Power steering fluid = ATF???
Thread Starter
Driver
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 52
Likes: 7
Power steering fluid = ATF???
This DIY was linked from a 2nd gen posting (https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...uid-flush.html) but it basically states to use Desron II or III. The problem is I'm having an issue finding in something official where it states to use ATF vs power steering fluid.
The maintenance schedule just states to check all fluid levels and replace brake and transmission fluid...nothing specific about power steering (http://www.lexus.com/pdf/service/MY1...350_WSG_lr.pdf)
This guy is emphatically upset that PS fluid was put in his 2nd gen and not ATF (https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ing-fluid.html)
Do I really need ATF?
The maintenance schedule just states to check all fluid levels and replace brake and transmission fluid...nothing specific about power steering (http://www.lexus.com/pdf/service/MY1...350_WSG_lr.pdf)
This guy is emphatically upset that PS fluid was put in his 2nd gen and not ATF (https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ing-fluid.html)
Do I really need ATF?
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,242
Likes: 24
From: IL
Correct, Dexron III. Don't use T4, WS, Dexron VI or Power Steering Fluid.
Lexus recommends only Dexron II or III. I think the PS cap says it too.
PS fluid is a friction modified fluid that the American cars typically use. Oddly the Lexus/Toy uses Dex II/III.
Just use the right stuff. Not PS fluid. Just use Dex II/III. I use Dex III in everything I have (GM and Lex) for PS fluid. Never an issue.
Lexus recommends only Dexron II or III. I think the PS cap says it too.
PS fluid is a friction modified fluid that the American cars typically use. Oddly the Lexus/Toy uses Dex II/III.
Just use the right stuff. Not PS fluid. Just use Dex II/III. I use Dex III in everything I have (GM and Lex) for PS fluid. Never an issue.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,242
Likes: 24
From: IL
I use Amsoil ATF only in mine. Nothing less. I tried Royal Purple PS fluid, but the steering didn't feel right in my GS400, I flushed that junk out till I got only red Amsoil in there. That is when I realized that it requires Dex III not PS fluid.
Any Dexron III is going to be a good fluid. Get a good name, synthetic isn't required at all. Nice to have, but not required.
Toyota/Lexus never required synthetic.
Any Dexron III is going to be a good fluid. Get a good name, synthetic isn't required at all. Nice to have, but not required.
Toyota/Lexus never required synthetic.
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 934
Likes: 198
From: N. CA
I flushed and refilled my with Dexron ATF last Nov and no problem since.
http://www.valvoline.com/products/co...ssion-fluid/33
http://www.valvoline.com/products/co...ssion-fluid/33
Trending Topics
ClubLexus Stories
Celebrating Lexus & Toyota from Around the Globe
Top 10 Most Confusing Things Lexus Has Ever Done!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Lexus ES Review: Lexus Re-Embraces Founding Principles
Michael S. Palmer
10 Lexus Bargains That are Cheaper Than a New Toyota RAV4
Joe Kucinski
8 Weirdest Things Lexus Has Ever Built
Verdad Gallardo
10 Lexus Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
8 Tips for Improving Your Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid's Efficiency!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Best Lexus Models No One Remembers
Joe Kucinski
TRD Off-Road Premium: Best 2026 4Runner, Except This One Thing
Michael S. Palmer
Top 10 Lexus & Toyotas to Drive Before You Die!
Joe Kucinski
Rookie
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 28
Likes: 5
From: VA
Adding Power Steering Fluid (Dextron III)
I've had a leaky bellows boot but haven't had to add Power Steering Fluid (PSF). I'm now at the lower "cool" line level so I need to add it. First time since last April. I also want some on hand in case a major issue occurs. I'm planning on replacing the leaky passenger-side boot and then the whole rack when necessary.
The question is since I've had different mechanics servicing my 2009 RX350 for several years I don't know if they've used a generic PSF or Dextron III. I'm planning on purchasing Dextron III. Can I just add the Dextron III to the reservoir or should I take the additional step to flush out the remaining unknown PSF before adding some Dextron III? I will obviously request Dextron III when the rack is replaced.
The question is since I've had different mechanics servicing my 2009 RX350 for several years I don't know if they've used a generic PSF or Dextron III. I'm planning on purchasing Dextron III. Can I just add the Dextron III to the reservoir or should I take the additional step to flush out the remaining unknown PSF before adding some Dextron III? I will obviously request Dextron III when the rack is replaced.
6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2024
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Greetings. Any suggestions about Dexron III compatible, for example Liqui Moly Top Tech ATF 1200. In a description says:
Specifications / Approvals: Allison C4, Dexron III H, Honda ATF Z1 (außer CVT), Hyundai SP-II/SP-III, JASO 1-A, Kia SP-II/SP-III, Mazda ATF M-III/ATF M-V, Mitsubishi SP-II/SP-III, Nissan AT-Matic D Fluid/AT-Matic J Fluid/AT-Matic K Fluid,
Toyota Type T-II/Type T-IV.
So, that means approved for the places where Dexron III recommended.
Any experience?
Specifications / Approvals: Allison C4, Dexron III H, Honda ATF Z1 (außer CVT), Hyundai SP-II/SP-III, JASO 1-A, Kia SP-II/SP-III, Mazda ATF M-III/ATF M-V, Mitsubishi SP-II/SP-III, Nissan AT-Matic D Fluid/AT-Matic J Fluid/AT-Matic K Fluid,
Toyota Type T-II/Type T-IV.
So, that means approved for the places where Dexron III recommended.
Any experience?
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
RuninRoach
RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009)
14
Dec 4, 2014 05:13 PM
