Parts for your 1998 Subaru Forester-Power steering fluid

1998 Subaru Forester Power-Steering Fluid

Based on technical references—including the 1998 Subaru Forester Owner’s Manual (Fluids and Maintenance section), the Subaru Service Manual (Steering, ST section), and common trade manuals (e.g., Haynes/Gregory’s for Forester/Impreza of the era)—the 1998 Forester uses a hydraulic power steering system that specifies automatic transmission fluid meeting Dexron II or Dexron III for the power-steering reservoir. So, power-steering fluid is absolutely relevant for this model (it is not an electric power steering setup).

On a ’98 Forester, power-steering fluid does more than just sit in the reservoir. It transfers hydraulic force so the steering feels light at the wheel, lubricates the pump and steering rack, and helps cool moving parts. Subaru specified ATF Dexron II/III for this system, which is why owners should avoid generic “power steering fluid” unless it explicitly meets that spec. Using the right fluid keeps the pump quiet, prevents shudder, and helps the rack seals live a long, drama-free life.

While Subaru didn’t publish a strict change interval for this vintage, most workshops in Australia and New Zealand treat PS fluid like any other service fluid—inspect every service and replace every 2 years or 40,000–60,000 km, especially if the fluid goes dark, smells burnt, or the steering grows noisy. A complete refresh typically takes around a litre, depending on how thoroughly it’s flushed. After a change, bleeding air is key: wheels off the ground, turn lock-to-lock slowly with the engine off to purge air, top up, then start the engine and repeat until bubbles disappear.

Classic Forester tip: if there’s persistent foaming or a cold-start groan, replace the pump inlet O-ring—these harden with age and let air sneak in. When topping up, keep the level between the HOT/COLD marks as indicated, depending on engine temperature, and don’t overfill. Steer clear of stop-leak additives unless it’s a true get-you-by, they can swell seals and mask underlying issues. Clean fluid, correct spec, and a tidy system check each service will keep the steering light, quiet, and reliable for years.

• Use ATF Dexron II/III, not generic fluid without that spec.
• Inspect level/colour each service, replace every 2 years or 40–60k km.
• Bleed thoroughly after changes, consider a new pump inlet O-ring if aeration persists.

Popular questions about 1998 Subaru Forester power-steering fluid

What fluid should go in a 1998 Forester’s power steering?
It takes automatic transmission fluid meeting Dexron II or Dexron III. That’s what Subaru specified in the Owner’s and Service Manuals. Avoid generic “power steering fluid” unless it clearly states Dexron compatibility, and skip seal-sweller additives unless it’s a temporary fix.

How often should the power-steering fluid be changed?
There’s no hard-and-fast factory interval for this model, but a practical approach is every 2 years or 40,000–60,000 km. If the fluid looks brown/black, smells burnt, or the steering moans or shudders, bring the change forward.

How do you bleed the power steering after a fluid change?
Raise the front wheels, engine off, and turn the wheel slowly lock-to-lock 15–20 times while topping up to the mark. Then start the engine and repeat until there are no bubbles or foam. If aeration continues, inspect the pump inlet O-ring and hose clamps for air leaks.