Cleaning a Power Steering Reservoir Step by Step
Keeping the power steering reservoir clean is crucial for the smooth operation of your vehicle’s steering system. A contaminated reservoir can lead to poor steering performance or even damage the power steering pump. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your power steering reservoir.
Step 1: Gather Required Materials
Before starting, make sure you have the following items:
- Car manual
- Power steering fluid
- Gloves and safety glasses
- Clean rags or towels
- A drain pan
- A funnel
- A turkey baster or syringe (for extraction)
- Cleaner (brake cleaner or parts cleaner)
- A variety of hand tools (depending on your car model)
Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle
Ensure the car is parked on a level surface, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool. Open the hood and locate the power steering reservoir.
Step 3: Drain the Existing Fluid
Use a turkey baster or syringe to suck out as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible. Discard the old fluid in accordance with local regulations (usually at an automotive fluid recycling center).
Step 4: Remove the Reservoir
This step might require hand tools like wrenches or screwdrivers. Consult your car’s manual for guidance on how to properly detach the power steering reservoir.
Step 5: Clean the Reservoir
Once removed, clean out any remaining fluid with a clean rag. Next, use a designated parts cleaner to remove sludge and deposits from inside the reservoir. Make sure to clean both the inside and outside. Additionally, if there’s a removable filter, replace it as per manufacturer recommendations.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
After cleaning, rinse the reservoir with fresh power steering fluid to remove any residue of the cleaner. Dry the reservoir completely with clean towels to avoid any contamination with moisture.
Step 7: Reinstall the Reservoir
Once the reservoir is dry, reinstall it. Make sure all hoses and connections are secure and free of leaks.
Step 8: Refill with New Fluid
Use the funnel to add new power steering fluid to the reservoir. Be sure to use the type of fluid specified in your vehicle’s manual.
Step 9: Bleed the System
After refilling, you will need to bleed the system of air. This usually involves running the vehicle, turning the steering wheel all the way to the left and right several times, and topping off the fluid as necessary. Check your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions.
Step 10: Check for Leaks
Start your vehicle and inspect all connections for leaks. If there are no leaks, close the hood and test drive your car to ensure that the steering performs smoothly.
Step 11: Dispose of Materials Properly
Dispose of any old fluid, used rags, and any other contaminated materials according to local regulations to ensure environmental safety.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning the power steering reservoir, can help extend the life of your vehicle’s power steering system and ensure optimal function and safety on the road. Always consult your car’s manual for specific guidelines related to your make and model, and if in doubt, consult with a professional mechanic.