The Pontiac Grand Prix comes in several types, defined by engine size. The ease of performing at home maintenance and fluid checks for your power steering fluid depends on which Pontiac Grand Prix vehicle you drive. For the 3.5 L engine model, the power steering reservoir is prominently located, while for the 3.0 and 3.8 L engines, it can take a little more work to discover.
Check the power steering fluid level in your Pontiac Grand Prix every 15,000 miles at the same time that you check all of the other fluids under your hood. You can check it sooner if you suspect a leak or have trouble steering, but you shouldn't have to add fluid before 60,000 miles.
Park your car on a level surface and allow at least half an hour for the engine to cool before you check the power-steering level. Warm power steering fluid reads at a different level than cool fluid.
Locate the power-steering fluid reservoir under the hood. In the 3.5 L Grand Prix, the reservoir is clearly visible on the passenger side of the engine. For 3.0 and 3.8 L vehicles, use a flashlight to look down past the alternator for a black cap with a steering wheel printed on it to indicate power steering fluid.
Remove the cap of the power-steering reservoir, clean the dipstick, re-insert and remove again to check the fluid level. If the level is below the low level mark, gradually add fluid, taking care not to fill over the maximum level mark.
Check the reservoir, power steering pump, hoses and connectors for any worn or broken parts that might be leaking or result in a leak. Replace any faulty components immediately, since hot power steering fluid leaking into the engine can result in serious damage to your vehicle.
