Questions and Answers

Pontiac Trans Sport P/S And A/T Fluids Q. Hello Mr. Ciulla, A month ago the automatic transmission fluid in my sister's van was a half-quart low. In topping it off, I accidentally added 8 to 10 ounces of power steering fluid before noticing my mistake. I finished the job with Dexron II. A subsequent highway trip and extensive town driving have so far revealed no ill effects. Am I just asking for trouble by leaving everything as-is? 1990 Pontiac Trans Sport van 3.1 liter V-6 Automatic transaxle 102,667 miles Fuel injection ABS brakes -- no P/S, A/C, Cruise control Thank you. Sincerely, Tim Davenport, IA

A. No worries Tim, power steering fluid and automatic transmission fluid are both hydraulic fluids. In fact, ATF is often used to fill power steering systems. In any case, 8 to 10 ounces of power steering fluid is not going to hurt your transmission.