Changing the power steering fluid | AUTODOC tips

How to change power steering fluid on a car – replacement tutorial

You will need:

                      a car lift or jack
                    
                      power steering fluid
                    
                      combination pliers
                    
                      a syringe to pump out the fluid
                    
                      a drain pan to collect the old fluid
                    
                      gloves

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Please note!

Poor steering response, a jerking steering wheel, and strange noises under the bonnet are the main signs that the power steering fluid has become unserviceable.
It should be changed at the intervals set by your car manufacturer.
The change procedure depends on your car's make and model and is described in the car service manual.

1.

Raise your car a little with a lift or jack up its front wheels.
2.

Remove the power steering reservoir cap and pump out the old fluid with the help of a syringe.
3.

Remove the hoses from the reservoir and drain out the rest of the old fluid from the return hose into the prepared drain pan.
4.

Set the ignition key to the ACC position to unlock the steering wheel and turn it lock-to-lock several times to pump the fluid out of the system.
5.

Add a small amount of new fluid into the reservoir. When it starts flowing out of the hose, this means that the system is completely cleared of the old fluid.
6.

Reattach the hoses to the reservoir.
7.

Pour in the new power steering fluid. The type and amount to use is specified by the car manufacturer.
8.

Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times.
9.

Check the fluid level, it should be between the reservoir's Min and Max marks. If there are no marks on the reservoir, use the dipstick attached to the cap.

Please note!
Some cars have four marks: Min Hot, Max Hot, Min Cold and Max Cold.In that case, the level can be checked on either a hot or cold engine.
10.

Lower the car to the ground. Run the engine for a few seconds.
11.

Stop it and add the fluid to the recommended level. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times.
12.

Make sure there is enough fluid in the reservoir.

13.

Take a test drive at a low speed and check the steering response. Adjust the power steering fluid level if necessary.