What steering fluid to use?

AlanS · Post by **AlanS** » 16 Aug 2025, 18:48

2006 xc70...needs to have the steering fluid topped up, but I thought I would dump the old stuff and refill. Doing a search reveals confusion as to which fluid to use. Anyone have a definite answer to this?

Post by **cn90** » 16 Aug 2025, 19:33

Search forum for the debate between ATF and Pentosin.

Post by **Krons** » 16 Aug 2025, 20:21

If I recall right there were two types of steering racks (with two fluids). Does your operators manual give a definite answer?

Post by **scot850** » 16 Aug 2025, 23:58

I'm currently running Pentosin CHF-202. Originally it was on CHF-11S on our 06 XC70 and also in my 2000 V70R. Volvo has updated the fluid they supply which is basically this transition.

Neil.

Post by **abscate** » 17 Aug 2025, 11:38

I use the pentosin in the P2s and Valvoline DexVI in the p80power steering systems

Post by **erikv11** » 17 Aug 2025, 14:13

I also use Pentosin, CHF-11S or CHF-202 (see scot850 post). Pentosin is very likely what was in there. If you can tell its' not ATF i.e. not pink, then it is reasonable to do the partial changeout with the same fluid i.e. Pentosin.

There are many other fluid options but using Pentosin means that you and everyone else down the road who may see the car, knows what's in there without sleuthing it out.

Post by **850 LPT** » 17 Aug 2025, 14:27

I also use the Pentosin CHF-11S or CHF-202, whichever is available. They are interchangeable.

Post by **MoVolvos** » 17 Aug 2025, 14:35

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Since I have quite a few makes, models and years ranging from 00 to 2020 (not use in 2020 yet) I've decided to just use ATF. Either the Swepco 714 20W (best additive package) or when available the Havoline Multi Vehicle Synthetic ATF. Have gone through 4 cases of Havoline at 12 per due to transmission flushes. Even have the Havoline in the 03 Odyssey with 257K miles which is considered a death sentence but it's been working just fine. I have also mixed with no issues. Finally, finished a case of Wolf's Head about a year ago, good stuff also.
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Havoline Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF
https://www.amazon.com/HAVOLINE-2265367 ... LXF34?th=1

Swepco 714 Hydraulic Transmission Fluid Type TO-4/C-4 20wt. Gal.
https://www.amazon.com/Hydraulic-Transm ... 136&sr=1-1

Wolf's Head Super Universal Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (836-92866-56) 1 Quart Bottle, Pack of 12
https://www.amazon.com/Wolfs-Head-Unive ... hdGY&psc=1
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