Drain and Refill System

GENERAL INFORMATION
Replacing the power steering fluid is a two-stage process: First, the old fluid is flushed from the system with new fluid; and second, the system is bled to remove trapped air. This procedure may be used also in cold climates, where temperatures are minus 12° C (10° F) or colder, to flush and change the fluid to Low Temperature Climate Service Fluid, GM P/N 12345866, or equivalent.

FLUSHING THE SYSTEM
1. Raise front end of vehicle until wheels are free to turn.
2. Remove power steering gear outlet hose from pump reservoir inlet connector and plug inlet connector port on reservoir.
3. Position end of return line into a large container to catch the fluid to be drained.
4. Have a helper fill the reservoir with new power steering fluid. Be sure to have the level maintained at the "FULL COLD" mark while flushing the system.
5. Start and run engine at idle speed.
6. Turn steering wheel from stop to stop.

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against stops while flushing the system. Holding steering wheel against wheel stops will cause high system pressure, overheating and damage to the pump and/or gear.

7. Continue draining and flushing the system until all old fluid is cleared from it. Addition of about 0.9 liter (1 quart) of new fluid will be needed to flush the system. Do not re-use any drained power steering fluid.
8. When flushing is completed, stop engine, unplug reservoir inlet port and reconnect return line.
9. Fill reservoir to "FULL COLD" level.
10. Bleed power steering system.