How long can one drive with Hydraulic fluid leak (1991 Mercedes Benz 560 SEL)
 

Hi

I do not know much about Mercedes Benz and truly much about mechanics of cars. My father-in-law owns a 1991 Mercedes Benz 560 SEL.

He noticed that the reservoir for the Hydraulic fluid on the right front (when looking from the hood) was empty. He bought a bottle of the fluid from the dealership and filled it up and noticed it was empty again in few days time. I did find out from the dealership that the likelihood is leak in suspension.
1. Is this likely to be the case? Is the car worth fixing it?
2. How can he drive with such a leak? He drives about 25 miles every day from home to work.

Thank you so much!

Raza

RE: How long can one drive with Hydraulic fluid leak (1991 Mercedes Benz 560 SEL)
 

PAS Power Assisted Steering leak?

Consequence of no oil is initially no steering assistance but in time the pump could seize and cause your auxillary drive belt on the engine to break.

need to determine where oil is leaking. May be simple. loose connection, possible a damaged / leaking hose which is easy to replace or could be the whole steering box = Expensive.

good luck.

Stuart

RE: How long can one drive with Hydraulic fluid leak (1991 Mercedes Benz 560 SEL)
 

Thank you Stuart for your reply. I truly hope it is a simple fix! I am now debating to take the car to either a gas station repair shop or mercedes service?

I am sure that both will find ways of ripping off people like me who do not know much about the car or knowing how to do simple repairs.

Raza