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Everything You Didn't Want to Know About Power Steering Fluid Leaks

Most Toyota and Lexus vehicles have a power steering system that use a power steering pump to pressurize a fluid (similar to motor oil or transmission fluid). The fluid then travels through hoses and pipes to a steering gear, before being returned to the pump again. Our uniquely severe climate is very hard on these components–especially the rubber hoses and the seals in the pump and gear.

Eventually something will begin to leak fluid. When the leaking part is replaced, the system is refilled with clean fluid. The detergents in the new fluid then release all of the old residue and debris in the rest of the system. This can cause other parts to fail or leak. It is fairly common for Toyota and Lexus vehicles in hot climates to end up having every single part of the power steering system replaced by 150,000 to 200,000 miles.

As everyone at the Toy Shop owns vehicles that have had these problems, we are well aware of the expense of these repairs. We also realize that given these expenses, some owners may elect to do these repairs one at a time. We just want to ensure that our clients have as much information as possible so that they may make informed decisions about their vehicles. Thank your for your understanding and continued patronage.