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Used wrong fluid for power steering

Discussion in '5th Gen 4Runners (2010-2024)' started by vietpimp, Nov 12, 2024.

  1. Nov 12, 2024 at 11:22 AM
    #1
    vietpimp

    vietpimp [OP] New Member

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    Hi everyone, I took my 4runner (2016) to a shop to have them check the power steering as the fluid was below min level in the reservoir and I was afraid that there might have been a leak somewhere. After checking everything, the mechanic said there was no leak and the pump was still working fine. He topped up the fluid but instead of using ATF like the manual says, he used normal PSF. Would that cause any issues? Should I have them flush the system and refill with the correct fluid?
     
  2. Nov 12, 2024 at 11:25 AM
    #2
    Dillusion

    Dillusion Resident A**h***

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    Don't lose any sleep.
     
    Rocko9999, Toy4X4 and RUNNER4DAN like this.
  3. Nov 12, 2024 at 1:20 PM
    #3
    jeepster09

    jeepster09 "Old"-Member....

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    Nothing to worry about. All vehicles used to use ATF. I have used both without issue.
     
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  4. Nov 12, 2024 at 1:52 PM
    #4
    Pavo

    Pavo New Member

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    TrailSpecial22 and Pentangler like this.
  5. Nov 12, 2024 at 4:11 PM
    #5
    icebear

    icebear Recovered Kia Owner

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    I wouldn’t worry too much since it’s there just for fluid pressure and lubricating simple bits, if you are still concerned since it’s not “proper” and don’t want to deal with flushing then you could do a handful of drain/fills via the reservoir over time. That’s what I’ve been doing to refresh the fluid in my steering system.

    Pulling hoses would be overall quicker and do it all at once but going from the reservoir lets me squeeze it in wherever without much prep.
     
  6. Nov 12, 2024 at 7:40 PM
    #6
    Trekker

    Trekker Regular Member

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    It's fine. Plenty of people have switched between these fluids with no issues
     
    jeepster09 likes this.
  7. Nov 13, 2024 at 10:31 AM
    #7
    MAXIM

    MAXIM New Member

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    Both ATF and Formulated Power Steering fluids are Hydraulic Fluids. You are okay no matter what you use.
     
    TrailSpecial22 likes this.

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