Dumb power steering fluid question

Hello - I don't have a manual for my 1996 2.4. The power steering pump cap says to use Dextron trans fluid in my power steering. Guy at NAPA got me a bottle that says DEX/MERC. But when I went to top it up, the fluid is red and the fluid in the pump is yellow. What is going on? Is it just age turning it yellow?

A tiny bit got poured in the pump, is this going to be an issue?

Thanks.

 

Who ever top it off last used PS fluid

 

And the OEM toyota fluid has no coloring even though its dexron III

 

I've read you can mix ps fluid and Dextron online. Can you mix the two as long as neither are synthetic?

 

Why do you think they specify Dexron III as the fluid to use?? And what color is Dexron III?? Wonderful thing the owners manual...

 

I'm questioning you stating it has no color. My dealer must be selling the counterfeit type that's red in color

 

I see that you have a newer truck (2015) and I will say that in my '01, this is NOT true. The power steering fluid was indeed RED in color from the factory.

I would (as others have) question the "no coloring" assertion across the board.

@OP- agree that someone before you has incorrectly changed out out the fluid.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/factory-fill-power-steering-fluid-2015-4-0.477567/