How to Flush Power Steering Fluid

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Flushing power steering fluid refers to the process of circulating the fluid in an automobile's steering system in order to assure proper operation. The procedure is not difficult, and with a little knowledge, even someone with a minimal amount of experience in mechanics can perform this task on their own. Here are some steps to guide you as you learn how to flush power steering fluid.

Steps

1. 1
   Lift the vehicle using a jack and assure that the front wheels are raised to a sufficient height, allowing you to slide easily under the car.
   
   
   • Since you will be rotating the steering wheel, jack stands are recommended in order to allow free movement of the tires.
2. 2
   Locate and remove the catch tray which can be found under the power steering system.
3. 3
   Drain the power steering fluid by disconnecting the low-pressure hose from the steering pump at its lowest point.
4. 4
   Reconnect the hose.
5. 5
   Unscrew the cap to the power steering reservoir and add the manufacturer's recommended amount of power steering fluid.
6. 6
   Replace the cap to seal the reservoir.
7. 7
   Start the engine and rotate the steering wheel from one locked position to the other for 10 to 15 minutes.
8. 8
   Listen for a buzzing sound which indicates that there is air trapped in the system.
9. 9
   Continue to turn the steering wheel until the fluid is properly circulated throughout the system releasing any remaining air.
10. 10
    Turn the engine off and allow it to rest for several minutes.
11. 11
    Disconnect the low-pressure hose once again and allow the steering fluid to drain completely.
12. 12
    Reconnect the hose and refill the reservoir with the proper amount of fluid.
13. 13
    Start the engine and rotate the steering wheel to release any trapped air from the system.
14. 14
    Turn off the engine again and let it rest.
15. 15
    Repeat the process of filling, steering and draining as many times as necessary until you've flushed two quarts of fluid through the system.
16. 16
    Lower the vehicle and start the engine once again.
17. 17
    Verify that the steering wheel is operating properly when the vehicle's weight is on the tires.
    
    

Tips

• Since vehicles vary concerning year, make and model, it is always advisable to consult your owner's manual regarding the specific details of any maintenance procedure.
• For safety purposes, be sure to wear suitable clothing and protective eyewear when performing this operation.
• Performing a power steering fluid flush on a predetermined schedule is an integral component in preserving the functionality of your vehicle.
• Always dispose of any purged fluid in an environmentally responsible way.
• It will generally take six separate cycles to complete a power steering fluid flush.
• During the air purging process, it is imperative that you don't overfill the reservoir. Filling it to the midpoint between the minimum and maximum levels is ideal.
• If, after you've flushed two quarts of fluid through the system, you still hear a buzzing when rotating the steering wheel, you may need to remove the fluid reservoir in order to expel all of the air.
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