What is the diffrence between ATF and power steering fluid? Is there any damage caused by using ps fluid instead of the required DEXRON ATF?

 

it is recommended you use dexron II or higher ATF, so just use ATF. If your going to a store to pick up power steering fluid, why not just pick up the ATF instead.

 

Some power steering units require certain additives not commonly found in ATF. As such, specialized PS fluids contain the additives. Honda and GM come immediately to mind as being very picky about their PS fluids. Nissan units do not require these additives and run happily on ATF (D-II) . I can't say for certain what the effects would be if you were to use off the shelf PS fluid in your unit, but I agree with sbddude...stick with either ATF or use Nissan power steering fluid if you feel the need.

For what it's worth, I have used AMSOIL synthetic ATF in my power steering units for years and have installed it in several customer's cars...the synthetic fluid reduces operating temperatures of the PS system contributing to component reliability, longevity and seal integrity.

 

Nissan PS fluid is better to regular DexronIII which the manual says could be a suitable substitute. I have used regular DexronIII in my PS for sometime and realized it isn't the same as Nissan PS fluid, steering was bit hard, morning goarns etc. I have since switched to DexronIII + 2 oz of Lubegard (capacity of PS is 2Quarts) and it works like a gem with nibble but effective steering.

Finally, my conclusion was Nissan PS is best for good steering!!!