How to Install Power Steering Fluid in a BMW E24

1. Open the hood. Locate the power-steering reservoir. On the E24 (and some other BMWs) the power-steering reservoir is a round metal container located on the left side of the engine just in front of the fuse block.
2. Open the lid to the power-steering reservoir by unscrewing the wing nut that holds the lid on. Pull the lid off and set it aside. Underneath the lid is a metal mesh filter for keeping dirt from going into the power-steering system.
3. Pump the brakes to discharge the system. The power steering and the power brakes share the same hydraulic fluid. Pump the brakes until the pedal feels hard and then check the level of the fluid. Press the brakes until the power-steering fluid has stopped rising in the reservoir.
4. Top up the power-steering fluid if it is low until the level of the fluid is about 10 mm below the top of the reservoir. Turn the car on and then turn the steering wheel from lock to lock (as far it will turn in either direction) a few times. Check the level again to ensure it still at the full level. Replace the lid for the reservoir. Shut the hood.