Numpty jeep maintenence question!

[sawman]

I had occasion to drive the wifes jeep cherokee yesterday, and the steering seemed heavier than i remembered. So today I note that the tyres are a little soft, but also the steering fluid is at the min cold level. I also note that the reservoir is covered with a layer of oily grime.

I dont think I have ever looked closely at a steering fluid reservoir before, but the contents of the res is black and tarry - is this what jeep steering fluid it like or has it gone off! I checked my subaru for comparison, and tbh you cant see inside the res so well but it looks lighter through the plastic.

I guess I need to determine if Ive just lost a bit of fluid or whether some larger issue is at play?

cheers for advice

[chryslerben]

Should be atf +4 in a Cherokee its red from new but will discoloured in time

[sawman]

So If its black should I empty the res and refil with new, or just top up a bit? its a KJ cherokee btw