Power Steering System Purging

2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid, AWDSECTION Power Steering System Purging
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Lincoln Town Car. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Special Tools

Illustration Tool Name Tool Number
GF0001258Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Evacuation Cap, Power Steering 211-265
GF0000997Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Vacuum Pump Kit 416-D002 (D95L-7559-A) or equivalent
Material

Item Specification
MERCON® V Automatic Transmission Fluid
XT-5-QM (or XT-5-QMC) (US); CXT-5-LM12 (Canada)
MERCON® V
NOTE: If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, premature power steering pump failure may result. The condition may occur on pre-delivery vehicles with evidence of aerated fluid or on vehicles that have had steering component repairs.
    NOTE: A whine heard from the power steering pump can be caused by air in the system. The power steering purge procedure must be carried out prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.
  1. Remove the power steering pump reservoir cap. Check the fluid.
  2. Raise the front wheels off the floor. Refer to JACKING & LIFTING article for the procedure.
  3. Tightly insert the Power Steering Evacuation Cap into the reservoir and connect the Vacuum Pump Kit.
  4. Fig 1: Identifying Power Steering Evacuation Cap And Vacuum Pump Kit
    GF0043458Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. Start the engine.
  6. Using the Vacuum Pump Kit, apply vacuum and maintain the maximum vacuum of 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg).
  7. If equipped with Hydro-Boost®, apply the brake pedal twice.
  8. NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.
  9. Cycle the steering wheel fully from stop-to-stop 10 times.
  10. Stop the engine.
  11. Release the vacuum and remove the Vacuum Pump Kit and the Power Steering Evacuation Cap.
  12. NOTE: Do not overfill the reservoir.
  13. Fill the reservoir.
    • Use approved transmission fluid.
  14. Start the engine.
  15. Install the Power Steering Evacuation Cap and the Vacuum Pump Kit. Apply and maintain the maximum vacuum of 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg).
  16. Fig 2: Identifying Power Steering Evacuation Cap And Vacuum Pump Kit
    GF0043458Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.