Power steering: Checking fluid level

CAUTION: Increased risk of accident and material damage if too much Pentosin CHF 11 S is filled in or if Pentosin CHF 11 S comes into contact with the coolant hoses when filling or topping up.

Overfilling of the system with consequent overflow of Pentosin CHF 11 S onto coolant hoses and other components may occur.

→ Before inspecting the fluid level, run the engine for approx. 20 seconds. Multiple steering operations (manoeuvring) will alter the fluid level in the reservoir! Check the fluid level.

→ If coolant hoses come into contact with Pentosin, thoroughly clean them with water IMMEDIATELY.

→ Replace visibly swollen coolant hoses.

Damage to the power-assisted steering will occur if there is a shortage of oil in the hydraulic system. Even small leaks can cause the fluid to escape as a result of the high oil pressure present in the hydraulic circuit and damage the servo pump.

Grunt-like noises on turning the steering to full lock or foam formation in the reservoir indicate a shortage of oil and/or the absorption of air. Before filling the reservoir, any existing leaks must be eliminated. In this case the oil level in the reservoir must be checked with the engine running as well as stopped! If the oil level drops to the bottom of the reservoir or bubbles rise up, then there is air in the hydraulic system. The system must then be bled. Refer to 48 IN TEST AND ASSEMBLY WORK ON POWER STEERING - AS OF MY 2003 (ALL MODELS EXCEPT CAYENNE S TIO TITAN) .

Fig 1: Power-steering reservoir (engine compartment, left plenum panel)

Courtesy of PORSCHE OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The reservoir is located in the engine compartment, front left under the engine compartment cover -arrow- . See Fig 1.

Use only Pentosin CHF 11 S in the reservoir. Pentosin CHF 11 S can be ordered under the following part number: Quantity supplied 1 litre = 000.043.203.33.

Fig 2: Dipstick and power-steering reservoir

Courtesy of PORSCHE OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

A dipstick with a MIN/MAX marking is mounted on the closure cap of the expansion tank. The marks are for a fluid level with a cold engine (approx. 20 °C)!

NOTE: The MAX mark can be easily exceeded at higher temperatures!

1. Start engine and run it at idle speed for approx. 20 seconds. Switch off engine.

2. Open engine cover and open the lid of the engine compartment cover.

3. Open reservoir cap.

4. Wipe dipstick. Close and then reopen cap. The fluid level must be in the indicated range (MAX/MIN level at approx. 20 °C). Top up with Pentosin if necessary.