Power Steering System Flushing
NOTE:
- Always use clean, new power steering fluid from a sealed container. Never reuse any drained power steering fluid regardless of appearance or condition.
- Specific power steering system component names may vary from vehicle to vehicle.
- Raise the vehicle until the front wheels are off the ground. Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
- Place a large drain pan under the vehicle in order to collect any power steering fluid.
- Remove the power steering fluid return hose at the power steering fluid reservoir or the power steering pump, as applicable.
- Plug the power steering fluid reservoir or the power steering pump, as applicable.
- Have an assistant maintain the minimum power steering fluid level in the power steering fluid reservoir using clean, new power steering fluid. Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid
- With the ignition ON and the engine OFF, turn the steering wheel completely to the left and to the right. Continue this process until the power steering fluid from the power steering fluid return hose runs clear.
- Remove the plug and install the power steering fluid return hose to the power steering fluid reservoir or the power steering pump, as applicable.
- Bleed the power steering system. Power Steering System Bleeding
- Inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:
- Milky fluid - water
- Brown fluid - burnt
- Plastic debris or dirt chunks
- If the power steering fluid is still contaminated, repeat steps 3 - 9.
- Remove the drain pan.
- Lower the vehicle.
NOTE:
This step may require 4 L (1 gal) of power steering fluid until the fluid appears clear.