How to Replace Power Steering Fluid For a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer

You can easily check and replace your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer’s power steering fluid from home—read this for a customized how-to guide.
Written by Kathryn Mae Kurlychek
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Replacing the power steering fluid in your
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
is simple: just locate your power steering reservoir, pump out the old fluid, and add new Genuine Mitsubishi power steering fluid to the appropriate level, staying mindful not to overfill! 
Your vehicle’s power steering system assists with turning and steering your car so that you can corner and parallel park with ease. But when the steering wheel starts to feel stiff, or–god forbid—begins to screech or whine when you turn it, it may be time for you to change your Lancer’s power steering fluid.
Can't find your owner's manual? Don't worry—here to walk you through the process of checking and changing your power steering fluid is
Jerry
, the
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comparison
super app
. We'll have expert advice on car maintenance and will cover the steps you can take to safely change your power steering fluid at home to save
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How do I replace my 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer’s power steering fluid?

You'll find your Mitsubishi Lancer's power steering reservoir underneath the hood on the passenger's side, just behind your engine coolant reservoir. To check your power steering fluid level, locate the reservoir and find the "MAX" and "MIN" markings on the side of the reservoir tank. 
Ideally, your power steering fluid will fall somewhere between those two lines. If you notice your power steering fluid below the "MIN" line, you'll want to refill it as soon as possible. 
Depending on the quality of your power steering fluid, you may not need to completely change it every time you're due for a top-off. About once every two years or so (or every 75,000 miles), you'll want to flush out the old power steering fluid and replace it with new. If you're up to the task, follow these steps:
  • Let your car heat up to normal operating temperature, then shut off your engine and pop the hood.
  • Locate the power steering reservoir and remove the cap.
  • Use a pump or syringe to siphon out the old power steering fluid. Fellow Lancer owners recommend using a turkey baster —but you could also use other household items like a shampoo or soap bottle to create a makeshift pump.
  • Refill the reservoir and replace the cap. Be sure the fluid line falls between the “MAX” and “MIN” markings on the side of your tank! 
If you’re looking to go the extra mile, you can add these additional steps when changing your power steering fluid:
  • Carefully dismantle the reservoir by unscrewing the 12mm bolts and disconnecting the hoses.
  • Empty the remaining fluid and clean out the inside of the reservoir tank, if necessary.
Not up for changing the power steering fluid yourself? No problem—you can have your Lancer
serviced by a mechanic
.
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid
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Should I change it myself or take it to a mechanic?

Whether you're strapped for time or just not in the mood to deal with getting your hands greasy, going with a mechanic is also a good option. They can flush and change your Mitsubishi Lancer's power steering fluid in an hour for around $100 to $120
Thankfully, it's an expense you shouldn't run into too often, as your power steering fluid only needs to be changed every 75,000 miles or so. On the other hand, you should be regularly checking your power steering fluid levels once a month

Which power steering fluid is best for a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer?

When choosing the best power steering fluid for your Mitsubishi Lancer, there are plenty of great options! The manufacturer-recommended power steering fluid is
Genuine Mitsubishi power steering fluid
, or ATF SP-III. But knowing your manufacturer’s recommendation doesn’t mean you have to take it—if you’re looking for a high-quality alternative, here are some of our top pics:
Power steering fluid
Amount
Cost
Prestone Asian Vehicle Power Steering Fluid
12 ounces
$12.49
Valvoline DEX/MERC ATF Conventional Automatic Transmission Fluid
32 ounces
$11.99
Idemitsu PSF Universal Power Steering Fluid for Asian Vehicles
12 ounces
$7.70

When do I need to replace my 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer’s power steering fluid?

You should make checking your power steering fluid levels part of your
regular maintenance routine
—but when it comes to changing the power steering fluid completely, you’ll only need to do so once every two to four years, or every 75,000—whichever comes first.
Alternatively, if you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be time to change your power steering fluid: 
  • Loud or unfamiliar noises coming from your steering wheel, especially when it is turned
  • Difficulty or stiffness when turning your wheel
  • A change in fluid color from clear to yellow, or the appearance of bubbles in the fluid
  • Fluid leakage 
Make sure to promptly address any of the above issues as soon as you notice them. Problems with your power steering system can lead to dangerous driving conditions or, worst-case scenario, an outright failure of your power assist steering.  

How to save money on Mitsubishi insurance

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FAQs

Yes! You can replace the power steering fluid in your Mitsubishi Lancer by removing the reservoir cap and siphoning out the old fluid. Once you're done, refill the reservoir with Genuine Mitsubishi power steering fluid, and make sure the level falls somewhere betwen the "MAX" and "MIN" lines on your reservoir tank!
You should check your power steering fluid levels regularly and top the fluid off as needed. When replacing the power steering fluid, you only need to do so once every 75,000 miles (approximately once every two to four years, depending on how much you drive).
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