System Flushing

WARNING: Do not mix oil types. Any mixture or any unapproved oil can lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak can ultimately cause loss of fluid, which can result in a loss of power steering assist.

1. Remove the fuel pump relay from the engine compartment fuse/relay panel to disable the vehicle.





2. Disconnect the power steering return hose. Plug the reservoir.
3. Attach an extension hose between the power steering return hose and an empty container.
4. Raise the front wheels off the floor.
5. Check the power steering fluid level. If necessary, fill the reservoir to the correct level.
^ Use Motorcraft MERCON Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON equivalent.
6. Turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop while cranking the engine until the fluid exiting the power steering return hose is clear of all contamination and foreign material.
^ Add Motorcraft MERCON Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON equivalent as needed.

CAUTION: Do not crank the engine for more than 15 seconds at a time. Allow the starter to cool for 1 minute before cranking again. Premature starter failure can occur.

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.

7. Lower the vehicle.
8. Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose. Remove the plug. Attach the power steering return hose to the reservoir.
9. Check the power steering fluid level. If necessary, fill the reservoir to the correct level.
^ Use Motorcraft MERCON Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON equivalent.

CAUTION: Do not overfill the reservoir.

10. Install the fuel pump relay in the engine compartment fuse/relay panel.

11. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop.

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.

12. Check the power steering fluid level. If necessary, fill the reservoir to the correct level.
^ Use Motorcraft MERCON Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON equivalent.

NOTE: If the power steering system is noisy and is accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid it will be necessary to purge the power steering system.