Power Steering Reservoir

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power steering fluid reservoir on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Power steering line O-rings × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Toyota ATF Dexron III — 1 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Place drain pan and shop towels under power steering reservoir area
4. Remove engine cover by removing cover screws if equipped

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove fluid from reservoir
   Use a turkey baster or fluid pump to remove as much power steering fluid as possible from the reservoir. Dispose of old fluid in accordance with local regulations. This minimizes spillage during removal.
2. 2

   Disconnect return hose
   Locate the low-pressure return hose on the bottom of the reservoir. Use pliers to slide the spring clamp away from the reservoir fitting. Gently twist and pull the hose off the reservoir nipple. Allow remaining fluid to drain into the drain pan.
3. 3

   Disconnect pressure line
   Using a 14mm flare nut wrench or appropriate wrench, loosen the pressure line fitting at the reservoir. The fitting uses a banjo bolt design. Remove the bolt completely and separate the pressure line from the reservoir. Note the position of the sealing washers on both sides of the banjo fitting.
   ℹ️The banjo bolt uses crush washers/O-rings that must be replaced. Do not reuse old seals.
   Torque spec

   Power Steering Line Fittings30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove reservoir mounting hardware
   Remove the mounting bolt(s) securing the reservoir bracket to the engine block using a 10mm socket. The reservoir is typically held by one or two bolts depending on production date.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove reservoir assembly
   Lift the reservoir assembly up and out of the engine bay. Be prepared for residual fluid to drain from the reservoir and hoses. Keep the drain pan positioned to catch any spills. Inspect the mounting bracket and rubber grommets for damage.
6. 6

   Install new reservoir
   Position the new reservoir assembly into the mounting location. Ensure any rubber grommets or insulators are properly seated. Thread the mounting bolt(s) by hand first to ensure proper alignment before tightening.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Connect pressure line with new O-rings
   Install new O-rings or sealing washers on both sides of the banjo fitting. Position the pressure line to the reservoir port and install the banjo bolt. Torque the fitting to specification using a torque wrench.
   ⚠Ensure O-rings are properly seated before tightening. Cross-threading or improper seating will cause leaks.
   Torque spec

   Power Steering Line Fittings30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Connect return hose
   Push the return hose firmly onto the reservoir nipple until it bottoms out. Slide the spring clamp back into position over the hose connection point. Ensure the clamp is positioned correctly to prevent hose separation.
9. 9

   Fill reservoir with fresh fluid
   Fill the power steering reservoir with Toyota ATF Dexron III to the cold fill line marked on the reservoir. Do not overfill. The reservoir holds approximately 1 quart total system capacity.
10. 10

    Bleed air from system
    Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times with the engine off to circulate fluid. Check the reservoir level and add fluid as needed. Start the engine and turn the wheel lock-to-lock again while idling. Check for leaks at all connections. Add fluid to bring level to the hot fill line once the system is warm.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine cover with cover screws torqued to specification if equipped
2. Clean any spilled power steering fluid from engine components and surrounding areas
3. Recheck all connection points for proper torque and seal integrity

Verification

• Start engine and verify no leaks at reservoir connections while engine idles
• Turn steering wheel fully left and right several times and confirm smooth operation with no noise
• Verify power steering fluid level is at the appropriate hot fill line after system reaches operating temperature
• Test drive vehicle and confirm normal power steering operation with no whining or groaning noises
• Recheck fluid level after test drive and inspect for any signs of leakage

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