Brake Fluid and Moisture. Brake fluid shelf life is directly related to the amount of moisture it’s exposed to after the bottle has been opened. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means it attracts and absorbs water from the surrounding atmosphere. The more water that it absorbs, the less effective it becomes when introduced into your vehicle
The power steering pump produces high pressures (between 800 - 2,000 lbs./400 - 1,000 kg, depending on model) and high heat. Heat + pressure = fluid breakdown/failure; fluid failure = power steering pump and/or rack failure; power steering pump and/or rack failure = costly repair. [/FONT] Nothing will happen to the car if you overfill the power steering fluid, but it is still possible to damage it. When steering fluid heats up, it will expand and will spill all over your engine compartment. In addition, the spilled power steering fluid can get to the belts and damage them when they get slippery. I was stranded for two days in wyoming because the dealer had to order the right stuff. Considering the steering rack, fan, and pumps are over a $1000 in parts two days waiting for the right fluid made sense. No aftermarket power steering fluid works. Although I thought I read somewhere maybe hydraulic fluid for a tractor might work.Fluid from the Steering Rack Leak. Another symptom is a leaking steering fluid. If you notice that you have to constantly top off your steering fluid, chances are, it is dripping at the wrong places (check the ground for traces). Remember not to confuse the steering fluid with other fluids in your car. It’s the one that’s pinkish red.