The Pontiac Grand Am has changed a lot since the 1970s, but for any Pontiac Grand Am vehicle performing at home maintenance of fluid levels is a simple routine. Checking the power steering fluid level can help you troubleshoot steering problems as well as prolong the life of your vehicle and prevent expensive repairs. As long as you can locate the power steering pump, you can check the fluid level.
Check the power steering fluid level in your Pontiac Grand Am every 7,500 miles along with the other fluids in your vehicle like brake fluid and transmission fluid. You can check it sooner if you suspect a leak or have trouble steering.
Make sure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface and that the engine is cool before you check the fluid level since warm power steering fluid or any fluid on an incline will cause an inaccurate reading.
Locate the power steering pump, below the alternator on the passenger side under the hood. Find the power steering reservoir on top of the pump and remove the cap and dipstick to check the fluid level.
Clean the dipstick with a rag and re-insert and remove once again to check the fluid level. Make sure that the fluid level is above the low level mark and does not exceed the maximum. Add fluid if necessary, using a funnel if you have difficulty reaching the reservoir.
Check the reservoir, hoses and pump for any signs of a leak, as indicated by worn or broken parts. Replace any faulty parts immediately as hot fluid leaking into the engine can cause serious damage to your Pontiac Grand Am.
