Audi A4 Power Steering Fluid

Your Audi A4 may need new power steering fluid if the wheel is stiff or your car screeches when you turn. It costs about $100 at a mechanic—or you can DIY.
Written by Elaine Yang
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Signs that you need to replace your
Audi A4’s
power steering fluid include a stiff wheel or a screeching noise when you turn. It costs about $100 with a mechanic or you can do it yourself.
  • If you’re experiencing a stiff steering wheel or screeching noise when you turn, you probably need to replace the fluid in your car’s power steering system.
  • Audi recommends that you use CHF 11S fluid for your Audi A4.
  • Check the fluid regularly and change it every 50,000 miles or 2 years—whichever comes first.

What type of power steering fluid does Audi A4 use?

Audi recommends owners of the Audi A4 use CHF 11S fluid when replacing their power steering fluid. 
Don’t worry if you can’t find that brand—while it does the best job, you can still use these options: 

How to change the Audi A4 power steering fluid

Now that you know what kind of power steering fluid to look for, you’re ready to replace it in your Audi A4.
Here’s what you need:
  • Something to siphon the old power fluid out of the reservoir (think shampoo pump or even turkey baster) 
  • Power steering fluid
  • Pliers
  • Paper towels for clean-up
  • Jack and jack stands (optional)
Here’s what to do:
  • Open the hood: Pull the hood release lever under your dashboard, then release your hood safety latch at the front of your hood. 
  • Find the power steering fluid reservoir: It should have a green cap and be near the lower right-hand side of the hood near your headlight.
  • Remove the old fluid: Use a turkey baster or shampoo pump to remove all of the old fluid from the reservoir.
  • Add new fluid: Fill the reservoir until the fluid is between the min and max fill lines. Don’t overfill! Then, twist the cap back on.
That’s a basic power steering fluid replacement. If you’re feeling bold, here are a couple of extra steps to do a full system flush:
  • Disconnect the power steering return line: You might notice clamps—loosen these with your pliers. Once the clamps are loose, drain the rest of the remaining fluid. 
  • Turn the wheel: Cycle the new fluid through your system by turning the steering wheel back and forth “from lock to lock”—making a full turn in each direction. Keep turning the wheel until you see the new fluid coming out. Using a jack can be helpful as it raises your car to reduce friction on your front wheels.
  • Reconnect your power steering hose: Check the fluid level in the reservoir, then run the engine for around 10 seconds. Turn the car off and top up the fluid if necessary. 
Once you’re finished running through all six steps, look on the ground and underneath the vehicle for any leaks. To be safe, take your car out for a drive—if you’re successful, it should feel smooth to turn your steering wheel. 

Change your power steering fluid every 50,000 miles or 2 years

Mechanics recommend you change your Audi A4’s power steering fluid every 50,000 miles or every two years—whichever comes first. 
Keep an eye out for the following signs as an indicator that it’s time for a fluid replacement: 
  • You notice your steering wheel is stiff when turning
  • Your steering wheel doesn’t have any resistance
  • Strange noises when turning
  • Black or brown fluid in the power steering reservoir 
Typically, clean power steering fluid is clear pink or amber in color. It’s usually a good idea to check on your power steering fluid reservoir every once in a while—especially if you notice any of the issues listed above. 
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