Mixing ATF with Power Steering Fluid

[dsmith41]

In MO we have to get our vehicles inspected to register them. I just got done with my Ranger and the guy told me it failed because the P/S was low. So he topped it off and passed me. But he topped it off with P/S fluid instead of ATF like my manual calls for. I need to change it out anyway but should I make plans to do that sooner now? Is mixing them bad?

 

[901Memphis]

What vehicle is it?

 

[Darwin1138]

Exactly with what fluid did he top off the reservoir???

Many cheap/generic PS fluid is just rebottled ATF. I will be more concerned if they put ATF in a system that calls for special fluid.

 

[dparm]

Supposedly the non-syn PS fluids don't mix well with the synthetic ones. Pentosin plasters this warning in huge letters on their hydraulic fluids.

 

[dsmith41]

It's a 95 Ford Ranger.

 

[TrevorS]

If you were thinking of changing it, just change it now.

A bottle if Supertech Mercon V is just over $4. Get two and even with drain and fills you'll have replaced almost 100% of what was in there.

Regular Dex / Merc is even cheaper.

 

[Lolvoguy]

Originally Posted By: dsmith41
It's a 95 Ford Ranger.


don't bother changing the fluid. Fords of that era are VERY forgiving and can run both PS and ATF with no worries.

On my 03 Focus and 97 Escort, I regularly did fluid changes with ATF and never had a leak or moan from the system

 

[Boss302fan]

It will be fine...