Can AutoZone check my power steering?

Yes—but only in a limited way. Most AutoZone stores can help you verify the correct power-steering fluid, point out the reservoir, and visually check fluid level or obvious leaks with you. They do not perform full steering diagnostics, pressure tests, bleeding, or repairs. Below, we explain what help to expect at the parts counter, how to quickly check your system yourself, and when to head straight to a mechanic.

What AutoZone will and won’t check

AutoZone is a retail parts store, not a repair shop. Associates can provide basic, courtesy assistance related to fluids and parts identification. This list outlines the kinds of help you can typically get in-store or in the parking lot.

• Show you the power-steering reservoir location (if equipped) and how to read its dipstick/level marks.
• Help you identify the correct fluid (power-steering fluid, ATF, or CHF) specified for your vehicle.
• Visually spot obvious leaks (wet hoses, pump, or rack area) and point you to likely replacement parts.
• Explain stop-leak products and fluid top-off best practices, if appropriate for a temporary fix.
• Provide Loan-A-Tool options (e.g., power-steering pump pulley tools, vacuum pumps for bleeding on some systems).
• Recycle used fluids and sell spill kits, shop towels, and UV dye/leak detection kits.

Policies vary by location and liability rules: associates typically won’t open caps, add fluid, or perform any mechanical work. Expect guidance and parts support—not hands-on service.

Equally important is what AutoZone does not do for steering systems. The following list captures those boundaries so you know when professional service is necessary.

• No pressure testing of the pump, lines, or steering rack.
• No bleeding procedures or repairs (hoses, pumps, racks, belts, or alignments).
• No road testing, noise diagnostics, or steering wheel centering.
• No calibration of steering angle sensors or electronic power steering (EPS) units.
• No comprehensive scanning of EPS/ABS/SRS modules; the free “Fix Finder” scan is primarily for engine (OBD-II) codes.
• No warranty or labor on installed parts since they do not perform installations.

If your concern involves steering performance, noises under load, persistent fluid loss, or warning lights, you’ll need a qualified technician. AutoZone can still help you source parts and tools once you have a diagnosis.

How to do a quick power-steering check yourself in the parking lot

If you want to assess the basics on-site, you can perform a quick check safely with the right steps. The list below is designed for both hydraulic systems (with fluid) and vehicles with electric power steering (EPS, no fluid).

1. Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and let the engine cool enough to handle caps safely.
2. Locate the reservoir: look for a cap labeled “Power Steering” or consult the owner’s manual. Note whether the dipstick reads “HOT” and “COLD,” and follow the temperature-specific markings.
3. Confirm the correct fluid type for your vehicle (some require ATF or CHF, not generic PSF). Never mix types unless the manual allows it.
4. Check fluid level: remove and wipe the dipstick, reinsert, then read per instructions on the cap. If no dipstick, inspect the translucent reservoir’s min/max lines.
5. Inspect fluid condition: healthy fluid is typically clear to amber or light red (depending on type). Dark, burnt, or metallic-looking fluid suggests overdue service or internal wear.
6. Scan for leaks: look around the pump, reservoir, hoses, fittings, and the steering rack/boots. Fresh, oily wetness or drips indicate a leak source.
7. Check the drive belt (if your pump is belt-driven): look for cracks, glazing, fraying, or slack.
8. Start the engine, turn the wheel slowly lock-to-lock a couple of times, and listen. Whining, groaning, or foamy fluid points to low fluid, aeration, or pump wear. Don’t hold at full lock more than a second or two.
9. If fluid is low, add only the manufacturer-specified fluid in small increments, rechecking the level to avoid overfill. Wipe any spills immediately.
10. If you have EPS (no fluid reservoir), check for a steering warning light and consider a charging system test—low voltage or a weak battery can trigger EPS faults.

This quick check can confirm simple issues like low fluid or a belt problem and may help you decide whether to drive, top off, or tow to a shop. Never operate the vehicle with an empty reservoir—doing so can rapidly damage the pump.

When to skip AutoZone and see a mechanic

Some symptoms indicate likely component failure or safety risks and warrant professional diagnosis and repair. Use the list below to judge urgency.

• Fluid level repeatedly drops or you see red/brown puddles under the car.
• Steering is heavy, intermittent, or jerks—especially at low speeds or during parking.
• Loud whining/groaning that rises with engine speed, or a burnt-fluid smell.
• Foamy fluid or visible metal flakes in the reservoir.

• Wet steering rack boots or fluid flung around the engine bay (belt area).
• Smoke or belt squeal near the power-steering pump pulley.
• EPS warning light on the dash, or loss of assist without a fluid reservoir present.

Expect repair costs to vary widely by vehicle and region: hoses often run a few hundred dollars installed, pumps commonly range from roughly $350–$800 installed, and rack-and-pinion replacements can exceed $900–$2,200. A fluid service/flush, when appropriate, is typically far less but won’t fix active leaks.

Related free help AutoZone offers

Even though they don’t repair steering systems, AutoZone’s free services can support your troubleshooting—especially on vehicles with electronic assist.

• Battery and charging system testing: low voltage can trigger EPS issues and steering warnings.
• OBD-II code scan (Fix Finder) for engine-related codes; some stores can scan ABS at their discretion—call ahead.
• Loan-A-Tool program for jobs like pump replacement (pulley puller/installer) or vacuum bleeding tools where applicable.
• Fluid recycling, UV leak detection dye, and work-safe supplies (gloves, absorbents).
• Free online repair guides (with an AutoZone account) to reference torque specs and procedures.

Calling your local store before you go can confirm which tools and scanners are available and what in-vehicle assistance their policy allows.

Smart questions to ask at the counter

A few targeted questions can save time and prevent mistakes, especially if you’re unsure about fluid requirements or bleeding procedures.

• Which fluid does my VIN call for, and is mixing allowed if I’m topping off?
• Do you have UV dye and a compatible leak detection light, and is it in the Loan-A-Tool program?
• Is a pulley puller/installer available for my pump, and what’s the deposit policy?
• Where can I find the vehicle-specific bleeding or torque specs in your repair guides?
• Can you perform a battery/alternator test to rule out low voltage on EPS vehicles?

With the right parts and guidance, you can often confirm basics in the lot and decide whether a DIY fix is realistic—or if professional service is the safer route.

Bottom line

AutoZone can assist with identifying the correct fluid, showing you where to check it, spotting obvious leaks, and providing tools and testing that support basic troubleshooting. They don’t diagnose or repair steering systems. If your steering is noisy, heavy, or leaking, use AutoZone for parts, tools, and preliminary checks—then schedule a mechanic for pressure testing, bleeding, or component replacement as needed.

Summary

AutoZone can help you verify power-steering fluid and point out obvious issues, but they don’t perform full steering diagnostics or repairs. Use their free services and tools to check levels, look for leaks, and test your battery/charging system—especially on EPS cars—and seek a qualified shop for persistent leaks, noise, warning lights, or loss of assist.