A telltale sign that the fluid level is low on cars with power steering is a hissing or squealing sound as the steering wheel's turned and it can be harder to turn. Most power steering systems use automatic transmission fluid, but check your car’s handbook – different systems use different fluids.

Check power steering fluid levels once a week, or before a long journey. Once again, topping up regularly could mean you have a leak. The power steering fluid reservoir is either transparent with level markings on the outside, or could have a dipstick fitted to the filler cap.

1. If you need to remove the filler cap to check the level, wipe around the cap first, then unscrew the cap.
2. Look at the fluid level. There could be hot and cold level markings depending on the engine temperature - the level should be up to the relevant mark.
3. If the level’s too low, top up to the correct mark then replace the filler cap tightly.