Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Power Steering System Flushing
- Ensure the engine is OFF.
- Apply the park brake.
- Using a floor jack and jack stands, raise the front of the vehicle until the center of the front wheels are approximately 61 cm (24 in)off the ground. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
- Place a large container under the vehicle in order to collect the draining fluid.
- Loosen the hose clamp (1) and disconnect the power steering fluid reservoir inlet hose from the power steering fluid reservoir.
- Plug the power steering fluid reservoir inlet port.
- With the key ON and the engine OFF, turn the steering wheel fully to the left and to the right while an assistant maintains the minimum fluid level in the reservoir using NEW approved power steering fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations
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Continue until the fluid from the power steering fluid reservoir inlet hose runs clear.
- Remove the plug from the power steering fluid reservoir inlet port.
- Connect the power steering fluid reservoir inlet hose to the reservoir. Secure the hose with the clamp.
- Fill and bleed the power steering system. Refer to 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 fluid is contaminated, repeat steps 5 through 11.
- Ensure there are no power steering fluid leaks.
- Lower the vehicle.
Do not reuse any drained power steering fluid regardless of appearance or condition.
This step may require 4 L (4 qt) of power steering fluid until the draining fluid appears clear.
Do NOT start the engine without the power steering fluid at a minimum system level.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.