Over time, power steering fluid can become dirty and may need to be flushed out. This process will help to clean the system and make it run more smoothly. Learn how to do a power steering flush in this article!
What is a Power Steering Flush?
A power steering flush is a process of cleaning out the old, dirty fluid from your power steering system and replacing it with fresh, new fluid. This is important because over time, power steering fluid can become contaminated with dirt and debris, which can clog up the system and make it less effective. A power steering flush will help to clean out the system and restore its performance.
Why do you Need to do a Power Steering Flush?
If you notice that your power steering is becoming less responsive, or if you hear strange noises coming from the system, it may be time to do a power steering flush. This will help to remove any build-up of dirt or debris that may be causing the problem.
A power steering flush is a relatively simple process, and can be done at home with the right supplies. You’ll need to have a container to catch the old fluid as it drains out, and fresh fluid to add back in. Once you’ve got everything ready, simply follow the instructions below.
1. With the engine off, disconnect the power steering hose from the pump.
2. Place your container underneath the hose, and then open the bleeder valve to allow the old fluid to drain out.
3. Close the bleeder valve once the flow of fluid has stopped, and then reconnect the hose to the pump.
4. Fill up the power steering reservoir with fresh fluid, and then start up the engine.
5. With the engine running, turn the steering wheel from one side to the other several times to work the new fluid through the system.
6. Check for any leaks, and then top off the reservoir as needed.
When Should you do a Power Steering Flush?
A power steering flush should be done every 30,000 miles or as needed.
How to do a Power Steering Flush
If your power steering system is starting to feel sluggish or not responding as well as it used to, it might be time for a power steering flush. This simple maintenance procedure can help restore optimal performance to your system and extend its life.
Here’s how to do a power steering flush:
1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It is usually located near the engine, on the side of the firewall.
3. Remove the reservoir cap and use a turkey baster or similar tool to remove all of the old power steering fluid from the reservoir.
4. Fill the reservoir with new power steering fluid, then replace the cap.
5. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. While the engine is running, turn the steering wheel from left to right several times to circulate the new fluid through the system.
6. Turn off the engine and check the reservoir level again; add more fluid if necessary.
7. Replace the reservoir cap and you’re done!
Tools and Materials Needed for a Power Steering Flush
If you’re planning on doing a power steering flush, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials first. Here’s what you’ll need:
– A power steering pump
– A power steering fluid reservoir
– A power steering hose
– A funnel
– Power steering fluid
Once you have all of your materials, you can follow these steps to flush your power steering system:
1. Remove the old power steering fluid from the reservoirs using a funnel.
2. Fill the reservoirs with new power steering fluid.
3. Connect the power steering hose to the pump and reservoir.
4. Turn on the pump and let it run for a few minutes.
5. Turn off the pump and disconnect the hose.
6. Pour out the old power steering fluid from the reservoir.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 until theold fluid is completely flushed from the system.
Tips for Flushing Your Power Steering System
If your car is starting to feel like it’s harder to turn the wheel, or you notice a whining noise when you turn the wheel, then it might be time to flush your power steering system. A power steering flush is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with the right tools and supplies. Here are some tips on how to do a power steering flush:
1. Park your car on a level surface and engage the emergency brake. This will help to keep your car from moving while you’re working on it.
2. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It should be somewhere near the engine, and will likely have a cap that says “power steering fluid” on it.
3. Remove the cap and use a turkey baster or similar tool to remove as much of the old fluid from the reservoir as possible.
4. Fill the reservoir with new power steering fluid. You can use any type of power steering fluid, but make sure it’s compatible with your car.
5. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. While it’s idling, turn the steering wheel from side to side to help work the new fluid through the system.