Power steering fluid

[Pretty Mouth]

Hi,

My power steering fluid needs topping up.  It's a 2015 enterprise van, 1.6 HDi 90 66kW.  I have checked on the Total Energies website, and the recommended fluid is FLUIDMATIC DVI MV ATF, which doesn't seem to be readily available to buy in sensible quantities.

Is there an alternative I can use?  The blurb says that it is 'Approved DEXRON VI', whatever that means.

[Sol]

Dexron VI is the standard it meets. Have never had to top any of mine up, but not sure it's a good plan to mix different ones, surely you only need a small amount. The reservoir isn't huge?

[Pretty Mouth]

Thanks for the reply Zion.

Yes, the reservoir seems small, I wouldn't need much at all to top it up, perhaps 100ml or so. I could only buy it in something like 20L quantities , which is way too much (though having searched again, I can't even find that now).

Do you think it would be smarter to fully drain what fluid remains, and replace with something else?

[Sol]

Oh jeez I see what you mean, 20L is way too much for anyone. It is possible that all Dexron VI are compatible, I just don't trust the multitude of different, confusing kinds available for all motor fluids. Why can't they just make it clear to all what works with what.

I was sure I had the sheet from Citroen with all the correct fluids for the B9, I have to dig it out. I guess draining would work but it's a faff...is it leaking?

Edit: I have all fluids listed except the power steering fluid.

Edit 2: its Total Fluide DA.

https://www.autodoc.co.uk/total/13626328...X8QAvD_BwE

[Sol]

Here's the drain and refill procedure

[Pretty Mouth]

Here's the drain and refill procedure

Thanks for your help with this Zion, and thanks for these instructions.  You've been super helpful.

I searched again on the Total Energies site, and it does offer alternatives (I should have paid more attention 1st time round), including Fluidmatic XLD FE, available in 1 litre bottles from the vendor you linked to above.  Having owned the van for less than a year, I can't say with 100% certainty what's already in there, so I think it's best I drain fully and refill.

I'll update to let you know how it goes.

[Vlad]

I recently had the same dilema on my M59. No leaks anywhere but fluid a little low after 17yrs ownership from new. I paid a visit to my regular mechanic and bunged him a fiver for topping up. Worth a try local to you, if you buy even 1/2 litre you are never going to need it again.
Vlad

[Sol]

Here's the drain and refill procedure

Thanks for your help with this Zion, and thanks for these instructions.  You've been super helpful.

I searched again on the Total Energies site, and it does offer alternatives (I should have paid more attention 1st time round), including Fluidmatic XLD FE, available in 1 litre bottles from the vendor you linked to above.  Having owned the van for less than a year, I can't say with 100% certainty what's already in there, so I think it's best I drain fully and refill.

I'll update to let you know how it goes.

Perfect, hope you get it resolved.

[John Bilko]

I recently had the same dilemma on my M59. No leaks anywhere but fluid a little low after 17yrs ownership from new. I paid a visit to my regular mechanic and bunged him a fiver for topping up. Worth a try local to you, if you buy even 1/2 litre you are never going to need it again.
Vlad

Sounds like a good idea - do you know what went in?

I tend not to worry as long as it meets the rating, which in this case is Dexron 6, as to me they are all the same.

[Vlad]

Hi John. If the mechanic is reputable/well established, he should have a selection of fluids. Sorry, I did'nt ask what mine needed as I have known my guy for 30 years, so I know he will have put the corrct spec. in.