Steering Fluid Maintenance Made Easy at Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR

June 27th, 2025

Maintaining your Subaru's steering system is critical for keeping your ride smooth and responsive. Steering isn't just about turning the wheel; it involves several intricate systems working together, from the transmission to your brakes and even your tires' condition. It might seem like a given until you encounter a problem, like a stiff wheel or poor handling. This is where steering fluid maintenance plays a key role. Many drivers overlook it, but neglecting your steering fluid can lead to system contamination and long-term damage. With proper care, like regular flushing and filling, you can avoid unnecessary repairs and extend your Subaru's performance. At Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, we're here to make this process easy and stress-free for you.

Understanding Hydraulic Steering Systems

Your Subaru's hydraulic steering system plays a crucial role in giving you a responsive and comfortable drive. This system allows seamless communication between the steering wheel and the tires, thanks to hydraulic fluid. When you turn the wheel, the system pressurizes the fluid, delivering it to the appropriate side of the piston to turn the wheels. The fluid then returns to its original state as the wheel straightens. Over time, wear and tear introduce contaminants into the fluid, reducing its efficiency and possibly damaging the entire system. Additionally, hydraulic lines can loosen or crack, further impacting performance. Routine maintenance allows our technicians to check your system, address leaks, and catch potential issues early. While hydraulic systems don't require frequent servicing at every appointment, combining a check with an oil change or tire rotation is a good practice to avoid costly surprises.

When to Flush and Fill Your Steering Fluid

Every Subaru has its own maintenance schedule, but the general recommendation for a complete flush and fill is every 40,000 to 80,000 miles. If you're unsure, your owner's manual provides clear guidance for your specific model. However, if you notice signs like a stiff steering wheel or strange noises, it could be time for a steering fluid service, even if you haven't hit the mileage marker yet.
A quick way to check your steering fluid is by examining the dipstick. Wait for your Subaru to cool down, then remove and inspect it. If the steering fluid looks dark or charred instead of its usual red and clear appearance, it likely needs flushing. At Capitol Subaru, our service technicians can perform this maintenance to restore your fluid's clarity and performance.

Enhancing Your Fluid with Additives

For added protection, our team can incorporate an additive to your power steering fluid. This helps neutralize acidity, prevent leaks, and flush out debris from the system. It also cleans pressure valves, pumps, and gears, ensuring your steering system operates at its best. This service can be included during any maintenance appointment, so you don't have to wait for noticeable issues before taking action.

Care for Your Subaru at Capitol Subaru

At Capitol Subaru of Salem, we're dedicated to keeping your Subaru running smoothly for as long as possible. Regular maintenance, like steering fluid checks and flushes, is part of the care your vehicle deserves. Scheduling an appointment is simple; visit us at 920 Auto Group Avenue NE in Salem, OR, give us a call, or use our convenient online scheduler. Our certified technicians take pride in providing exceptional service while keeping you informed about your Subaru's needs. Stop by Capitol Subaru, where we always aim to do business Your Way, Everyday on the Parkway. Whether it's steering fluid maintenance or another service, we're here to keep your Subaru performing at its best.