Maintenance is key to long life for your vehicle-and here's the scoop on its replacement parts and fluids. Cars are vehicles, ...

It's important to follow your particular vehicle's maintenance schedule, but a general rule of thumb is to flush and replace the power steering fluid between about 40,000 and 80,000 miles.

The power-steering pump pressurizes the hydraulic fluid that helps the driver turn the steering wheel. Signs of steering-pump failure include leaks, noises or decreased assistance while steering.