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How to Check and Fill Jeep Power Steering Fluid: Wrangler JL & Gladiator JT

  • Writer: Muddy Ruttzz
    Muddy Ruttzz
  • Jan 14
  • 6 min read

Updated: Jan 19

Understanding the Importance of Jeep Power Steering Fluid Maintenance

We’ve all heard that "lifetime fluid" talk, but honestly? It’s a total myth. Way too many folks overlook their power steering fluid until it’s too late. Whether you're rocking a Wrangler JL or a Gladiator JT, that electro-hydraulic setup is pretty sensitive—and let me tell you, it is not cheap to replace. Most guys wait until they hear that nasty whining sound coming from the pump to finally pop the cap, but by then, you’re already looking at potential damage. It’s way better to just stay on top of it now while we’re hanging out in the garage.

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Power steering fluid reservoir and Pentosin fluid can in a Jeep engine bay. Muddy Ruttzz technical guide image.
Looking for the best power steering fluid? Pentosin is a premium German synthetic fluid built to handle the extreme operating conditions of modern electro-hydraulic steering pumps. What is electro-hydraulic steering?

The Correct Fluid Spec: Why MS-11655 Matters

My local parts store did not have a MS-11655 fluid and they tried to tell me the universal was ok to use. It is not ok, use the proper fluid.

In the old days, power steering was easy: a belt, a pump, and some ATF. Today’s Jeeps use electro-hydraulic systems that generate massive heat, requiring specialized stuff like Pentosin CHF 11S. While the bottle says it’s a 'lifetime' fluid, I’m skeptical. I just had to top off both of my Jeeps because they were below the minimum mark. It begs the question—if this stuff is meant to last forever, where is it going?

Pro Tip:

If your Jeep has disappearing power steering fluid syndrome it could be a lot of things but check these:

  1. If you have the old style aluminum gearbox instead of the upgraded steel check it for leaks.

  2. Check the plastic reservoir seals.

  3. If there is no puddle of fluid on your garage floor check the rubber accordion boots of the steering gear.


WARNING! Engine Must Be Cold When Checking, Filling or Flushing Power Steering Fluid

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check Your Fluid Level

Servicing Jeep power steering fluid with a manual extractor pump at Muddy Ruttzz.
Having a super sucker automotive extractor pump in your shop is a super handy but it's a necessity for servicing fluid in the power steering pump.

Step 1 - Gather The Needed Tools

  1. You will need a hydraulic fluid that meets or exceeds the Chrysler MS-11655 specification like Pentosin CHF 11s.

  2. Automotive Fluid Extractor Pump like this Kuntech 500CC Fluid Extractor.

  3. A Funnel that fits nicely in the resevoir opening - find one here.

  4. Shop Rags, - I keep a variety at hand, see them here on Amazon.


Using fluid extractor to sample Jeep Power Steering Fluid Muddy Ruttzz Studio garage.
Extracting a sample of Power Steering Fluid to check it's condition.

Step 2 - What Is The Condition Of Your Power Steering Fluid?

  1. Wipe off the power steering pump reservoir to prevent contamination, remove cap and visually inspect the fluids color.

  2. Extract a sample of fluid (I squirt a little on a piece of cardboard) give it a visual and smell test.

  3. I put a little fresh fluid on the cardboard to compare it with the fluid I extracted.

Muddy Ruttzz pours Jeep power steering fluid onto cardboard to examine its condition.

Step 3 - Your Fluid Is Good Go Ahead And Add Some To The Max Line

  1. Start with a fresh can of MS-11655 spec fluid or a open can that has been sealed properly.

  2. Using a funnel can prevent making a big mess of fluid and add the required amount.

Muddy Ruttzz pours Jeep power steering fluid into reservoir in engine bay.
I always clean my funnel with IPA (alchohol) to make sure I don't contaminate my fluid.

Step 4: Your Fluid Is Contaminated - Burnt - Smells Bad - Time For A Fluid Dilution And Fill

If your fluid is not in bad condition or you just want to change it for peace of mind you can simply use the dilute method and that is what is required most of the time. That is pretty easy procedure. I detail the dilute method below.

  1. Extract as much fluid using your fluid extractor as possible.

  2. Lift the front wheels off the ground a slight amount.

  3. Have a assistant turn the steering wheel lock to lock while the engine is running and add fluid to remove air.

What to Do if You Need a Full Power Steering Flush

You can try a complete flush to but your system may have a terminal condition. If your fluid is really bad, loaded with debri or super contaminated your going to have to do a Flush & Fill. That involves disconnecting the low pressure line, allowing the engine to run while keeping the reservoir full and collecting the fluid. A little more difficult procedure but you might other issues with your Power Steering System. You might actually need to replace some parts and that is a bigger deal. Here is how to do a major flush and fill:

  1. Disconnect the low pressure return line from the fluid reservoir.

  2. Lift the front wheels slightly off the ground and have.

  3. With engine running and assistant turning the wheel lock to lock collect fluid as it comes out of low pressure line.

  4. Continuously add fluid until it's clean and fresh.

  5. Reconnect low pressure line.


Mudddy Ruttzz Checking Jeep Power Steering Fluid level in reservoir with flashlight.
Nice trick for seeing fill lines on Power Steering, Brake Fluid And Coolant Reservoirs.

PRO TIP: Light Up The Reservoir With A Flash Light

The plastic reservoirs on these Jeeps can be incredibly difficult to see through. A great pro tip is to shine a bright LED flashlight directly into the opening of the reservoir. This illuminates the fluid from the inside, making the "Max Cold" line clearly visible through the side of the tank.


Conclusion:

Checking your Jeep power steering fluid is a simple DIY task that can save you from a major mechanical headache down the road. Whether you are daily driving your Gladiator or taking your Wrangler into the rocks, staying on top of these "lifetime" fluids is what keeps a Muddy Ruttzz rig on the trail for years to come. Don't let a simple maintenance item turn into an expensive shop visit.


Are you ready to tackle more Jeep DIY?

If you found this guide helpful, make sure to watch the full step-by-step tutorial on the Muddy Ruttzz YouTube Channel. Don't forget to subscribe for more EcoDiesel maintenance tips and off-road adventures from our new studio in Las Cruces!


Check out my links in the merch section to purchase products you have seen in this article and more helpful tools and stuff.

Affiliate Disclosure

Note: By using the links in this article, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support the Muddy Ruttzz studio and help me keep the desert adventures coming!


Merch Section

Amazon Shopping

✅ - Pentosin CHF 11S meets Chrysler MS-11655 Spec https://amzn.to/4pI6wKJ (Amazon)

✅ - Power Steering Fluid https://amzn.to/49EiO0G. (Amazon)

✅ - Funnels (all different types) https://amzn.to/4pB1AqR. (Amazon)

✅ - Shop Rags https://amzn.to/4jEAX2V (Amazon)

✅ - Use this link to purchase anything on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3K8Idqy - (Amazon)

✅ - Dana Performance Diff Cover Wrangler JL Gladiator JT - https://ebay.us/DlpfWm

✅ - Amasoil 75-90 Differential Fluid - https://ebay.us/jW9jka  (eBay)

✅ - Reinzosil Universal RTV - https://ebay.us/dv3vWr   (eBay)


Smiling man sitting in car holding on to steering wheel. Car is yellow color and door is open. Grass is visible on the other side of the car. There is also add for ebay Motors.
Click Here To Find Parts On Ebay Motors!

✅ - Zarges Aluminum Cases - Best Made Overlanding Storage Cases. When you require the best protection for you gear. Bear Resitant available. (Zarges)


Stacked Zarges Aluminum Cases sitting next to a Jeep Gladiator.
Zarges Aluminum Cases

✅ - MERCH Availabe on Spreadshop - Awesome Original Design Shirts and Merch - Muddy Ruttzz Clothing.

Click Here to See my Zarges Blogpost.

Affiliate Disclosure

As a Amazon Affiliate and Ebay Partner I receive a commission if you use my links to make a qualifying purchase. It does not raise the price you pay.






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