Power Steering Service

Service the power steering system by draining and replacing the power steering fluid, inspecting hoses and connections, and bleeding air from the system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering pressure line O-ring × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 2.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool to ambient temperature
3. Raise front of vehicle with jack and support securely on jack stands
4. Turn steering wheel fully left and right several times to bring fluid temperature to normal
5. Place drain pan beneath power steering pump and reservoir area

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove old fluid from reservoir
   Locate the power steering fluid reservoir on the driver side of the engine bay. Remove the reservoir cap. Using a fluid transfer pump or turkey baster, extract as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir. Dispose of old fluid properly in a sealed container.
2. 2

   Disconnect power steering return hose
   Identify the low-pressure return hose connected to the bottom of the power steering reservoir. Place drain pan directly underneath. Loosen the hose clamp and carefully slide the return hose off the reservoir nipple. Allow remaining fluid to drain into pan. The return hose is the larger diameter hose without a threaded fitting.
3. 3

   Flush remaining fluid from system
   With the return hose disconnected and directed into the drain pan, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 10-15 times. Do NOT start the engine. This will push old fluid out through the return line via the steering gear. Continue until fluid coming out runs clear or significantly lighter in color.
4. 4

   Inspect hoses and connections
   With fluid drained, inspect all power steering hoses for cracks, bulging, or seepage. Check the pressure line fitting at the pump for signs of leakage. Inspect the reservoir for cracks. If pressure line shows signs of leakage, disconnect using a line wrench and replace the O-ring before reconnecting.
   Torque spec

   Pressure Line Fitting34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Reconnect return hose
   Slide the return hose back onto the reservoir nipple, ensuring it is fully seated. Position the hose clamp over the connection point and tighten securely. Verify the hose is routed properly without kinks or contact with hot engine components.
6. 6

   Refill power steering reservoir
   Using a funnel, pour fresh Mopar power steering fluid (meeting MS-5931 / MS-9602 specification) into the power steering reservoir until the level reaches the COLD MAX mark on the dipstick or reservoir body. Do not overfill. Replace the reservoir cap loosely.
7. 7

   Bleed air from system - initial cycling
   With the engine OFF, turn the steering wheel slowly from full left to full right lock 15-20 times. Pause at each lock for 2-3 seconds. Check fluid level frequently and add fluid as needed to maintain level at COLD MAX mark. Continue until no more bubbles appear in the reservoir.
8. 8

   Bleed air from system - engine running
   Start the engine and let idle. Turn steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 10 times, holding at each lock for 2-3 seconds. Check for fluid leaks at all connections. Monitor fluid level and top off as needed. Fluid level will drop as air is purged from the system.
   ⚠Do not hold steering at full lock for more than 5 seconds while engine is running as this can overheat the pump.
9. 9

   Final fluid level check
   With engine at idle and wheels straight, check fluid level. It should be between the MIN and MAX marks for hot fluid. Add fluid if needed to bring to proper level. Tighten reservoir cap securely. Turn off engine.
10. 10

    Lower vehicle and final verification
    Lower vehicle from jack stands. Start engine and verify smooth power steering operation with no whining or groaning noises. Check all connections for leaks. Take vehicle for short test drive, turning steering wheel through full range of motion. Recheck fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts183 Nm (135 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all hose connections are tight and properly secured with clamps
2. Verify power steering reservoir cap is installed and tight
3. Clean any spilled power steering fluid from engine bay and undercarriage

Verification

• Fluid level is at proper mark on reservoir (COLD when cold, HOT when at operating temperature)
• No leaks visible at reservoir, hoses, pump, or steering gear connections
• Steering wheel turns smoothly without excessive effort or noise
• No whining, groaning, or cavitation sounds from power steering pump during operation
• Steering returns to center properly after turns
• Recheck fluid level after 50-100 miles of driving and top off if necessary

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