When To Check Power Steering Fluid; How To Check Power Steering Fluid - Chevrolet Malibu 2010 Owner's Manual

When to Check Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is used in all vehicles with
V6 engines. Vehicles with the 4-cylinder engine
have electric power steering and do not use power
steering fluid.
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering
fluid unless a leak is suspected in the system, or
an unusual noise is heard. A fluid loss in this system
could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected
and repaired.

How to Check Power Steering Fluid

To check the power steering fluid, do the following:
1. Turn the key off and let the engine compartment
cool down.
2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.
3. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a
clean rag.
4. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
5. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on
the dipstick.
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If your vehicle has the 3.5L V6 engine, the fluid level
should be between the ADD and HOT marks when the
engine is cold, and at the HOT mark when the engine
is hot. If the fluid is at the ADD mark when the engine
is cold or hot, power steering fluid should be added.
If your vehicle has the 3.6L V6 engine, the fluid level
should be between the MIN (Minimum) and MAX
(Maximum) marks when the engine is cold, and at the
MAX mark when the engine is hot. If the fluid is at the
MIN mark when the engine is cold or hot, power steering
fluid should be added.
The fluid level should be within the crosshatch area on
the dipstick.
If the fluid is at or below the ADD or MIN mark on
the dipstick, add just enough fluid to bring the level
within the crosshatch area.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 7-10.
Always use the proper fluid.
Notice: Use of the incorrect fluid may damage the
vehicle and the damages may not be covered by
the vehicle's warranty. Always use the correct fluid
listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
on page 7-10.