How to Check Power Steering Fluid (and When to Change It)

Published: March 18, 2025 | By 907 Synthetics – Authorized AMSOIL Dealer in Alaska

Why Power Steering Fluid Matters – Especially in Alaska

Power steering makes driving effortless and safe, especially during Alaska’s long winters with icy roads and heavy snow. Over time, power steering fluid breaks down, gets contaminated, and loses its ability to protect the pump, hoses, and steering rack.

Neglecting it can lead to annoying pump whine, stiff steering, leaks, or even expensive pump failure. The good news? Checking and changing power steering fluid is straightforward and one of the smartest maintenance tasks you can do.

How to Check Power Steering Fluid – Step by Step

Checking your power steering fluid takes just a few minutes and should be done regularly — every time you check your oil or before long trips.

1. Locate the Reservoir
   It’s usually a small, clear plastic container with a black cap, often near the firewall or one of the front wheels. Many reservoirs have “MIN” and “MAX” marks on the outside.
2. Check the Level (Cold Engine)
   With the engine off and cold, the fluid should be between the MIN and MAX marks. Some vehicles have a dipstick on the cap.
3. Use the Dipstick (If Equipped)
   Remove the cap, wipe the dipstick clean with a rag, reinsert it fully, then remove it again to read the level. Pay attention to “Cold” vs “Hot” markings.
4. Top Off if Needed
   Use the correct type of fluid for your vehicle (check your owner’s manual). Never overfill.

When Should You Change Power Steering Fluid?

Many manufacturers recommend changing power steering fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or every 3–5 years. In Alaska’s harsh conditions — extreme cold, temperature swings, and lots of short trips — changing it more frequently is smart.

Change it immediately if you notice:

• Dark, dirty, or burnt-smelling fluid
• Whining or groaning from the power steering pump
• Stiff or jerky steering
• Fluid leaks under the vehicle

Old fluid accumulates wear particles, moisture, and sludge, which accelerates wear on expensive components.

Choose the Right Fluid: AMSOIL Synthetic Power Steering Fluid

Standard power steering fluid breaks down quickly under heat and cold. AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid is a superior choice because it:

• Provides excellent protection in extreme cold (critical for Alaska winters)
• Resists oxidation and thermal breakdown
• Reduces friction and pump noise
• Helps keep seals soft to prevent leaks
• Works in a wide range of vehicles (Ford, GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, European models, and more)

Easy Methods to Change Power Steering Fluid

1. The Simple “Poor Man’s” Flush (Recommended for Most People)

This method is clean, easy, and very effective:

1. Use a fluid extraction pump or turkey baster to remove old fluid from the reservoir.
2. Refill with fresh AMSOIL Synthetic Power Steering Fluid.
3. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times.
4. Repeat the process 3–4 times until the fluid runs clean.

2. Full System Flush

For maximum results, disconnect the return hose and flush the system with a helper. This removes more old fluid but is messier and more technical.

Pro Tip: AMSOIL’s Fluid Extraction Pump makes this job quick and clean.

Benefits You’ll Notice in Alaska

Drivers in Wasilla and across Alaska report quieter steering, smoother operation in freezing temperatures, and greater peace of mind knowing their steering system is protected when roads are icy.

Preventative maintenance now can save you from a $500–$1,200 power steering pump replacement later.

Shop AMSOIL Power Steering Fluid

Buy AMSOIL Synthetic Power Steering Fluid →

Need help choosing the right product for your vehicle? Contact us — we’re local AMSOIL experts serving all of Alaska.

907 Synthetics • Authorized AMSOIL Dealer • Wasilla, Alaska • Nationwide Shipping Available

Fuel System Maintenance Is Essential in Modern Engines

Published: March 12, 2025 | By 907 Synthetics – Authorized AMSOIL Dealer in Alaska

Why Modern Engines Need More Care Than Ever

It used to be easy to pop the hood on a Saturday afternoon and give your vehicle a tune-up. Engines were simple, accessible, and forgiving. Today’s vehicles are very different. Manufacturers have packed smaller, more efficient engines with complex computer controls, turbochargers, and advanced fuel injection systems to meet strict fuel economy and emissions standards.

In Alaska’s extreme temperatures, these modern engines face extra challenges — especially during long, cold winters. That’s why proactive fuel system maintenance is no longer optional — it’s essential for keeping your vehicle reliable, powerful, and efficient.

Port Fuel Injection vs. Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Older vehicles typically used port fuel injection, where fuel is sprayed onto the back of the intake valves before entering the combustion chamber. This helped keep valves relatively clean.

Modern vehicles increasingly use Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) (found in Ford EcoBoost, GM Ecotec, and many others). In GDI engines, fuel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber under extremely high pressure. This delivers better power, fuel economy, and lower emissions — but it creates new problems:

• Injectors sit in much hotter areas → faster carbon deposit buildup.
• Intake valves stay “dry” (no fuel washes over them) → heavy carbon accumulation from PCV oil vapors.
• Higher risk of injector fouling, rough idle, misfires, and lost power.

The Hidden Cost of Deposits in Alaska

In cold climates like Alaska, these issues get worse. Short trips, cold starts, and lower-quality winter fuel can accelerate deposit formation. Common symptoms include:

• Reduced fuel economy
• Loss of horsepower (sometimes 10–14% or more)
• Rough idle or hesitation
• Check engine light / knock sensor issues
• Higher emissions and potential expensive repairs

Deposits on injectors distort the fuel spray pattern. Deposits on intake valves restrict airflow. Deposits in the combustion chamber create hot spots that lead to engine knock.

The Simple Solution: High-Quality Fuel Additives

You don’t need to turn wrenches or pay for expensive professional cleaning to fight these problems. A premium fuel additive like AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver is one of the most effective tools available.

AMSOIL P.i. is a concentrated, professional-strength cleaner that:

• Cleans fuel injectors (restores up to 100% flow in GDI engines)
• Removes deposits from intake valves and combustion chambers
• Restores up to 14% horsepower in a single tank (based on independent testing)
• Improves fuel economy and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel
• Works in both port and direct-injection systems

Recommended Maintenance Schedule for Alaska Drivers

• Every 4,000 – 5,000 miles: Add one bottle of AMSOIL P.i. to a full tank of gasoline.
• Twice per year (before winter and before summer): Deep clean with P.i.
• Use Top Tier gasoline whenever possible.
• Pair with high-quality synthetic motor oil (AMSOIL Signature Series) to reduce oil vapor that contributes to intake valve deposits.

Real-World Benefits for Alaskan Vehicles

As an AMSOIL dealer based in Wasilla, Alaska, we’ve seen how well-maintained fuel systems make a huge difference in reliability during -30°F winters and long highway drives. Customers report smoother starts, better throttle response, and improved fuel mileage after treating their vehicles with AMSOIL P.i.

Don’t wait for performance problems to appear. Preventative maintenance now can save you hundreds or thousands in repairs later.

Shop AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver

Buy AMSOIL P.i. Now →

Questions about which product is right for your vehicle? Contact us — we’re happy to help Alaska drivers choose the best protection for their specific needs.

907 Synthetics • Authorized AMSOIL Dealer • Serving all of Alaska and nationwide shipping.