Power Steering Service

Drain and refill the power steering system with fresh Mopar ATF+4 fluid to maintain proper steering function and component longevity.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering reservoir cap O-ring × 1 — Mopar 52128695AA

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 1.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently driven
3. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands under the front subframe
4. Place drain pan under power steering pump and reservoir area

Procedure

1. 1

   Access and inspect power steering reservoir
   Locate the power steering fluid reservoir in the engine bay per the factory service manual for this vehicle. Remove the reservoir cap and inspect the fluid level and condition. Remove the reservoir cap and inspect the fluid level and condition. Dark or burnt-smelling fluid indicates the service is overdue. Check the cap O-ring for cracks or deterioration and replace if damaged.
2. 2

   Remove old fluid from reservoir
   Use a turkey baster or fluid transfer pump to extract as much fluid as possible from the reservoir. Transfer the old fluid to the drain pan. Continue extracting until the reservoir is as empty as possible without disassembling lines.
3. 3

   Locate and access return line
   From underneath the vehicle, identify the low-pressure return line that routes from the steering rack back to the reservoir. This is the smaller diameter line compared to the high-pressure line. The return line connects to the bottom or side of the reservoir with a hose clamp connection.
4. 4

   Disconnect return line at reservoir
   Position the drain pan directly under the reservoir connection point. Loosen the hose clamp securing the return line to the reservoir using pliers or a screwdriver. Pull the return line off the reservoir nipple and direct it into the drain pan. Allow all fluid to drain from the reservoir.
5. 5

   Drain steering system
   With the return line disconnected and directed into the drain pan, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 10-15 times. This pushes fluid from the steering rack and pump through the return line. Do not start the engine. Continue turning until no more fluid drains from the return line.
6. 6

   Reconnect return line
   Inspect the return line end for damage or deterioration. Reconnect the return line to the reservoir nipple and secure with the hose clamp. Ensure the clamp is positioned properly on the hose barb and tightened securely to prevent leaks.
7. 7

   Fill reservoir with fresh fluid
   Using a funnel, pour fresh Mopar ATF+4 into the reservoir until it reaches the COLD fill mark indicated on the reservoir per the factory service manual. Add approximately 1 quart initially. Install the reservoir cap loosely.
8. 8

   Bleed air from system
   With the reservoir filled, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 20 times without starting the engine. Check the reservoir level frequently and add fluid as needed to keep it above the MIN mark. The fluid level will drop as the system fills and air is displaced.
9. 9

   Start engine and complete bleeding
   Start the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 10 times while the engine is running. Check for leaks at the return line connection and around all fittings. The fluid level will drop further as the pump circulates fluid and remaining air is purged.
10. 10

    Final fluid level adjustment
    With the engine running and at operating temperature, turn the steering wheel to center position. Check the fluid level and add ATF+4 as needed to bring the level to the FULL HOT mark. Install the reservoir cap securely. Inspect the cap O-ring one final time and replace if necessary.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands
2. Wipe down any spilled fluid from engine bay components and frame
3. Properly dispose of old power steering fluid at a recycling facility

Verification

• Start the engine and verify smooth steering operation with no noise or binding
• Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times and listen for whining or groaning that would indicate air in the system or low fluid
• Check under the vehicle for any fluid leaks at the return line connection
• Verify the fluid level is at the FULL HOT mark with the engine at operating temperature
• Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal steering effort and response

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