Power Steering Hose - Return

Replace the power steering return hose on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo by removing the old hose assembly and installing a new hose with fresh O-rings.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering return hose assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Power steering line O-rings × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if applicable) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Raise vehicle on lift or support securely on jack stands
4. Remove engine undertray/splash shield if equipped to access power steering components
5. Place drain pan underneath power steering reservoir and return line routing area
6. If equipped with hydraulic power steering, remove power steering reservoir cap to relieve system pressure

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the power steering return hose
   Trace the return hose from the power steering pump or rack to the reservoir. The return hose is the low-pressure line that carries fluid back to the reservoir. It typically has spring clamps or threaded fittings at each end. On vehicles with EPS, verify the presence of any hydraulic auxiliary systems before proceeding.
2. 2

   Drain power steering fluid from return hose
   Position drain pan directly under the return hose connection points. If accessible, use a vacuum tool to remove fluid from the reservoir first to minimize spillage. Expect approximately 0.5-1.0 quarts of fluid to drain from the system during hose removal.
   ⚠Power steering fluid can damage paint and rubber components. Protect surrounding areas with shop towels.
3. 3

   Disconnect return hose at reservoir
   At the power steering reservoir end, loosen the hose clamp or use a line wrench to disconnect the threaded fitting. If using a threaded fitting, turn counterclockwise to loosen. Allow fluid to drain into the pan. Remove and discard the old O-ring if present.
4. 4

   Disconnect return hose at steering rack or pump
   Locate the opposite end of the return hose where it connects to the steering rack or pump. Use a line wrench to loosen the fitting, turning counterclockwise. Support the hose while loosening to prevent twisting the connection points. Remove and discard the old O-ring.
5. 5

   Remove return hose assembly
   Carefully extract the return hose from its routing path, noting any clips, brackets, or tie-down points securing it to the chassis or engine components. Take photos or make notes of the exact routing for proper reinstallation. Remove any mounting clips or brackets attached to the hose.
6. 6

   Prepare new return hose
   Unpack the new power steering return hose assembly. Install new O-rings onto both connection ends, ensuring they are properly seated in their grooves. Lightly lubricate the O-rings with clean power steering fluid or the specified system fluid to ease installation and prevent tearing.
7. 7

   Route new return hose
   Route the new hose along the same path as the original, ensuring it follows the factory routing exactly. Avoid sharp bends, contact with hot exhaust components, or areas where the hose could be pinched or abraded. Reinstall any mounting clips or brackets to secure the hose in position.
8. 8

   Connect return hose at steering rack or pump
   Thread the fitting at the steering rack or pump end by hand first to ensure proper engagement. Once hand-tight, use a line wrench and torque wrench to tighten the power steering line fitting to specification. Verify the O-ring remains properly seated during tightening.
   Torque spec

   Power Steering Line Fittings30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect return hose at reservoir
   Attach the reservoir end of the return hose. If using a threaded fitting, hand-tighten first then torque to specification using a line wrench and torque wrench. If using a spring clamp connection, ensure the hose is fully seated over the barb before positioning and tightening the clamp securely.
   Torque spec

   Power Steering Line Fittings30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Fill and bleed power steering system
    Fill the power steering reservoir to the appropriate level with the correct fluid specification. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times slowly to purge air from the system. Check fluid level and top off as needed. Inspect all connections for leaks while the system is pressurized.
    ℹ️This step only applies if your vehicle has hydraulic power steering. The factory 2017 Levante uses Electric Power Steering with no fluid system.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine undertray/splash shield with fasteners torqued to specification
2. Lower vehicle from lift or jack stands
3. Top off power steering fluid to proper level after test drive (if equipped with hydraulic system)
4. Properly dispose of old power steering fluid and hose according to local regulations

Verification

• Start engine and verify no leaks at either connection point of the new return hose
• Turn steering wheel through full range of motion and confirm smooth operation without noise
• Check power steering fluid level is within normal range (if hydraulic system present)
• Inspect hose routing to ensure no contact with moving parts, exhaust, or sharp edges
• Test drive vehicle and verify normal steering feel and response with no unusual noises or fluid leaks

More procedures for this vehicle