How to Check the Power Steering Fluid in a Mercedes Benz
by Carl Pruit
Your Mercedes Benz uses a brand of power steering fluid known as Pentosin and needs to be filled occasionally due to the fluid wearing out or loosing its effectiveness. When this happens, you will notice the fluid level getting low and you will need to replace the fluid to bring it back up to the acceptable level. Your power steering fluid should be checked when you do an engine tune-up or approximately every 3 or 4 months.
How to Check the Power Steering Fluid in a Mercedes Benz
Step 1
Locate the power steering belt that runs from the central pulley to the power steering pump at the top of the engine on the driver's side of the Mercedes Benz.
Step 2
Find the cap on the top of the power steering pump that reads "Power steering fluid".
Step 3
Start the engine and warm it up. Let the engine idle for about 5 minutes and then shut it off.
Step 4
Remove the power steering cap from the pump by turning the cap and lifting it straight up.
Step 5
Find the plastic stem on the inside of the cap, and the words "hot" and "cold" on the stem.
Step 6
Read the fluid level by looking to see where the fluid line is in respect to the hot line.
Step 7
Determine if the fluid is low according to the reading, and add power steering fluid if necessary by pouring the fluid into the top of the spout until it is level with the hot mark.
References
Tips
- Use a dry cloth to turn the cap of the power steering pump if the cap is hot.
Things You'll Need
- Dry cloth
Warnings
- Avoid getting burned by not touching any hot engine parts while checking the power steering fluid.
Writer Bio
Carl Pruit has been a freelance writer since 2005, specializing in service journalism and travel. His work has appeared on various websites. Born and raised in California, Pruit attended Contra Costa Community College in San Pablo, Calif. and received an associate degree in the administration of justice.
