How to Maintain Power-Steering Fluid Levels in a VW Beetle
- 1). Check the power-steering fluid level in your Volkswagen Beetle every 15,000 miles, when you also conduct routine fluid maintenance for the transmission fluid, brake fluid and coolant. You may also check the fluid level sooner if you experience difficulty steering or notice fluid leaking.
- 2). Make sure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface when you prepare to check the power-steering fluid level. Take note of whether the engine is hot or cold when you begin your maintenance work.
- 3). Locate the power-steering fluid reservoir in the engine compartment. The reservoir should be clearly labeled. Remove the lid to check the fluid level, locating the low-level mark for either "hot" or "cold" depending on the engine temperature.
- 4). Add power-steering fluid if the level is low, but add fluid slowly to avoid over filling the small reservoir canister. If you do over fill the reservoir, drain excess fluid by detaching the hose at the bottom.
- 5). Inspect the power-steering system when you check the fluid level to make sure there are no potential leaks. Broken, cracked or loose parts should be fixed or replaced immediately to prevent hot fluid from leaking into the engine and causing damage.
Source...