If your car is inoperable, your best bet is to call a tow truck. If you’re able to drive it yourself, you might be able to fix the problem yourself. But if you can’t get the car started or it’s been sitting for a while, you’ll need to call a tow truck. Here’s how to bleed the power steering pump:
What is a power steering pump?
A power steering pump is a mechanical device used to assist the driver in controlling the direction and speed of a vehicle. It is typically mounted near the rear of a car between the engine and the transmission.
The pump’s job is to force hydraulic fluid from a reservoir to through the steering linkage, turning the wheels as necessary. A failure in the pump can cause loss of power steering, excessive noise, and difficult steering. In most cases, it is not difficult to diagnose and repair a power steering pump. However, if you are having difficulties, it may be best to have a professional take a look.
How does a power steering pump work?
A power steering pump works by using fluid to help turn the engine. The fluid is circulated around the engine and helps to move the truck or car in the desired direction. When the pump fails, it can lead to difficult to steer and difficult parking maneuvers.
How to bleed a power steering pump?
If you notice your car is not turning as easily as it used to, or the power steering seems to not be working as well as it should, it may be time to bleed the power steering pump. Bleeding a power steering pump is a simple procedure that can help restore lost fluid pressure and improve your car’s handling. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your car in a safe location with the engine off.
2. Remove the hood and locate the power steering hose near the front of the engine.
3. Unscrew the hose from the pump and drain any excess fluid into a container.
4. Reattach the hose to the pump and screw it onto the pump housing firmly but gently.
5. Turn on the engine and let it run for a few minutes while the system pressures equalize.
Warning signs when bleeding a power steering pump
If you are bleeding a power steering pump, there are certain warning signs you should watch for. Watch the fluid level in the reservoir closely and make sure it does not drop below the bottom line. Make sure the engine is running smoothly and that all belts and pulleys are in working order. If everything checks out and the fluid level remains stable, continue bleeding the pump. If, however, the fluid level begins to drop rapidly or falls below the bottom line, stop bleeding the pump and call a mechanic.
Steps to bleeding a power steering pump
If your car experiences difficulty steering, you may need to bleed the power steering pump. Bleeding a power steering pump involves draining the fluid that’s inside it and flushing out any debris. Here are the steps to bleeding a power steering pump:
1) Park your car in a safe location.
2) Turn off the engine and all accessories.
3) Remove the battery cover.
4) Disconnect the negative battery cable.
5) Remove the air cleaner cover.
6) Remove the power steering hose from the power steering pump.
7) Connect one end of a standard garden hose to the fitting on the power steering pump and connect the other end to a water source. Turn on the water flow and wait until all of the fluid has been drained from the power steering pump. DO NOT OVERFLOW THE SYSTEM OR IT WILL DAMAGE THE HOSE AND PUMP!
8) Once all of the fluid has been drained, disconnect the hose from the water source and replace everything that you removed in Step 7.