The process of circulating the fluid in an automobile's steering system is referred to as "flushing power steering fluid"If you have enough steering fluid, you can easily turn the big, heavy wheels on your car at slow speeds.Even someone with little experience in mechanics can perform this task on his or her own.
Step 1: The recommended power steering flush schedule can be found in the owner's manual.
The power steering system is clean.Over time natural wear and tear will cause bits of rubber, plastic, and dirt to enter the fluid and this can cause problems to the entire system if it is not flushed.Look up your model's time frame, because each car has a suggested interval after which you should change the fluid.The fluid should be replaced every 35-40 thousand miles for high-end cars.
Step 2: It's a good idea to check for leaks in your power steering fluid.
From month to month, your power steering fluid level should not change.If your car is leaking, you should bring it to an auto shop as soon as possible.A picture of a steering wheel is usually a labeled cap.Check your owner's manual if you can't locate this tank.
Step 3: The consistency and color of your power steering fluid should be looked at.
Use a flashlight to peer into the fluid.The consistency, color, and smell will tell you whether or not you need to change your fluid: if it smells burnt, looks dark brown or black, or has shiny, metallic bits in it.If it is darkly colored, your owner's manual recommends it.It was replaced in the last two to three years if it was lightly colored, dark without metallic bits or chunks.
Step 4: If you hear a whining or moaning noise when turning, bring your car to the mechanic.
This could be a sign of more serious power steering problems.The easier and cheaper the repair is, the sooner you take care of the issue.
Step 5: Lift the vehicle using a jack and make sure the front wheels are raised to a sufficient height so you can slide easily under the car.
Jack stands are recommended in order to allow free movement of the tires since you will be rotating the steering wheel.
Step 6: The power steering system has the catch tray under it.
Some cars don't have a catch tray.Check your owner's manual if you are confused.If there is any fluid in this tray, it's probably a leak and you should bring the car to the mechanic.As you flush the fluid, place a disposable pan under the catch tray.The power steering rack line should be disconnected if you are an extra car savvy person.The removal of more fluid will lead to a better flush.
Step 7: The steering pump's low-pressure hose should be disconnected to drain the power steering fluid.
There will be hoses running from your power steering.Unhook the hose and drain the old fluid.As soon as you unhook it, the fluid will flow.Gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves are recommended.
Step 8: Add 1/2 of the manufacturer's recommended amount of power steering fluid when you remove the cap.
To flush the system, you'll need to remove the air bubbles and push out the rest of the fluid in the hoses.Before moving on, fill it halfway.
Step 9: Turn the car on and add more fluid.
It's easy to have a friend turn the car on.You want to keep an eye on the draining fluid as well as the current level.Shut the car off when the fluid is new.As you pour, have your friend turn the wheel.The air will be removed from the lines.As you fill it, the fluid will bubble.The air being flushed from the system is represented by this.
Step 10: The power steering line needs to be reconnected after you turn off the car.
The power steering fluid isn't thick so it should be easy to close the line up once you're done.After the fluid is flushed, take the car off and put it back together.
Step 11: The recommended level is filled and closed up.
Once the air is out and the line is closed, fill the reservoir to the recommended level.
Step 12: The steering wheel should be moved from one locked position to another for five minutes.
There is air trapped in the system and there is a buzzing sound.Continue to turn the steering wheel until the fluid in the system is properly circulating.
Step 13: The car should be turned off and the fluid added to it.
It is more likely that your fluid level will drop after you test the steering wheel.The fluid is being drawn into the lines.To finish the job, top off the reservoir with more power steering fluid.
Step 14: When the vehicle's weight is on the tires, make sure the steering wheel is working properly.
The steering wheel should be turned back and forth.The wheels should be able to turn like normal.If they don't, bleed the system and refill it.
Step 15: Don't assume that power steering is essential.
Many owner's manual don't mention steering fluid, despite the fact that a full flush is needed for most cars.You can get by with a simpler "flush" if the fluid doesn't smell burnt and there are no metallic bits in it.This simple procedure will refresh your fluid if it's dark or you're worried about your car.
Step 16: Find the power steering fluid on your engine.
This is usually labeled with a steering wheel icon.
Step 17: The current level of the power steering fluid should be marked.
The consistency and color of the fluid should be noted.You need to do a full flush of the system if it smells burnt or has metal in it.The current level of the fluid should be noted.
Step 18: A turkey baster can be used to remove the old fluid from the reservoir.
This will take some time, and you will not get everything, but this is a simple and easy way to get old fluid out without a complicated flush.
Step 19: Fresh fluid is what you need to refill the reservoir.
If you have no other problems, this simple procedure is just as effective as a full flush.The power steering system is easy to use.The power steering system doesn't need a filter.The only thing you'll need to do is refresh your wheels.If you change this fluid, you'll be ahead of the game because many cars don't recommend it.
Step 20: To refresh the fluid after a few weeks, repeat the process.
If you want a full flush, drive the car around, recirculating the fluid, and repeat a few weeks later.This won't get everything out, but it's enough to keep your car running.