We generally don’t give much thought to our power steering as it’s expected to work with fail.
However, the power steering components and the fluid that keeps them operating properly need regular inspection and replacement.
The correct power steering fluid (PSF) is critical to the performance of GM vehicles. Using the incorrect fluid can result in leaks and damage that is costly to repair.
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The Difference Between GM Power Steering Fluid 1050017 and 1052884
The difference between GM’s 1050017 and 1052884 power steering fluid relates to its ability to perform in cold climates. The 1050017 comes in a quart-sized bottle while the 1052884 is available in pint bottles. 1052884 has added anti-freeze properties that reduce its viscosity at low temperatures.
While the two power steering fluids look similar in color and appear to be the same, the synthetic additives in the cold climate fluid ensure that it doesn’t gum up the power steering pump and associated components when the temperature drops.
It is also important to note that you shouldn’t mix and match fluids. You should especially not use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in your GM power steering, as it doesn’t have the same properties as the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) power steering fluid.
Be Careful with Older Model GM Vehicles
The rubber hoses on older model GM power steering systems can corrode and fail if the incorrect specification power steering fluid is used.
The additives in the newer fluid are corrosive and are not compatible with older rubber which breaks down and develops leaks.
When consulting the manual on which power steering fluid to use, you’ll see a reference to power steering fluid meeting the GM part 1050017 or 1052884 specification. This then refers to GM specification 9985010.
On further investigation, the GM specification 9985010 was superseded by GM specification GMW18330. The new specification came into being in November 2020.
However, the products available in auto-stores will still reference the old specifications until stocks run out.
Also, bear in mind that this is specifically for GM products and once you start looking at after-market or non-OEM fluids, you may not be getting the correct additive mix required for your GM power steering system.
Due to the difficulties experienced with GM power steering, it is recommended that you only use the GM power steering fluid to avoid possible incompatibility problems resulting in leaks and excessive noise.
What Does the Power Steering Fluid Do?
Power steering fluid is designed to work with hydraulic pressure to lubricate and provide assistance in turning your vehicle‘s wheels.
It does this using a pump driven by the motor.
The fluid transfers power to the steering rack while at the same time ensuring that all the moving parts in the system move smoothly without binding.
The multiple properties needed to make sure that the valves, pistons, and hoses work as intended is the reason for not adding ATF or any other power steering fluid of a different specification to your power steering.
Once the fluid has worn out, it must be changed. The power steering system must then be purged of all the old fluid as well as any sediment that has built up over the miles.
Different Types of Power Steering Fluid
It’s worthwhile to reiterate that GM power steering requires very specific fluid.
While other manufacturers make allowance for the use of a variety of different power steering fluids, GM’s systems are sensitive to non-specified PSF.
Refer to your owner’s manual to establish what type of power steering fluid to use in your car.
While some power steering systems work fine with automatic transmission fluid (ATF), GM products do not.
The new GM specifications take into account synthetic power steering fluids.
These fluids are not natural lubricants but are rather artificial liquids designed in a laboratory.
They are engineered to meet the specifications of each manufacturer’s power steering system.
Mineral hydraulic fluids that are non-synthetic are another fluid you should not use in GM products. Treat them the same way you would ATF.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid on a GM Vehicle
If you start to hear a whining sound coming from your steering when you turn the wheel or if it grinds or becomes difficult to turn, check your power steering fluid level.
A noisy or hard-to-turn steering wheel may only indicate that your power steering is running low on fluid. It does not necessarily mean that you have to change the fluid.
However, after about 50,000 to 75,000 miles or two years, depending on your vehicle’s maintenance manual, the steering fluid must be changed.
If your PSF is a black, dirty brown color or if it’s foamy, then it’s time to drain it and replace it.
To check the power steering fluid:
Step 1.
Warm up the car so that it is at a normal operating temperature and then turn off the engine.
Step 2.
Locate the PSF reservoir and wipe off all grease and grime to avoid it contaminating the system when you open it.
Step 3.
Unscrew the cap and wipe the attached dipstick clean with a cloth before putting it back in the reservoir.
Step 4.
Remove the cap and check the fluid level on the dipstick. If it’s below the “MIN” mark, top up the reservoir with the appropriate specification PSF.
Step 5.
If the fluid appears dark or foamy, then it needs replacement. If it’s clear, then topping it off is all that is needed.
Should You Mix Steering Fluids of Different Colors?
It is not recommended that you mix power steering fluids with different specifications.
Different colors usually denote a different specification which includes a variety of additives in different quantities.
Mixing red and green power steering fluid will drastically change its chemical make-up and physical properties. This is a sure way to damage your vehicle’s power steering.
When replacing the power steering fluid, you can use a cheaper fluid to flush out the system. Once you’ve flushed and drained the system of all the fluid and sediment, you must fill it up with the correct PSF.
Some owners switch on the engine when draining their power steering. This is not advised as it can ruin your power steering pump. Rather, rotate the steering wheel from lock to lock, which will be sufficient to allow the fluid and any sludge to drain out.
Frequently Asked Questions About GM Power Steering Fluid
Are there different grades of power steering fluid?
There are different grades of power steering fluid as it is formulated to the specification of each manufacturer and each model. While some power steering fluids can be used across a range of different vehicles and manufacturers, specialized power steering fluid is required for most GM vehicles. General Motors issues part specification numbers so that the correct grade of PSF is used.
What color is GM power steering fluid?
The mineral oil power steering fluid supplied by GM is clear with an amber-colored tinge. It contains a specially formulated mix of synthetic additives that can change the color to a more reddish-brown or pink hue. In general, the power steering fluid is red, but this does not give an indication of its additives or suitability for use in GM power steering systems.
What happens if I use the wrong power steering fluid?
If you use the incorrect power steering fluid you risk damaging the piston, seals, hoses, and pump. The GM power steering fluid is specially designed to avoid corroding the rubber fittings as well as provide lubrication. Using the wrong power steering fluid can lead to leaks and reduced effectiveness.
Conclusion On The Difference Between GM Power Steering Fluid 1050017 and 1052884
GM power steering fluids are specific to the model of each vehicle and should not be interchanged. Using the wrong power steering fluid or exchanging it for automatic transmission fluid can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs.
If in doubt, consult the vehicle manual or a GM dealer to obtain the correct power steering fluid specification.