How to Check the Power Steering Fluid in a Chevrolet Equinox
by Leonardo R. Grabkowski
The first-generation Chevrolet Equinox (2005 to 2009) did not have power steering fluid because the vehicle exclusively used electronic power steering, rather than hydraulic power steering. The second-generation Equinox (introduced in 2010) uses power steering fluid but only in the 3.0L V6 model; the 2.4L four-cylinder still uses electronic power steering. Chevrolet does not recommend a specific service interval for the Equinox's power steering fluid; instead, they recommend having the system inspected if the fluid level is low (which could indicate a leak).
Step 1
Turn the engine off and wait five minutes to allow the engine compartment to cool off.
Step 2
Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap. Grasp both sides of the plastic engine cover and pull it off. Replace the engine oil fill cap.
Step 3
Remove the cap from the power steering fluid reservoir at the rear part of the engine compartment on the passenger's side. Wipe the dipstick with a clean shop rag.
Step 4
Reinsert the power steering fluid dipstick. Tighten it completely then remove it again to inspect the fluid level. The level indicator should be about halfway between the "MIN" and "MAX" lines.
Step 5
Add power steering fluid in small increments if necessary. After each increment, inspect the dipstick indicator lever. Continue until the proper amount is indicated.
Step 6
Tighten the power steering cap. Remove the engine oil fill cap to replace the engine cover (push it down firmly to reattach it) then replace the fill cap.
References
Things You'll Need
- Shop rag
- Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid
Writer Bio
Leonardo R. Grabkowski has been writing professionally for more than four years. Grabkowski attended college in Oregon. He builds websites on the side and has a slight obsession with Drupal, Joomla and Wordpress.
