I have looked all over the forum and through the manuals but I can't seem to find out what type of power steering fluid I ahould put in the my S. Am I not supposed to top it off when it looks a little low? Right now it's on the lower of the two indents on the dip stick.

I would like to keep it filled.

Thanks for the help

David

 

When I looked on the PS fluid cap, there is a reference numnber. A BMW p/n do doubt. Suppose only a dealer could interput.

 

it takes pentosin fluid - CHF 11S spec (as marked on the cap).
For what it's worth, my wife's 2001 vw cabrio takes the
same spec fluid, so I share the vw/audi bottle I
bought for her car.

 

Here's a short write-up and URL:

* PENTOSIN CHF 11S is a special hydraulic fluid with an even more extended temperature range -40° C up to min. 130° C., within which perfect operating is guaranteed. Due to this fact Pentosin CHF 11S is especially suitable for a variety of hydraulic network and steerings of latest vehicle developments, where the applied fluid has a direct influence on safety and driving comfort. Pentosin CHF 11S guarantees a perfect operation of all hydraulic systems, such as power steering, rear axle steering, level control, hydropneumatic suspension, shock absorbers, active damping of engine fixtures, hydrostatic drive for fan, generator and air condition, stability and traction systems (ABS/ASR/ASC), electrohydraulic cabriolet top actuation, central locking systems etc. Pentosin CHF 11S is therefore not only used in many vehicles of well known automotive manufacturers, but also in engines of agricultural and other special vehicles. This fluid is especially suitable for operation in climate regions which are exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations, as well as in systems of reduced volumin and small construction part sizes.
* http://www.crpindustries.com/pentosin.htm

 

Did you get a reply about how to read the power steering fluid dipstick? I also noticed that my car has the fluid level closer to the lower indent on the stick. It's not labeled as "min/max" so I'm not sure what the levels represent.

By the way, I did find that tdiparts.com has Pentosin CHF 11S power steering fluid for $11 per liter (+ $8 shipping). It's the cheapest I've seen.