Power steering fluid is an essential hydraulic fluid that transmits power in the power steering systems of vehicles. This system is pivotal in making steering smoother and more manageable, especially at lower speeds. The fluid operates under high pressure and temperature, ensuring the steering rack, pinion, or steering box can effortlessly control the vehicle’s wheels.
Power steering fluid also protects the steering system against wear and tear, reduces friction, and prevents the buildup of sludge and rust.
PSF-4 is a high-quality synthetic power steering fluid developed as an upgrade to the discontinued PSF-3. Hyundai introduced PSF-4 as an advanced formulation tailored specifically for their vehicles. It’s not just an ordinary fluid; PSF-4 is made with premium quality base stocks and is added with a technologically advanced additive system. This particular composition makes it highly effective in protecting the power steering unit from rust and wear, especially during heat-ups, which are common in steering systems.
The fluid is also designed to be compatible with earlier PSF-3 specifications, meaning that it can be used to top off PSF-3 but with precautions. This backward compatibility is an advantage for those transitioning from PSF-3 to PSF-4.
Moreover, PSF-4 is OEM-approved and is designed explicitly for Kia and Hyundai vehicles. This makes it the ideal choice for these vehicles as it meets the manufacturer’s specifications and ensures the best performance and protection of the steering system. PSF-4 is particularly crucial for vehicles still under warranty, as using non-OEM fluids can sometimes void warranties.
In summary, PSF-4 is not just a power steering fluid; it is a carefully engineered product that ensures the longevity and optimal performance of the steering systems in Kia and Hyundai vehicles.
Understanding PSF-4 Power Steering Fluid
PSF-4 is a synthetic power steering fluid, meaning that it is formulated using chemically-engineered base stocks. This synthetic composition gives superior performance to conventional mineral oils, especially at high temperatures, and ensures smoother steering.
One significant advantage of PSF-4 is its ability to protect the power steering system from sludge and rust. The advanced formulation of PSF-4 ensures that contaminants do not build up in the system, which can lead to impaired performance and eventual failure.
PSF-4 has been specifically designed for use in Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The manufacturers considered the particular requirements of these vehicles’ steering systems when developing PSF-4, ensuring that it would provide optimal performance and protection.
In addition to high-quality synthetic base stocks, PSF-4 contains a technologically advanced additive system. These additives further enhance the fluid’s performance by reducing wear, preventing rust, and ensuring that it maintains its properties even under extreme conditions.
Interchangeability Of PSF-4 With PSF-3
PSF-4 is designed to be backward compatible with PSF-3, meaning that it can be used in systems originally designed for PSF-3. However, transitioning from PSF-3 to PSF-4 should be done with care and attention to best practices to ensure the integrity and performance of the power steering system.
The PSF-4 formulation was developed as an upgrade to the PSF-3 and is compatible with systems initially using PSF-3. The newer PSF-4 fluid can be used to top off a system containing PSF-3, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
While it is technically possible to top off PSF-3 with PSF-4, mixing the two fluids should be done cautiously. Here are some precautions and best practices to follow:
- Limited Mixing: When topping off PSF-3 with PSF-4, it is recommended to add not more than 50% of PSF-4 to the existing PSF-3. This is to ensure that the fluid’s properties remain consistent and do not react adversely under heat or pressure.
- Avoid Mixing in Newer Vehicles: For vehicles already running on PSF-4, it is not recommended to add PSF-3. Always use the fluid that the vehicle is currently running on, especially for newer models.
- Complete Fluid Change: Rather than mixing the two fluids, a better practice is to change the power steering fluid from PSF-3 to PSF-4 completely. This involves draining all the PSF-3 from the system and then filling it with PSF-4. To ensure a complete fluid change, it is necessary to:
a. Suck out all the residual oil in the PSF reservoir.
b. Move the steering wheel back and forth and to the extreme ends as part of the topping-off procedure.
c. Repeat this procedure several times to drain out and replace the PSF-3 in the reservoir, steering pumps, and gears.
PSF-4 Equivalents
When looking for alternatives to PSF-4, it’s important to consider products that can match or closely resemble the properties of PSF-4. This section reviews two alternatives that are considered good substitutes for PSF-4.
Lubegard 23232
- The service solution for ALL European, North American, and Asian vehicles (Honda fluid recommended for Honda/Acura vehicles)
- Reduces friction and protects seals and hoses – extending the life of the power steering system
- Provides excellent cold and high temperature performance eliminating “morning sickness” stiffness
- Excellent for use in electric hydraulic systems
LUBEGARD 23232 is a synthetic power steering fluid that is touted to be fully compatible with PSF-3. It is particularly recommended for Hyundai vehicles that are out of warranty.
Features
- Compatibility: LUBEGARD 23232 is fully compatible with PSF-3, making it a feasible alternative to PSF-4.
- ILI Technology: This fluid is designed with ILI technology, which is an amalgamation of TME and Synergol LXE technologies. This combination makes LUBEGARD 23232 a high-performing anti-wear and non-polluting substance.
- Heat Stability: The molecular structure of LXE (Liquid Wax Ester) helps the fluid maintain heat stability by allowing unsurpassed heat transfer.
- Seal Protection: This fluid has been tested and proven to protect seals and parts from leaking, extending the life of anti-wear materials for components of the system.
Pros And Cons
Pros
- High-quality anti-wear formula
- Efficient performance in extreme temperatures
- Reduces steering noises and whines
- Protects seals and parts from leaking
- Affordable
Cons
- The power steering pump may whine in some models
PEAK OET PSF For Asian Vehicles
- POWER STEERING FLUID: Made specifically to satisfy the OEM requirements for your Asian vehicle, this formula has been rigorously tested to ensure it meets your car’s specific requirements
- ULTIMATE PROTECTION: Unique blend of additives provides ultimate protection to the power steering system, even when operating at extreme temperatures
- PREVENTS CORROSION: Robust corrosion inhibitors and anti-wear additives deliver exceptional pump protection to ensure a long system life
- ALL-SEASON PERFORMANCE: Antioxidants help prevent fluid breakdown at high temperatures, while the viscosity modifiers provide excellent cold weather steering operation for all-season performance
Features:
- Specially formulated for Asian vehicles.
- Provides optimal performance and protection for power steering systems.
- Meets or exceeds vehicle manufacturer specifications.
- Protects against wear, oxidation, and corrosion.
- Ensures smooth and quiet steering operation.
Pros:
- Suitable for a wide range of Asian vehicles.
- Offers excellent protection against wear and corrosion.
- Provides smooth and quiet steering performance.
Cons:
- Not as brand-specific as PSF-4, so it may not provide the same level of optimization for Hyundai or Kia vehicles.
Final Recommendations
When selecting a power steering fluid, it’s crucial to consider the specific needs and conditions of your vehicle. Here, we’ll discuss when to use OEM PSF-4 and when to consider alternatives, followed by our final verdict on the closest alternative to PSF-4.
When To Use OEM PSF-4
- Under Warranty: If your vehicle is still under warranty, it’s highly recommended to use the OEM PSF-4 to ensure compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines and to maintain warranty coverage.
- Hyundai and Kia Vehicles: PSF-4 is specially designed for Hyundai and Kia vehicles, so if you own one of these, PSF-4 would be the optimal choice.
- High-Performance Needs: PSF-4 is a high-quality synthetic fluid with advanced additives, which is ideal for high-performance requirements and protecting the power steering unit from rust, sludge, and wear.
When To Consider Alternatives
- Out of Warranty: If your vehicle is no longer under warranty, you have more flexibility in choosing an alternative without voiding any warranty.
- Budget Constraints: If you are looking for a more affordable option without compromising much on performance, considering alternatives can be beneficial.
- Availability Issues: In cases where PSF-4 is not readily available, having a reliable alternative can be handy.
Final Verdict On The Closest Alternative To PSF-4
After reviewing the alternatives, LUBEGARD 23232 emerges as one of the closest alternatives to PSF-4. It is fully compatible with PSF-3 and is designed with advanced technologies that make it a high-performing anti-wear and non-polluting substance. It is also efficient in extreme temperatures and protects seals and parts from leaking.
LUBEGARD 23232 is also more affordable compared to OEM PSF-4, making it an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly alternative.