How to Perform a Power Steering Flush


1. Consult your owner's manual for the recommended type of power steering fluid.
2. Park the car on a level surface, engage the hand brake and turn off the engine.
3. Open the hood of the car.
4. Look for the steering box. The steering box is obvious in some vehicles because it is connected to the steering rods that turn the wheels. Consult your owner's manual if you cannot locate the steering box.
5. Place the oil pan or similar container directly under the steering box.
6. Use a wrench to loosen the flare nuts that secure the pipes that go into the steering box.
7. Angle the pipes into the oil pan.
8. Start the engine. Turn the steering wheel from side to side to help force the power steering fluid out of the system.
9. Add new power steering fluid to the power steering reserve tank while continuing to work the steering wheel from side to side. The reserve tank is located above the steering box and is clearly marked in most vehicles. Consult your owner's manual for the exact location on your vehicle.
10. Add new fluid to the tank until new fluid begins to flow into the oil pan, indicating the system has been flushed properly.
11. Turn off the engine.
12. Reattach the pipes to the steering box using the wrench and the flare nuts.
13. Fill the power steering reserve tank to the point indicated by the 'Full Hot Level' mark on the reserve cap's dipstick.
14. Turn the steering wheel from side to side to force out any large air bubbles. Secure the reserve tank cap in place to complete the procedure.