I accidentally poured brake fluid into the power steering reservoir?

Question

About 3-4 ounces into the power steering unit of a 2000 Honda Accord about a week ago. So far, no adverse affects.
Can I just siphon it out and replace with steering fluid? Should I use Honda brand steering fluid or just buy some power steering fluid from a auto parts store? Any advise (preferably from a mechanic) would be appreciated.

Answer 1

I am not a mechanic, but, without delay, I would flush, not just drain your Honda's power steering!

Brake fluid is engineered to operate at high pressure, high temperature in a sealed system. When exposed to the air it draws water like a sponge and is not a very good lubricant. As I remember brake fluid has an alcohol base.

Power steering fluid circulates through the hydraulic section of the steering acting as both a lubricant for the pump and valves as well as an actuator. As I remember, power steering fluid has a mineral oil base.

These fluids are designed to do a specific task in a specific environment. Brake fluid will harm your very expensive Honda power steering. Incidentally, Honda is very particular about using its own power steering fluid. Do not wait.

Answer 2

You will need to drain your power steering fluid and replace with the correct fluid. while brake fluid has a higher brun temperature it is not as smooth as power steering fluid needs to be. Spend the money to have a mechanic replace it all now as opposed to having to replace the unit itself shortly.

Answer 3

Drain the brake fluid, it will soften the seals in the pump. The quicker you drain and refill with proper fluid the better off you will be.

Answer 4

Drain and refill . Go with o.e.m. recondemnation.For instance , Diamond Stars (Eclispe,Avenger ) use Dextron ll ATF.Some G.M.use Pwr.Str. fluid. Over a period of time brake fluid absorbs water,can freeze if your in a cold climate.

Answer 5

athough I am not a mechanic, i do know a lot about cars your car should be fine. Although not ideal for this application, brake and PS fluid is about the same viscosity and if there wasn't a massive amount in there it should be fine.

Answer 6

We had an employee who accidentally did the reverse. He poured transmission fluid in the brakes. The transmission fluid will burn at brake temperatures and cause carbon deposits and brake failure. Before that happened though, something else happened more relevant to you. the brake fluid reacted with all the rubber seals and caused them to expand exponentially. I would expect the same adverse reaction in reverse.