When you’re looking for the best place to get an oil change, sometimes you need more than one service. Choose a place that also offers power steering service.
Every fluid helps keep your vehicle running and protected. When your power steering fluid is low, it could make turning more difficult.
Here’s how the best places to get an oil change also address your power steering fluid needs:
- Full Inspection: Your auto techs look for possible causes of leaks in your power steering system.
- Address Your Needs: If there are no leaks or faulty equipment, they check the condition of the fluid itself.
- Address the Issue: Whether it’s a top-off or a complete flush and fill, your oil change pros have your steering solution.
At Planet Oil Change & Car Wash, we recognize that engine longevity and steering precision go hand in hand. Find a location so your vehicle gets the quality service it deserves!
Power Steering Service at the Best Place to Get an Oil Change
There is a good reason to go to an oil change place that also checks and services your power steering fluid. Your safety and your vehicle depend on it.
Sadly, some drivers focus on their oil change while ignoring their power steering system. Here are three issues that can occur if you drive around with low or old power steering fluid:
- Pump Failure: Ignoring old fluid increases friction, which can burn out the power steering pump. If you hear a subtle whine, get it checked out right away.
- Abrasive Shrapnel: That old, degraded fluid might be filled with small metal shavings. This acts like sandpaper on your internal seals, causing damage to your steering rack.
- Dangers of Old Steering Fluid: Moisture and air bubbles trapped in old fluid ruin your car’s hydraulics. This can create a jerky wheel response, affecting your response time.
Here are the three ways the best oil change shops address your power steering system:
1. Your Total Vehicle Inspection
At the top-quality oil change place, your service comes with a free vehicle inspection.
During this inspection, the oil change pros pay close attention to your power steering system. They offer a full inspection of the hoses, the pump, and the rack-and-pinion system.
Here’s what this means for your vehicle: They know whether a top-off, a flush and fill, or necessary auto repairs are needed. It’s more than a service, it’s protection.
2. Power Steering Flush & Fill
Over time, your power steering fluid starts to break down due to heat and friction. It also tends to collect microscopic metal shavings from use.
If your power steering fluid is breaking down, a complete flush and fill is recommended. Here’s what happens when you get this necessary service:
- Purge the Sludge: Your oil change pros remove the old steering fluid that causes that groan when you turn the wheel.
- New Power Steering Fluid: This is pushed in while the old, sludgy fluid is being drained to prevent air from entering the steering rack.
- Conditioning the seals: New high-performance fluid contains conditioners that keep the rubber O-rings from becoming brittle and help prevent future failures.
By the time you drive out of the bay, your engine is protected, and your steering is silent, effortless, and flawless.
3. Topping Off Your Power Steering Fluid
Sometimes, your power steering fluid can run a little low even if the system is still relatively clean. When this happens, your steering can start to feel heavy.
If your fluid levels are just slightly below the max line, your technician tops it off with the exact specification required for your vehicle. This prevents you from wrestling with the wheel.
The same attention to detail is extended to other vital areas of your vehicle, including:
- The Radiator: Checking coolant levels to prevent overheating.
- The Serpentine Belt: Inspecting for cracks or wear that could lead to a system failure.
- Transmission Service: The techs ensure you enjoy smooth gear shifts by protecting your transmission.
By the time you leave the bay, every lifeblood in your vehicle has been inspected and secured.
Steer Into Planet Oil Change & Car Wash for Complete Service
By now, you know that maintaining your power steering fluid is as important as your motor oil. You’re ready to choose the best automotive services provider in Michigan and Ohio.
Choosing Planet Oil Change & Car Wash means partnering with an ally who understands your car’s engine and steering system. We’re ready to provide the precision your vehicle deserves.
Contact us or find the location near you to restore your vehicle’s peak performance!