Hydraulic Filter (Hydraulic Oil Filter) for different automobiles
Your Hydraulic Filter (Hydraulic Oil Filter) worn out? » Read more about common malfunctions • Repair • Replacement manual
The Steering filter is part of the power steering. It serves to filter out suspended solids and foreign objects from the power steering hydraulic system. It is generally replaced whenever the hydraulic fluid is changed.
Power steering: Comfortable and safe driving
The power steering electro-hydraulically supports manual steering movements. In the power steering, a small pump permanently produces pressure on a hydraulic pipeline system. With the help of sensors and valves, this powers a linear cylinder that acts on the steering rack. The force from the pump is transferred via a hydraulic fluid, usually a special type of oil. The power steering pump is directly powered by the engine via a belt. That's why the power steering fails when the engine is switched off. If the car is rolling, the hydraulic pressure drops very quickly. As a result, the steering becomes very sluggish.
Function and position of the hydraulic filter
Aging, penetrating moisture and abrasion can increasingly contaminate this oil over time. These impurities must be kept away from the moving parts of the power steering pump. The hydraulic filter performs this task.
It is located in the hydraulic fluid reservoir and consists of a paper cartridge and a channel system for the oil. It is easily accessible and easy to replace.
Hydraulic filter defects
The steering filter filters a closed circuit. Depending on the vehicle, this hydraulic system may be used for several components. Older models of the Audi 100, for example, tried a combination of power steering, self-leveling suspension and brake support. The longer the cables in the system, the greater the risk of leaks. In addition to the leakage of hydraulic oil, dirt can also penetrate the system in this way. In the worst case, topping up using the wrong oil can cause flocculation. In normal cars, the steering filters are usually very durable. They must usually only be replaced twice over the life of a car. However, when it comes to construction and land vehicles as well as trucks, the filter is of much higher significance. A conscientious and regular replacement is very important for commercial vehicles and severely loaded vehicles.
Repairing hydraulic filters
The steering filter is located in the power steering fluid reservoir. It may be necessary to unscrew it, whereupon the supply line is disconnected and it can simply be removed from the compensating reservoir. Before inserting the new filter, the hydraulic fluid must be completely replaced and the entire system checked for leaks. Only once all seals have been replaced and the system has been drained completely, the fresh oil and new filter can be put to use. After refilling the hydraulic oil and replacing the filter, it is necessary to bleed the system. To do this, the steering wheel is moved all the way back and forth several times, while the compensation reservoir is open and the engine is running.
Buying a new hydraulic oil filter
Technically, the hydraulic oil filter is a simple component. Yet, as high-quality materials are necessary for its construction, prices begin at around 8 euro. Nonetheless, such prices are completely justified, provided the new filter was made by a well known brand.
