheel will increase ... But we do not have ten identical cars. And the method itself belongs to the methods of “scientific-parallel poke”. Which means it doesn't work for us. What to do?

Go to the lab! There they will tell us what requirements are placed on power steering fluids, how they affect performance, and how you can check the compliance of fluids with the requirements.

Now let's solve the question with the subjects. We'll take them right away 11. A lot? Yes, a lot. But their choice is really great, and comparing only three or four of them is simply pointless.

Liquids were not chosen randomly. We classified them into four groups. The first is automatic transmission oils (ATF), which are often poured into the power steering.

The second is directly power steering fluids, the third is liquids “from the manufacturer”, and the fourth is liquids from well-known packaging companies. Let's see who is where.

In the first group (ATF) we have Dexron VI from Mobil, Dexron III from Mannol and Dexron II from TNK. Here we will even compare not so much manufacturers as the possibility of using Dexron as a power steering fluid.

The second group (namely power steering fluids) includes Pentosin CHF 11S, StepUp and Glow PSF products. The first liquid should become the undoubted leader: Pentosin is a very serious brand, it is used, for example, by BMW. True, and very expensive. The second is the most common, and the third is the products of the Russian enterprise VMPAUTO. By the way, only she and PentosinCHF 11S are packed in a metal can, all the rest are in plastic.

In the third group, we have products manufactured under the brands of automakers. These are Toyota, Volkswagen and Hyundai fluids. Of course, we know that automakers themselves do not produce any oils and liquids, but do they recommend something under their own brand? Let's see what exactly.

And, finally, in the fourth group we have popular packaging companies. These are Febi and Swag. Such liquids are very common on sale, and here, too, no one knows what is poured into these bottles. And we will also try to find out.

A bit of theory

I'm sorry, but before freezing, rubbing and twisting, we have to spend at least a little time on boring theory.

We will not conduct a whole range of tests. It is very long and, frankly, very expensive. And most importantly, it is impractical, because most of us are primarily interested in only the most important indicators that most significantly affect the operation of the hydraulic booster. Here we will talk about them.

First parameter- oil viscosity at 100 degrees. In general, viscosity is one of the most important parameters of the oil. It is clear that at low temperatures, the oil thickens, and its viscosity increases; when heated, the opposite situation occurs. And if the viscosity is too low, the oil film between the rubbing elements will collapse. In this case, this is equivalent to the fact that the mechanism will work without lubrication at all.

The average temperature of the oil in the power steering is 80 degrees. Above it rises very rarely, only if you sit in the heat and stubbornly turn the steering wheel in place until it stops. The viscosity of an “ideal” oil should be the same at one hundred degrees and at minus forty. Unfortunately, there is nothing perfect in the world, and there is no such oil either. Although manufacturers are striving for this. Viscosity stability over a wide temperature range is one of the necessary conditions for good anti-wear properties of the oil.

The second important indicator- pour point. Well, everything is simple here: if the oil becomes solid, the pump cannot pump it through the system. Moreover, he himself will try very hard to do this, which will greatly reduce his resource. Of course, during warm-up, the oil in the amplifier will also warm up, but a cold start with frozen oil is very harmful to the system. In addition to the rapid wear of the pump, it is also dangerous for too high pressure and the appearance of leaks.

Third- cleanliness class. In other words, the value of the content of small impurities in the oil. Of course, the fewer impurities, the better: they work like an abrasive, so it’s better if they don’t exist at all. We will not evaluate this parameter directly either, it is more important for us to find out how oil protects rubbing parts from wear. And we will definitely do this test.

fourth- water content. By itself, this liquid is not hygroscopic, and the system is, in general, closed. But the parameter itself is important. But not for us. Same as the next one - foam holding capacity. If the power steering pump “grabbed” air, this is a question more for the pump, and not for the oil.

Sixth indicator- flash point. I will say right away: we did not check it: there is no need for this. And I don’t remember anything about cases of car fires from power steering fluid.

Next parameter- compatibility with rubber products. And this is not what some hussars thought. The thing is that rubber seals and other parts of the system should not “tan” much under the influence of the liquid, and even more so - decrease in size. We cannot check this: the test takes too long. And it will not come out yet to check the viscosity stability during the service life, here you also need to spend two or three years. Although in the laboratory ultrasound is used to evaluate this parameter. It can be used to simulate the “aging” of a liquid.

For us, the most important test will be the study of anti-wear properties on a friction machine. And, of course, measuring the viscosity and behavior of the liquid at low temperatures. Let's start with the rheometer.

About curves

A rheometer measures the viscosity of an oil at different temperatures. The test is long and seemingly boring, but we did it.

Let's try to explain very roughly the principle of operation of the rheometer. Oil is applied to a rotating disk and its viscosity is measured at different temperatures. The corresponding graphs are obtained at the output. That, in fact, is all. Let's see what happened.

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The first graph shows us the linear dependence of viscosity on temperature. As you can see, in the range of approximately 70 to 100 degrees, all the lines matched. That is, in the operating range, the viscosity of all oils is approximately the same. But here at a negative temperature discrepancies begin. And the lower the temperature, the greater the difference between the liquids.

Here is the second graph, here we have approximated the temperature range of interest to us.

Here, ATF from TNK, StepUp and Dexron III products from Mannol immediately drop out of the race. In general, the huge backlog of Dexrons II and III is understandable: these are not power steering fluids, the requirements for them are different, and strictly speaking, it is not worth pouring them into the power steering. But StepUp surprised: like, a well-known manufacturer, but he does things like that ... By the way, to find out what kind of things, let's look at the logarithmic graph.

The maximum kinematic viscosity of the oil for the power steering pump, from the point of view of durability, is about 800 mm2 / s. We have dynamic viscosity on the graph, so we need to focus on approximately 900 mPa * s. Here we see that the three previous liquids fit into the norm only up to -15. If temperatures are lower in your area in winter, they should not be flooded.

Dexron VI from Mobil is also not very suitable for the role of power steering oil, it is not suitable for working in power steering already at about -22. And only up to -30 do Hyundai and Toyota fluids do their job and, oddly enough, Pentosin CHF 11S, which (looking ahead) in other tests really looked good.

The clear leaders are liquids Volkswagen, Swag, Febi and the domestic Glow PSF.

Of course, the schedule is correct. But we want to see clearly what happens to liquids at low temperatures. To do this, let's freeze them, and then we'll see if at least one liquid retains the ability to flow at a temperature of -42.

Oh frost...

Here our experience does not look so scientific, but at least indicative. We open the freezer and take out all the flasks in turn and immediately tilt them to about 45 degrees. And we'll see if something flows there or not.

As expected, almost everything was frozen. Only Volkswagen (very little), Febi, Pentosin CHF 11S and - with a huge margin - Glow PSF from VMPAUTO were noticeable by eye. It is surprising that Pentosin CHF 11S, which was among the confident middle peasants, but not the leaders, got into this series.

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Now, after two tests, let's sum up the intermediate result. Obviously, you should not pour Dexron III and Dexron II into the power steering: they are not suitable for this. Unless in a warm climate, if the temperature does not fall below -10, in extreme cases - 15 degrees. Surprisingly, you should not buy StepUp fluid, which behaved even worse than Dexron III in low temperature behavior.

Undoubtedly, you can trust what dealers fill under the brand name of the automaker and the expensive Pentosin CHF 11S.

Well, Swag, Febi and Glow PSF are still confidently holding the lead. But ahead is the most important test: we will check what best saves system parts from wear. And we will do it on a friction machine.

Three, three, three...

The four-ball friction machine (TBI) works simply. We put three metal balls in the holder, fill it with oil and put it under the fourth ball, which will put pressure on them with a force of 40 kgf, while rotating at a frequency of 1,450 rpm. The process will take exactly 60 minutes, after which we will remove the balls and measure the wear spot resulting from friction.

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The smaller it is, the less will be the wear of parts. These very small, almost invisible spots are measured using a special microscope with a scale. And then they can be viewed on a large microscope.

Well, let's rub the balls?

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Here's what we got.

The best results went to Pentosin CHF 11S and… Hyundai! Glow PSF, ATF from Mobil and TNK, StepUp and Volkswagen fluids are located with a minimum margin. But the Toyota liquid showed not too high a result and lost a lot in our eyes. One of the leaders of the “frosty” tests, Swag and Febi, showed themselves the worst of all, and the third Dexron does not look much better against their background.

Now we have enough data to build a rating table.

Let's discard the obvious outsiders who showed the worst results in previous tests. First, let's give up everything that freezes up to 30 degrees: such temperatures are almost everywhere. Except perhaps in the very south - there the requirements can be reduced. And we are phasing out all ATFs and StepUp products. We put Volkswagen, Swag, Febi and Glow PSF in the first place.

There are no outsiders in the cold test: at -42, almost everyone froze, and we did not receive any specific numbers. But let's note those who have retained their fluidity. These are Volkswagen, Febi, Pentosin CHF 11S and Glow PSF. According to the results of two tests, Volkswagen, Febi and Glow PSF are ahead.

And finally, check in the friction machine. For Febi - just a moment of shame: the diameter of the wear scar turned out to be 0.54 mm, while the average value of all the others (except Swag) did not exceed 0.45 mm. Among the best are Volkswagen and Glow PSF. Let's pick a champion.

Who has won?

First, let's compare the price. We compare the prices for which VAG PowerSteering G 004 000 and Glow PSF were purchased. The first cost us 885 rubles, the second - 643 rubles. But Volkswagen has one more significant drawback.

Of course, this respected German concern has nothing to do with power steering fluid. What is actually poured into the bottle, we did not find out. It’s a pity that this product’s counterfeit protection is not the best: it’s easy to order such a plastic bottle, and you can fill it with anything you like. As a result, the search for the original fluid can turn into a test of nerves.

It is not entirely clear whether this oil can be added to the car if this is required due to a decrease in level. Theoretically - it is possible, but there is no supporting information.

Glow PSF is produced in Russia by VMPAUTO. The packaging is beyond praise: a metal canister with a typographical application, not a paper label. This is hard to fake. And it is unlikely that anyone will have a desire to fake an inexpensive (albeit very high-quality) liquid. In addition, the manufacturer claims that this oil is compatible with any other.

An interesting “trick” is the ability of the liquid to glow in ultraviolet light, which can help when searching for leaks in the system.

Summing up all of the above, we will give the victory to Glow PSF. It is much cheaper, in terms of characteristics and comparison in tests in laboratory conditions - one of the best, well protected from fakes, and it can be safely used “for topping up”. Seems like a well-deserved win.

Before you buy oil, do you compare options by tests and reviews?