2000 Ford Focus Mixed Fluids

2000 FORD FOCUS
100,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
HEHOO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I inadvertently added a small amount of brake fluid to the power steering reservoir. What are the potential consequences of this mistake ? I removed some of the liquid from the top with a baster within about 15 min. of my mistake, before the engine had been started.
Oct 1, 2015 at 5:27 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
If you emptied the reservoir before you started the engine, it should be fine.
Oct 1, 2015 at 5:44 PM
Avatar
HEHOO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I did not totally empty the reservoir. I only took away an amount equivalent to slightly more than I erroneously added, in the hope that they had not mixed. The car has since been started and driven a few KM.
Oct 2, 2015 at 12:48 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Chances are it should be fine. If you are concerned, you could have the PS system serviced. Basically, all the fluid is removed and replaced with new.
Oct 4, 2015 at 7:27 PM
Avatar
HEHOO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I have since completely emptied the reservoir only and re-filled it. My concern is, is the small amount of brake fluid the may have mixed with the normal fluid ( ATF ), going to damage or destroy any of the seals of components in the power-steering system. Thanks.
Oct 5, 2015 at 5:39 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
It shouldn't.
Oct 8, 2015 at 8:26 PM
Avatar
HEHOO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
thank you for the advice re my mixed up fluids problem. You have put my mind at ease.
Oct 9, 2015 at 12:24 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Glad to help.
Oct 12, 2015 at 5:11 PM