When turning the wheel, the car makes noise. I think i am either low on power steering fluid or maybe have a power steering pump problem. I can't find any leaks. I would check the fluid level, except I can't find the resevoir? Is there a diagram of the engine compartment. There is a reservoir next to the oil filter that looks to be it, but i can't tell. If it is low on the fluid, is there any special fluid I need to replace it with or will the autozone brand due? No flames please. Need help. btw. 02 s430 is the car.

 

Before condeming the power steering pump, I'd replace the fluid with "known" good fluid that matches (or exceeds) "Mercedes" specifications.

I usually recommend that most people use dealer fluids as it takes the guess work out of it. It may be a bit more expensive but at least you have the right stuff.

Here's a diagram of the location.

Hope this helps!

Cheers




[IMG]local://upfiles/5574/378B7325CBF944C78B97F7271CE5B4E7.jpg[/IMG]

 

you are probably low on fluid.....

 

Thanks guys. I think I am low on fluid, b/c there isn't any fluid on the small dip stick. Now that I know I am low on fluid, how much should I put in there? Hmm. Thanks for the replies.

 

there is supposed to be a level mark on a dipstick, start filling it up by small amounts and then check level with a dipstick.

 

What kind of power steering fluid does a 88 560SEL take??

 

Hi , jus to reply youre answer ure question use either Mercedes Benz Power steering fluid. or Use febi Bilstein 08972 (power steering fluid)... how much do u fill in ?

Basically around half a liter but do make sure fill in by stages before filling in the half liter.
Then do start and let the car warm up to the level where the dipstick mention max or min. or the dispstick mention on the temperature. If u have the mannuals for ure car would be much more accurate.

 

as mentioned, use Mercedes Spec power steering fluid. It makes the seals and pump last alot longer and not to mention, keeps it from making all types of weird noises.
Some people mentioned that you can use transmission fluid in there but I personally wouldn't do that since in most cases I've seen the life of the seals of the power steering system and steering gearbox severly decreased. The power steering pump new is really not too expensive, but do cost a decent chunk of change(W126) but that steering gearbox is a bugger when it goes so use the best fluid for the car (mercedes power steering fluid) to make all that stuff last as long as possible. Just a little info for anyone that neds it.

 

HELP!!! I have a 95 S 420 excellent shape. Never had a problem, but when it is cold the steering is very loose and makes a humming sound. After I drive it for awhile it goes away. How do I check the fluid and where do I get the right fluid???

 

powersteering fluid is same as automatic transmission fluid, any grade from dexron II up will do