Have a 1995 Volvo 850 GLT. My power steering is leaking. I had the rack and pinion replaced in 1999, but my mechanic says it needs to be replaced again. Can't afford it right now. But am confused about what I should use to fill power steering reservoir. Power steering fluid? Transmission fluid? (my mechanic says he uses Dexron 2 Transmission Fluid). My owner's manual specs "ATF." What the heck is ATF? Thanks!

Do not put Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) in your power steering reservoir. ATF is a lubricant for the internal parts of your transmission. Power steering fluid is part of a hydraulic system that makes it easier to turn the steering wheel. They are totally different fluids made to do totally different things and should not be exchanged.

Great, thanks! I bought both today but was really nervous about using either of them, so I'm very grateful for your reply! Do you know anything about this power steering fluid that claims to also stop leaks? The brand is Lucas. The guy at AutoZone kept trying to get me to buy it. I was afraid it might be some "band-aid" fix that makes things worse in the long-run, glomming up seals or whatever. Thanks again! Appreciate it!

If you have leaks in your power steering you really need to get them fixed. Otherwise you run the risk of a power steering failure which could create a dangerous situation. In terms of the Lucas products, they have a good reputation. I have used some of them in the past.

Thanks again. This is quite scary, actually, that the steering could go out. When I checked the reservoir this morning before getting into traffic, it was full. So maybe it's a slow leak? Still, when I'm making a sharp turn, not a shallow one, there is a dull vibrating sound and feel. Someone suggested that the CV boot might be bad, as well. I hope not. I had it in the shop a few weeks ago for routine maintenance when the steering issue was discovered. I'm hoping they would have noticed a broken CV boot then... Anyway, thanks again, I do appreciate your advice.