Volvo: Check or Add Power Steering Fluid
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Is your Volvo steering system noisy and hard to turn? Learn how to fix the problem by adding power steering fluid to your Volvo. If your Volvo doesn’t have a power steering reservoir, it has electronic power steering.
At a Glance
- Where: power steering reservoir on the passenger side of the engine
- When: check with the engine cold
- Correct level: between the MIN and MAX marks
- Fluid: the type in your owner’s manual; many Volvos use a synthetic fluid such as Pentosin CHF 11S
- No reservoir: your Volvo has electric power steering and needs no fluid
What you will need
- Volvo Power Steering Fluid
Procedure
- Pull the hood release under the dashboard.
- Go to the front of the car and press the hood latch release. Lift the hood and make sure it stays up on its own.
- Locate the power steering reservoir on the passenger side of the engine.
- Check the power steering level when the engine is cold. On the power steering reservoir side, you will see two lines and Max and Min markings. The power steering fluid level needs to be between these two lines. Remove the cap to measure the level if the power steering reservoir is not translucent. Add power steering fluid if the level is low.
- Remove the power steering cap by turning it counterclockwise.
- Add the recommended Volvo Power Steering Fluid to bring the level between the Min and Max mark. The recommended fluid type is listed in the owner’s manual.
Do not overfill the Volvo power steering fluid reservoir to the top. The level needs to be just below the MAX line.
If your Volvo power steering fluid is low, you will notice a groaning noise, which is most noticeable when you start the car. Low power steering fluid levels often cause this problem. This guide will teach you how to add power steering fluid to Volvo vehicles.
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This applies to :
- S60
- V70
- XC70
- XC90
- S40
- V50
- C30
- C70
- S80
- XC60
Symptoms
- The steering wheel is hard to turn.
- Whining noise
- Groaning noise
- Squealing noise when starting the engine
- Noise when turning the steering wheel
Signs Your Volvo Is Low on Power Steering Fluid
- A whine or groan that gets louder when you turn the wheel
- Steering that feels heavy, mostly at low speed or when parking
- A squeal or groan at full lock
- Reddish or amber fluid spots under the front of the car
If the Level Keeps Dropping
Power steering fluid does not get used up, so a low level means a leak. Check the hoses and clamps from the reservoir to the pump and the rack, the pump seals, and the rubber boots at each end of the steering rack. Fluid inside a boot points to a leaking rack.
Do not overfill. Too much fluid can push out of the cap when it warms up and drip onto hot parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What power steering fluid does Volvo use?
Use the fluid listed in your owner’s manual. Many Volvos use a synthetic fluid such as Pentosin CHF 11S, and mixing in regular ATF can harm the seals.
Should I check the fluid hot or cold?
Check it with the engine cold for the most consistent reading, against the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir.
Can I drive with low power steering fluid?
For a short distance, but the pump can be damaged if it runs low on fluid. Top it up and find the leak soon.
Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Volvo.
