Maintenance
527
POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL
With the vehicle on level ground, check
the fluid level in the power steering reser-
voir periodically. The fluid should be
between MAX and MIN marks on the
side of the reservoir at the normal tem-
perature.
Before adding power steering fluid, thor-
oughly clean the area around the reser-
voir cap to prevent power steering fluid
contamination.
If the level is low, add fluid to the MAX
level.
✽✽
NOTICE
Grinding noise from the power steering
pump may be heard immediately after
the engine is started in extremely cold
conditions (below - 20°C). If the noise
stops during warm up, there is no
abnormal function in the system.
It is due to a power steering fluid char-
acteristic in extremely cold conditions.
Recommended Fluid
Use PSF-4 type fluid
Power steering hoses
It is suggested that you check the power
steering hose connections for fluid leak-
age at regular intervals. The power steer-
ing hoses should be replaced if there is
severe surface cracking, scuffing or worn
spots. Deterioration of the hose could
cause premature failure.
HHR5014
CAUTION
• To avoid damage to the power
steering pump, do not operate the
vehicle for prolonged periods
with a low power steering fluid
level.
• Never start the engine when the
reservoir tank is empty.
• When adding fluid, be careful that
dirt does not get into the tank.
• Too little fluid can result in
increased steering effort and/or
noise from the power steering
system.
• The use of the non-specified fluid
could reduce the effectiveness of
the power steering system and
cause damage to it.
