Whether your car is having trouble starting in the cold or during a traffic jam, it’s likely that your power steering fluid has become low. While you might be able to fix the problem by topping off the fluid yourself using a funnel, there’s an easier, more efficient way to do this. Learn how to siphon power steering fluid in this article!
What You’ll Need
If you’re wondering how to siphon power steering fluid, the following is a guide to equip you with all of the supplies you’ll need.
-A siphon
-A bucket or container large enough to hold the power steering fluid
-Clean cloths
-A funnel
-A spout for the bucket or container
-Rubber gloves
-Shop towel or rag
1. Choose a location where you can safely work and be away from electrical equipment. If possible, choose a location where the floor is easily cleanable.
2. Remove the fuel cap and unscrew the fuel line leading from the tank to the engine. Position yourself behind the engine so that you can see and work with the lines.
3. Place your bucket or container beneath the pump assembly and unscrew the top of the assembly. Pour out any fluid that has collected in the bottom of the bucket.
4. Remove power steering fluid filter by gently tugging on it while holding onto one end with one hand and unscrewing it with your other hand. Deposit filter into your bucket or container. (Note: If your car has an inline expansion tank, do not remove it as this will require additional steps.)
5. If your car has an inline expansion tank, remove it by grasping the top of the tank with one hand and lifting it off. Be careful not to spill any fluid; replace filter as noted in step 4.
6. Pour power steering fluid into your bucket or container,filter and all. Make sure the fluid level is at or above the bottom of the filter. If necessary, add more fluid to reach this level.
7. Cloths should be wetted down before being used to wipe surfaces clean. Wipe down all parts of the pump assembly, including the housing, the lines leading from the pump assembly to the engine, and any exposed metal on the tank.
8. Place funnel over end of line leading from pump assembly to engine and pour power steering fluid into funnel until it reaches spout on bucket or container. (Note: Allow some air space at top of funnel for easier filling.)
9. With gloves on, use a shop towel or rag to help push liquid from funnel into spout on bucket or container. (If you are using a bucket, be sure to place a piece of cardboard beneath spout to catch any spills.)
How to Siphon Power Steering Fluid
If your car’s power steering has begun to feel stiff or difficult to turn, you may need to siphon the fluid out of the system. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start your engine and let it idle for a few minutes while the car is cool.
2. Open the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It will likely be on the passenger side of the engine bay, next to the coolant reservoir.
3. Remove the cap from the reservoir and wait a few seconds until the fluid starts to flow out.
4. If there is too much fluid in the system, you can tap the sides of the reservoir with a plastic bottle until it empties, then replace the cap. Otherwise, just wait until all of the fluid has flowed out before closing up the reservoir.
5. Replace any worn or damaged parts as necessary, then start your car and drive it around for a few minutes to allow the new parts to settle in.
What to Do if Your Siphon Doesn’t Work
If your siphon doesn’t work, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the issue.
1) Check the connection between the siphon and the pump. Make sure that they are connected securely and that the siphon is inserted properly into the pump.
2) Check that the pump is turning on. If it is not, turn it on by adjusting the plug or switch.
3) Check that the fluid level in the container is correct. If it is low, add more fluid to the container. If it is high, decrease the amount of fluid in the container.
4) Check that there is no debris in the siphon line or pump tube. Clean these areas if necessary.