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Most cars manufactured today have power steering systems. Power steering fluid is necessary to ensure that this important system runs smoothly. The fluid does this by lubricating the components of the system. When the power steering fluid tank is full, the fluid is drawn into the system by a power steering pump. Sometimes, however, this fluid can overflow. This is a serious problem that can be caused by a few different factors.
Overfilling
Overfilling is the most obvious cause of overflowing power steering fluid. Without being able to see into the tank, you can easily pour too much fluid in. If this occurs, the fluid could spill out of the top of the tank. This could result in damage to both the power steering system as well as other components of the car.
Trapped Air
Overflowing power steering fluid can be cause by air trapped in the power steering system. When air becomes trapped in the system, bubbles form. As bubbles form, they push against the fluid. If enough air is trapped in the system, the steering fluid could be pushed out. This would require a complete flushing of the power steering fluid.
Tank Pressure
Power steering overflow can also result when pressure in the tank is too high. This is often the result of a faulty power steering pump. The pump is powered by a belt and pulley connected to the engine. Inside of this are small fins that spin inside. As these fins spin, they pull fluid into the power steering system. The pump contains a device that regulates the pressure of the fluid as it flows into the system. If the pump malfunctions and pressure climbs too high, this can easily manifest as an overflowing power steering fluid tank.
