Power Steering Leak
1996 Lexus ES 300 6 cyl Front Automatic 148000 miles
Hi
I slowly noticed a small spot on my driveway I guess has been
slowly enlarging to about 4" in diameter over the last 3 months. I
bought the car 3 months ago (Oct 20, 2008).
The power steering
fluid resivoir is down about 1/8th of an inch.
I felt the slightly reddish oily substance on the driveway and decided the small leak was directly underneath the power steering fluid resivoir on the undercarriage and driveway.
I want to use a "Stop Leak" power steering fluid product, but read
that the seals expand when you use it, and that's how it stops (or
slows) the leak.
Will I "really" hurt my car if I use this kind of product?
I'm on disability and can't afford a serious ($) repair.
Thanks for your help!
I strongly advise not using an additive in a critical system like the steering. Besides, at this point you don't really know if it is a seal or something else.
This exact thing happened to my very similar 1995 Toyota vehicle, and it was a leaky flexible hose which was perished. Additive would have done nothing.
Now, you can carry on as is for a short while, while keeping an eagle eye on the size of the leakage and the level in the reservoir, topping up as needed. However since it will only get worse, additive or not, you will eventually need to take it to a steering shop, sorry. Safer sooner than later.
Ring around for someone that gives a pensioner discount.
Many "pour in" chems are harsh and will not only swell the seals you need swelled but ALL seals. I have had a lot of success with Lucas additive. It seems not be as harsh as other products and is a good lubricant and conditioner. I recommend you drain the system if possible to get rid of as much old oil and contamination as possible to prevent additional wear as well.
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Clear odorless fluid. Leaves oily residue. Car does not overheat. Breaks work fine, steering is fine.
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