Power Steering: Checking Fluid Level

→ Avoid contact with caustic fluid.

→ Wear personal protective gear.

→ Ensure that there is good ventilation.

→ If you do come into contact, wash off immediately with plenty of warm water and contact a doctor if necessary.

→ Do not spill fluids.

→ In the event of contact, wash the component or surface with water.

→ Replace components that are already damaged.

Information 

Overfilling the system can cause Pentosin CHF 202 to overflow onto coolant hoses and other components. The engine must be run for approx. 20 seconds prior to the fluid level check. Multiple steering operations change the fluid level in the supply tank. Check the fluid level.

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 → Installing Steering Gear .

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

Fig 1: Locating Power-Steering Reservoir (Engine Compartment, Left Plenum Panel)

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.

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)!

Fig 2: Measuring Power-Steering Reservoir Oil Level

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Information 

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.