Is Power Steering Fluid the same as ATF?

[brucemillar]

Friends

WIfe's X5 has sprung a leak in the power steering reservoir rubber pipe. Easy fix, I just need to cut the end of the pipe and fit a new clip (the old one ate through the rubber pipe). I have about 4 liters of ATF in my Garage. I notice that on some parts sites they mention that ATF can be used as PSF. Both are red fluids.

Would it be Okay to use ATF?

 

[clk320x]

From a quick google I would say yes

 

[DSM10000]

Without checking the owners manual I would advise caution.

MB use Central Hydraulic Fluid (CHF) as power steering fluid and not generic ATF, I certainly would not be topping it up on the basis of Google.

 

[grober]

I wouldn't------- or putting another way fancy a new steering rack?

 

[DSM10000]

From a quick google I would say yes.

What did you find on Google for you to suggest that this would be OK?

 

[clk320x]

What did you find on Google for you to suggest that this would be OK?

There was some information on google that some manufacturers use both interchangeably, but it really depends on each manufacturer?

 

[brucemillar]

Well the container I have is COMMA ATF suitable for POWER STEERING. A quick Google suggests that this is okay to use and will not cause any damage.

 

[OneForTheRoad]

euro car parts lists atf fluid for use as power steering fluid , for a bmw x5, if it was a merc id of said no .

 

[markjay]

On my old Vauxhall Omega, both the automatic transmission and the PAS used AFT hydraulic fluid, but they were of different spec.

You would have thought the PAS fluid would be the more forgiving one, after all its only hydraulic fluid, right? Well not quite, there was something about the seals in the PAS system not being compatible with the type of ATF used in the transmission.

So in short.... I would say make no assumptions, always check the manufacturer's specifications.

 

[alabbasi]

For the most part old older cars, unless it's a GM, power steering systems use ATF. Newer cars are different as you will see green stuff in newish MB's.

 

[Codger49]

Bruce, BMWs usually have the fluid to be used stamped or embossed on the power steering filler cap.

This BMW TIS implies ATF, but also states CHF is used as a total replacement in cold countries.

What I would do is dip the reservoir and see what colour the fluid is; red-ATF, green-CHF.

 

[DSM10000]

Bruce, BMWs usually have the fluid to be used stamped or embossed on the power steering filler cap.

This BMW TIS implies ATF, but also states CHF is used as a total replacement in cold countries.

What I would do is dip the reservoir and see what colour the fluid is; red-ATF, green-CHF.

But which ATF? Dexron II, III or another grade?

 

[Codger49]

See this thread:
Dextron 2 and 3 differences

I don't think its use in power steering systems is as critical as it is for auto transmissions. I would be happy to use III as a top up to II. Believe IV is not recommended for power steering systems though.

Guess, as ever, the safest method is to either check the car's handbook or consult the dealer's parts specialist.

 

[merc85]

Put the reg in this Bruce

Products : Comma Oil & Chemicals Ltd.

 

[Codger49]

Merc85, that's fun, has different fluids depending on whether the cap states ATF or CHF!

 

[merc85]

Merc85, that's fun, has different fluids depending on whether the cap states ATF or CHF!

lol id check the cap then in that instance

 

[brucemillar]

Folks

Many thanks for all the replies. A call to BMW caused more confusion than I could stand (they didn't seem to know). A search on Google yielded similar results. So then I went to some of the Car Spares sites where you enter your reg. That showed that you can use ATF or PSF so long as it is the same red do not mix green & red. A look at the reservoir lid in daylight reveals the letter ATF!!!

I bought Halfords own brand PSF that is also to be used as ATF in "Most" modern vehicles. My local friendly garage said if it meets Dextron III standards then it is fine? It does and it is now in there.

The price range is extensive, from around £6.00 per liter up to £20.00 per liter.