Car maintenance is a pain, especially if you need to keep up with a part you didn’t know existed, let alone that you’d have to update it every few years. Not everyone knows that power steering requires fluid changes every couple of years in order to work properly.

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How do I replace my 2013 Dodge Charger’s power steering fluid?

The process for changing the power steering fluid on a 2013 Dodge Charger is a little involved than in some cars, so don’t feel bad if you decide to take it to a mechanic instead.

First of all, you’ll have to remove the left front wheel of your Charger. The power steering reservoir is located behind the wheel well, so use a jack to lift your car and remove the wheel. Once your wheel is off, follow these steps to change your power steering fluid.

Remove the wheel well cover by loosening the plastic rivets with a wrench.

Take off the black foam protectant to reveal the reservoir. It should be a white or light yellow looking container behind the wheel well cover.

Remove the reservoir cap.

Pump out the old fluid. Any pump will do—the pump from an empty shampoo bottle works great! Use another empty container to catch the old fluid and get as much as you can out of the reservoir.

Add new fluid to the reservoir– fill to the “MAX” line written on the side of the reservoir and pump out any excess if you accidentally go over the line.

Replace the reservoir cap.

Replace the piece of foam protector and the wheel well cover.

And there you have it! You’ve changed your power steering fluid. If you want to take your power steering fluid change to the next level, you can drain the very last drops of your power steering fluid by disconnecting the fluid line and wiggling your steering wheel.

MORE:

Basic car maintenance schedule

Should I change it myself or take it to a mechanic?

Here’s the bottom line—if you want to make absolutely sure that your power steering fluid has been changed correctly, your best bet is to take it to a professional. The

power steering fluid change process

is a bit harder on the 2013 Dodge Charger, so it’s definitely easier to take it to a mechanic.

It’s also more expensive, though, costing around $120 and taking an hour or less. If you’re okay with getting your hands dirty, you can change the power steering fluid in your car yourself for the cost of a bottle of fluid from an auto parts store, around $10 to $15.

MORE:

How to know if a mechanic is taking too long with car repairs

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Which power steering fluid is best for a 2013 Dodge Charger?

Every engine is different, and every power steering system is built with a specific fluid type in mind. For the 2013 Dodge Charger, it’s best to use fully synthetic PSF. We like

Prestone’s full synthetic fluid

for North American vehicles. Here are some of the best power steering fluids for a 2013 Dodge Charger to look for at an auto parts store.

Power steering fluid	Amount	Cost
Prestone PSF	32 ounces	$9.99
Peak Full Synthetic North American	12 ounces	$13.49
Pentosin ATF	5 liters (170 ounces)	$111.99

MORE: Why does my steering wheel shake, and how do I fix it?

When do I need to replace my 2013 Dodge Charger’s power steering fluid?

There’s some debate about when you should change your power steering fluid, but most experts agree that you should at least check your fluid level every 3 years or every 75,000 to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

That’s a wide range, though, and a lot can happen to your car in that time. You may have to change your power steering fluid early if you experience any of the following symptoms in your car.

Unfamiliar noises when you turn the wheel (squeaking, grinding, etc.)

Difficulty or resistance when steering

Bubbles in your power steering fluid

Fluid leakage

Fluid color change from clear to yellow

Proper power steering maintenance doesn’t just make driving easier and safer. It extends the life of your power steering system overall, and keeps you from needing a mechanic’s help down the line.

MORE:

How do I lower my car insurance after a speeding ticket?

How to save money on Dodge insurance

Performing regular maintenance like a power steering fluid change yourself isn't the only way to save money on your car. While maintenance bills can be pricey, they’re not the most expensive part of owning a car: that honor goes to your car insurance, costing Americans an average of $1,771 per year.

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FAQs

Can I replace the power steering fluid in my 2013 Dodge Charger myself?

Yes! While slightly more involved than other models, the process of changing your 2013 Dodge Charger’s power steering fluid can be done at home with a jack, a wrench, and a pump.

How often should I replace my 2013 Dodge Charger’s power steering fluid?

You should aim to change your power steering fluid every 3 years or 75,000 to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

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