Power steering fluid leak
How it can appear on an MOT certificate
- “Power steering fluid leaking”
- “Power steering fluid level below minimum”
What it is
Hydraulic power steering uses fluid pumped under pressure to make the steering lighter. Some newer cars use electric power steering instead and have no fluid.
Why it matters
A leak can let the fluid run low, making the steering heavy and damaging the pump. Fluid dripping onto the road is also an environmental issue.
What to check when viewing a car
Look for damp, oily patches around the steering rack and pump, and listen for whining when turning the wheel at a standstill.
Has the car you're looking at had this before?
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What the MOT categories mean
- Dangerous
- A direct and immediate risk to road safety, or a serious impact on the environment. The car fails and shouldn't be driven until it's repaired.
- Major
- It may affect the car's safety, put other road users at risk or harm the environment. The car fails and should be repaired straight away.
- Minor
- No significant effect on safety or the environment. The car passes, but it should be repaired as soon as possible.
- Advisory
- Something to keep an eye on that could need repairing in future. The car passes.
Related: suspension and steering
- Coil spring fractured or broken
- Shock absorber leaking or worn
- Suspension arm ball joint worn
- Suspension arm pin or bush worn
- Anti-roll bar linkage (drop link) worn
- Anti-roll bar bush or mounting worn
Buying a used car?
General information about this type of MOT defect, not advice about a particular car. How serious it is depends on the car; have any car you're buying inspected by a qualified mechanic.