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I have a 2011 Mazda3 and the power steering fluid reservoir is nearly empty. I was hoping to buy a bottle of something and just pour it into the reservoir. The user manual says to use "Mazda Genuine ATF M-III, M-V, or equivalent (e.g. Dexron II)", but I am confused because I don't know how to choose, nor do I know how to determine which of the products I could buy at Advance would be compatible, nor do I know if it's important to make sure I put in only the same exact kind of fluid that's already in there.

Looking for advice on what to buy and whether me topping it off is a good idea. Also generally curious what a mechanic would do if I took it to a shop (would they do a fluid exchange or just top it off, and in either case, what would they likely put in).

Update: I'm looking for an answer based on first principles and foundational knowledge, with reasons.

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  • If there is any aspect of first principles or foundational knowledge that seems missing after reading all answers below, you should clearly state what additional info you're after, and someone here will be happy to expand on their answer or make a new answer. Commented 1 hour ago

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If picking the right power steering fluid is giving you anxiety, you could always go to a Mazda dealer, bring your VIN, and ask for the right fluid. But be prepared to pay 3x more than necessary.

To pick the right fluid in a retail store, bring your Mazda manual and start reading labels on the available brands of power steering fluid in the store. If you find one that says "Compatible with Mazda ATF M-III or M-V" then that will work fine.

Otherwise, pick an automatic transmission fluid (ATF) that says "Dexron II" on the label. There are many available everywhere. Your manual says that works too. Power steering fluid and automatic transmission fluid are very similar and as long as you use a compatible type, they are equivalent.

Regarding topping off, yes, you should, up to the proper line. You may see two different lines, one for hot and one for cold. Cold means you have not started the engine yet that day. Hot means that you just shut off the engine after driving.

If you ask a mechanic to top off your fluid, that's all they will do. They may try to sell you a much more expensive fluid exchange, but that is generally not necessary unless the power steering fluid is contaminated, burned, or otherwise not suitable for the car.

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Many oil and fluid manufacturers have tools on their websites that show you the correct version of their product to use for your make, model, and year of car.

For example the Castrol product for a 2011 Mazda 3 2lt DOHC is this one (obviously, these sites only show their products, not all available brands).

Some auto supply stores also have a book or tablet inside where you can look this up too.

(Note: you probably already know this, but power steering fluid is meant to be in a closed system and not disappear. You may have a leak somewhere.)

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