Power Steering Bleeding: Service and Repair

Air Bleeding Hydraulic System

Incomplete air bleeding causes the following:

- Air bubbles in reservoir tank
- Clicking noise in oil pump
- Excessive buzzing in oil pump

When this happens bleed the air again.
1) With engine not started, turn steering wheel fully right to left several times. when fluid level is lowered, refill reservoir. Repeat process until fluid level is stabilized.
2) Start the engine and turn the steering wheel fully to the right and left several times.

CAUTION:
Do not allow steering fluid in the reservoir tank to go below the MIN level line. Check tank frequently and add fluid as needed.

NOTE:
When the vehicle is stationary or while the steering wheel is being turned slowly, some noise may be heard from the oil pump or gear. This noise is normal and does not affect any system.

3) Run the engine at idle speed. Hold the steering wheel at each "locked" position for three seconds and check for leakage.

CAUTION:
Do not hold steering wheel in the locked position for more than 10 seconds. (There is the possibility that oil pump may be damaged.)

4) Repeat step 3 several times at about three second intervals.
5) Check for air bubbles, cloudy fluid and fluid leakage.
6) If air bubbles or cloudiness exists, perform steps 3 and 4 again until air bubbles and cloudiness do not exist.
7) Stop the engine and check fluid level.