Power Steering Fluid Flush

This procedure removes old power steering fluid from the system and replaces it with fresh fluid to maintain proper steering function and prevent component wear.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Shop rags × 5 — Use clean lint-free rags

Fluids

• Power steering fluid (Type A or Dexron automatic transmission fluid) — 3 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
4. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands
5. Locate power steering reservoir on passenger side of engine bay
6. Locate power steering pump return hose connection at reservoir

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove old fluid from reservoir
   Remove the power steering reservoir cap. Use a turkey baster or fluid transfer pump to extract as much fluid as possible from the reservoir. Dispose of old fluid in appropriate container. Continue extracting until reservoir is as empty as possible.
2. 2

   Fill with fresh fluid
   Using a funnel, fill the power steering reservoir with fresh Type A or Dexron ATF to the FULL COLD mark on the dipstick. Replace the reservoir cap.
3. 3

   Cycle steering lock-to-lock
   Without starting the engine, turn the steering wheel slowly from full left to full right lock approximately 10 times. This helps work fresh fluid through the system and pushes old fluid back to the reservoir.
4. 4

   Extract contaminated fluid again
   Remove reservoir cap and extract the now-contaminated fluid from the reservoir using the turkey baster or pump. The fluid will appear darker as old fluid mixes with new. Empty the reservoir as completely as possible.
5. 5

   Refill and repeat cycling process
   Refill reservoir to FULL COLD mark with fresh fluid. Repeat the lock-to-lock steering wheel cycling process 10 more times without starting the engine. Check fluid level and top off as needed.
6. 6

   Start engine and check operation
   Start the engine and let it idle. Check the fluid level, which will likely drop as the pump fills with fluid. Add fluid to bring level to FULL COLD mark. With engine idling, slowly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock 5 times, pausing briefly at each extreme.
7. 7

   Check for leaks and air bubbles
   Inspect all power steering connections, hoses, and pump for leaks. Check fluid in reservoir for excessive foaming or air bubbles, which indicates air in the system. If bubbles are present, continue cycling steering and let engine idle until bubbles dissipate.
8. 8

   Final fluid level adjustment
   With engine at operating temperature and idling, check the fluid level one final time. Fluid should be at the FULL HOT mark when warm. Add fluid as necessary to achieve proper level. Ensure reservoir cap is tight.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands
2. Remove wheel chocks
3. Wipe down any spilled fluid from engine bay and components

Verification

• Start engine and verify smooth, quiet power steering operation with no whining or groaning noises
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock and confirm consistent assist with no binding
• Check that fluid level remains at FULL HOT mark with engine warm
• Verify no leaks at reservoir, pump, hoses, or steering gear
• Confirm fluid appears clean and red/amber in color without excessive foaming
• Test drive vehicle and verify normal steering feel and response

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