How to Replace Power Steering Fluid For an Audi A6 2003

You can replace your Audi A6 2003’s power steering fluid by removing the green reservoir cap, draining the old fluid, and refilling it with Prestone fluid.
Written by Bonnie Stinson
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
You can replace your Audi A6 2003’s power steering fluid by draining the old fluid from the reservoir, then filling it with brand-new Pentosin 11S. Most Audi A6s have a green cap.
Power steering fluid is crucial. If you’re dealing with screeching or stiffening while steering, you need to replace your Audi’s power steering fluid. This process is only a little complicated.
Jerry
, the
insurance
shopping super app, is here to guide you through it.
This article explains everything you need to know, from how to replace the fluid, which brands of steering fluid are best for an Audi, and key indicators that it’s time to swap the fluid. Read to the end for a few bonus tips on how to save money on your
Audi A6 car insurance
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How do I replace my Audi A6 2003’s power steering fluid?

To replace the Audio A6 2003’s power steering fluid, follow these steps:
  • Find the power steering reservoir. It probably has a green cap and is located on the driver’s side under the hood.
  • Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the reservoir from its retaining clips. Gently lift it slightly and then, using needle-nose pliers, remove the clamp from the return line (the line on the right closest to the front of the car).
  • Place a container under the vehicle and remove the line. The old fluid will drain into the container. Once completely drained, proceed.
  • Remove the filter and clean it. Wait until it’s fully dry or use compressed air to dry it.
  • Crimp the supply line with a golf tee and add fluid. You should expect to need approximately one liter for this flushing. Then, point the supply line into the container and start the engine for two seconds. Repeat until fluid appears clear.
  • Refill the reservoir with new fluid and replace the cap. First, replace the clamp and line securely. Top it off to the fill line. Then, start the car and wiggle the wheel back and forth. Go back under the hood to check for bubbles in the reservoir. Repeat until there are no more bubbles.
The process should take less than an hour, especially if your Audi A6 does not require a full flush. It can be messy work, so if getting your hands dirty isn't your thing, bring your Audi to a
mechanic
. Let's take a look at a few of the pros and cons.
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

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

If you're comfortable working on cars, then there's no reason you shouldn't save money and do the replacement yourself. The cost will be about $20 for the power steering fluid and you just need to find a safe place to perform the service.
If you’d rather be confident that the replacement is done properly, it’s best to bring your Audi A6 2003 to a repair shop for a power steering fluid replacement. They can flush it in an hour or less, and the price is about $120.

Which power steering fluid is best for an Audi A6 2003?

Experts agree that the best power steering fluid for an Audi A6 2003 is
Pentosin 11S
, a synthetic product that works in all A6 cars and wagons manufactured between 1995 and 2011. This product is used with other popular car brands like Bentley and
Porsche
, too.
Here are some options:
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Pro Tip Make sure you choose a power steering fluid that is compatible with Audi. Pentosin is the OEM product, so that’s always a safe bet. 

When do I need to replace my Audi A6 2003’s power steering fluid?

There is no set standard interval for replacing power steering fluid as part of
basic car maintenance
. Check your owner’s manual for more information.
There are some situations in which you should replace the fluid immediately. If you notice any of the following signs, you should probably replace your power steering fluid: 
  • Stiffness or difficulty turning the wheel smoothly
  • Odd noises like shrieking or squeaking when you turn the wheel
  • Leakage or wrong colors in the fluid
  • Bubbles in the power steering fluid
This is a safety issue, so it’s very important to top up your fluid at the first sign of a problem. Plus, great maintenance habits will improve the lifespan of your vehicle!
Remember, proper power steering fluid doesn’t just make driving easier—it also improves the lifespan of your car! Be sure to follow
maintenance best practices
to keep your Odyssey humming for years down the line.

How to save money on Audi insurance

Spending money on your car is unavoidable. From rising gas prices to car washes, owning a vehicle can be quite expensive! Luckily, you can still find savings on your
Audi insurance costs
—even with everything going on in the world today.
Start by downloading
Jerry
, the
car insurance
super app. With Jerry, you can quickly review competitive rates from top companies to get the most coverage at the cheapest price for your Audi. The whole process takes just 45 seconds and you could save more than $800 a year. Maximum impact, minimum effort!
“It never occurred to me to look for more insurance quotes, but I’m so happy I saw
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FAQs

Yes! If you’re comfortable working on cars and you have the tools, save yourself some money by draining and refilling the power fluid yourself.
If you’re interested in peak performance, you can replace the power steering fluid every two to three years. However, this is not recommended by manufacturers. In general, you should plan to replace the fluid only when you have trouble steering.
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