Can I put water instead of power steering fluid?

Under no circumstances should water be used as a substitute for power steering fluid, as the power steering system requires specialized hydraulic fluid to transmit pressure and lubricate components. Power steering fluid possesses specific viscosity, anti-wear, and anti-oxidation properties, whereas water can cause corrosion of metal components and swelling failure of rubber seals. While automatic transmission fluid (ATF) may serve as a temporary emergency substitute in certain situations, long-term use requires power steering fluid that meets the manufacturer's specifications. For instance, Perodua vehicles recommend fluids meeting the Dexron III standard, while some Proton models specify Pentosin CHF 11S synthetic fluid. It is advisable to replace the power steering fluid every two years or 30,000 kilometres. Immediate servicing is required if the fluid appears cloudy, emits a burnt odor, or if the steering wheel becomes heavy. Note that oil specification requirements vary significantly across different vehicle makes and models. Mixing incompatible fluids may cause steering noise or power assist failure. During fluid replacement, ensure complete drainage of the old fluid and prevent air from entering the system.