How to Maintain Power Steering Fluid Levels in a Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla has been a popular sedan on the American market for decades and Corolla owners of any Corolla vehicle can continue to enjoy their vehicles by performing basic at home maintenance. Checking power steering fluid and other fluid levels helps troubleshoot vehicle problems and prevent serious damage that results in the need for costly repairs.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Dextron-II or III ATF or power steering fluid approved for use in Toyota vehicles

1. • 1

     Check the level of your power steering fluid every 15,000 miles, at the same time that you check the fluid levels for transmission fluid, brake fluid and coolant in your Toyota Corolla. You can check the power steering fluid sooner if you suspect a leak or have trouble with the steering system, but should not have to add fluid sooner than 60,000 miles.

   • 2

     Make sure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool before you check fluid levels. Power steering fluid and other fluids read at different levels when warm instead of cool.

   • 3

     Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It is located under the hood of your Toyota Corolla on the passenger side next to the engine. The reservoir is connected to the power steering pump.

   • 4

     Remove the cap and use the dipstick to check the fluid level. For the most accurate reading, clean off the dipstick with a rag first, then re-insert and remove for the fresh reading.

   • 5

     Add automatic transmission fluid or power steering fluid approved for use in Toyota vehicles if the fluid is below the low level mark. Add fluid gradually to keep for over filling the reservoir.

   • 6

     Inspect the power steering pump, hoses and clamps in addition to the reservoir to check for any broken or worn parts that might result in a leak. Replace any necessary parts immediately to avoid damage to your engine.