Power steering fluid - Dex 3?

I would advise using against power steering fluid in a system that calls for ATF. I'm sure it will work but that particular fluid does not say DEX on it anywhere that I can see anyway. If a system calls for power steering fluid then its clear but if it calls for anything dex its going to be red. The consensus is that Toyota sources the fluid from the manufacturer before it is died and that's why the factory fill is clear. Personally I'd stick with the Toyota branded ATF/Power Steering fluid(part# 00718-ATF00) that is DEXII/III just to be safe but would suggest using any ATF that says DEX on it over typical PS fluid.

 

I agree and the 00718-ATF00 is a safer bet and what I would be more likely to use.

In the southeast this is the "brand" that some Toyota fluids are sold as. Its hard to see in these photos on ebay, but the bottom left on the back label says manufactured for "Southeast Toyota Distributors", so this isn't some generic fluid. I was alluding to this potentially being a Dex III without dye, I have been unable to confirm that. Or Steering fluid that is likely safe to use in a Toyota at a minimum. Basically Toyota stuff in the southeast can be a bit weird.

For example a dealer in the southeast cannot order this (I have tried) https://parts.toyota.com/p/Toyota-Induction-Kit/69278036/00289INDKT.html

They get this instead https://www.ebay.com/itm/175211081180?epid=24037057437

 

Now I'm skeerd. My fluid is yellowish clear.

 

Thats what color it is from the factory. Manual calls for DexII/III ATF. This is the only stuff you can get anymore that is actually DexII/III since now every is a higher Dex number https://parts.toyota.com/p/Toyota-Automatic-Transmission-Fluid-DII/69278804/00718ATF00.html That said mamy people have been using maxlife without an issue.

 

Whatever you do, don't use the "old barn" or old garage fluid. They collect moisture especially if opened.

 

There are threads on the T4R forum about using those hand powered vacuum pumps to correctly flush the PS system, highly recommend that process. Stick to Toyota branded or Valvoline Maxlife.

 

https://youtu.be/mAIRqYs_dkE

I used a method like this. Very easy and exchanges all the fluid pretty quickly. I just put the return line right into an empty bottle though.

 

I got the pump & Toyota fluid. Damn getting that lower hose off the reservoir was a PITA! (swapped the tired old reservoir) Poured the fluid in & was expecting the clear yellow stuff, nope, it is red.

I paid 20 bucks, went up 1.74 in less than a week.

 

Maxlife ATF. Suck out and put back until clean.

 

@e30cabrio - my reservoir was cracked and gross on my Gen1. Ended up buying a new one on Rock Auto and using only the plastic part since the OEM bracket was better but the plastic was indistinguishable

 

I can confirm that the ServiceRite Power Steering fluid is what my local Toyota dealer uses/sells for my 2004 Camry. It is a clear amber liquid versus the red Dex III. I've had it in my Camry for a few years with no steering issues other than some minor weeping at the hose ends which is probably from age. However, I don't like that the bottle doesn't indicate Dex III compatible. I will probably go back to Dex III (like the Toyota ATF or Valvoline blue bottle) on my next flush.

 

Just did mine today. I bought the red bottle Valvoline Max Life. My truck only has 55k on it, but the fluid left such a dark residue in the reservoir that I thought it was the fluid level and ended up sucking in air. Went through a lot of fluid but I got it purged from lock-lock.

You guys have me wondering if the red bottle Valvoline was the wrong call.

It wouldn't hurt to change it again soon, once the Valvoline detergents have done their work. I am guessing it will come out dark again.

Also, why does ps fluid always have that smell? Is that the burned fluid smell?

 

I picked up the red bottle MaxLife Valvoline as well, got the gallon of it under $30 on sale with some spare oil for future changes.

Did 4 changes of drain/refill from the reservoir and a few miles driving between. Still have a lot left, but can't imagine I need to do anymore swaps for a few years. Pretty clean looking, nice TRD red color lol

 

I think I'm going to do it again with some Valvoline dex/merc in the blue bottle after the maxlife has a chance to flush out the system.

I like to stay away from "high mileage" stuff that swells the seals. I also think the dex/merc will be closest to OE fill without going to the dealer.

 

If you are concerned that you used the wrong product why not use the one that Toyota recommends? It's not very expensive it is cheaper through a dealer than third party. https://parts.battlefieldtoyota.com/p/69278804/00718-atf00.html

 

My dealer wants $14 a quart vs $17 a gallon at Walmart for Valvoline dex/merc. I'll buy the gallon and do both my truck and my little Scion.

I do go to the dealer for WS.

Trying to decide on coolant. Prestone and zerex both make Toyota/scion/Lexus reds.

 

How often are you going to change your power steering fluid though, same with coolant. Yeah sure you can save a few bucks but you're talking about saving a few bucks on something you most likely do every 2 or 3 years. The correct coolant is pink, not red, red is for older models. Toyota SLLC would be the OEM name. You don't have to buy from your local dealer, you can always order online from who ever is cheapest but to each their own I'm sure aftermarket atf and coolant will be sufficient to get the job done. I'm confused if you are willing to use non oem fluids in the radiator and power steering system why not also in the transmission?

 

I feel as if WS fluid is a magical fluid. I myself stick to WS but will use other brand fluid for other parts of maintenance. Like Dex 2-3 are all the same pretty much, same for antifreeze. I wonder what WS is made up of besides being a semi-synthetic.