How to Change Power Steering Fluid

Power-steering fluid, like any other fluid under your hood, breaks down over time and needs to be replaced. As a rule of thumb, it is a good idea to replace the power-steering fluid every time you change your engine's coolant. While most manufacturers don't specify how often power-steering fluid should be changed, it is a good idea to check the fluid every so often and replace it when you note a color change (darkening from a pinkish color).

Difficulty:Moderate
Things You'll Need
Fluid removal/transfer tool
Power steering fluid
Funnel

1
Removing the cap under your hood marked "power steering fluid" and inspect the fluid on the attached dip stick. If the fluid is light brown, it is time to change it. If the fluid looks clean and is pinkish, there is no need to change it.

2
Insert the fluid removal/transfer tool into the open power-steering reservoir and suck out as much fluid as possible. Continue until the reservoir is empty.

3
Refill the reservoir with fresh power-steering fluid until it reaches the correct level according to the marks on the dip stick. Note that there may be a different optimum level when the engine is hot from when it is cold.

4
Replace the cap on the power-steering reservoir and close the hood.

5
Start the engine and turn the wheel to the right and the left. Make sure everything feels normal.

6
Drive the car for several miles, allowing the engine to reach its normal operating temperature.

7
Remove the cap from the power steering reservoir and look at the color of the liquid. If it is still brownish or appears dirty, repeat the process, removing all the fluid in the reservoir with the fluid removal/transfer tool and replacing it with fresh fluid.

8
Continue this process until the fluid appears pinkish and clean after the car has been driven for several miles and the engine has warmed to its normal operating temperature.