How To Clean A Power Steering Reservoir: DIY Guide

Can I clean my power steering reservoir? Yes, you can clean your power steering reservoir, and this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Cleaning it is a crucial part of power steering reservoir maintenance that can prevent costly repairs down the road. A dirty reservoir can lead to power steering fluid contamination and eventually, power steering system failure. This DIY guide provides you with the power steering reservoir cleaning steps needed to perform the cleaning and how to flush power steering fluid at home.

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Why Power Steering Reservoir Cleaning Matters

The power steering system is a hydraulic system that assists the driver in steering the vehicle. The power steering pump circulates fluid from the power steering reservoir to the power steering gear, providing the necessary hydraulic pressure to reduce steering effort. Over time, the power steering fluid can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and metal particles, forming sludge within the reservoir. This sludge can restrict fluid flow, damage the power steering pump, and compromise the overall performance of the system. Therefore, routine power steering reservoir cleaning helps prolong the life of your power steering system and ensures optimal steering performance.

The Consequences of Neglecting Power Steering Reservoir Maintenance

Neglecting power steering reservoir maintenance can have significant consequences:

• Reduced Steering Assist: Contaminated fluid can impair the power steering pump’s ability to generate sufficient hydraulic pressure, making steering more difficult, especially at low speeds.
• Power Steering Pump Failure: Sludge and debris can accelerate wear and tear on the power steering pump, leading to premature failure. Replacing the power steering pump can be an expensive repair.
• Damage to the Steering Gear: Contaminated fluid can also damage the steering gear, leading to leaks, internal wear, and eventual failure. Steering gear replacement is also a costly repair.
• Noisy Power Steering System: A whining or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel can be a sign of a contaminated or failing power steering system.
• Stiff Steering: If the power steering fluid is severely contaminated, the steering wheel may become difficult to turn, requiring excessive effort.

Tools and Materials Needed for Power Steering Reservoir Cleaning

Before beginning the power steering reservoir cleaning process, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the job easier and more efficient.

• New Power Steering Fluid: Use the correct type of power steering fluid specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage the power steering system.
• Turkey Baster or Fluid Extractor: Used to remove the old power steering fluid from the reservoir.
• Socket Set or Wrenches: Needed to disconnect the power steering reservoir hoses.
• Hose Clamp Pliers (Optional): Makes removing hose clamps easier.
• Cleaning Solution: Use a solvent-based cleaner such as brake cleaner, carburetor cleaner, or specialized power steering system cleaner. Ensure the cleaner is compatible with the reservoir material (plastic or metal).
• Lint-Free Rags or Shop Towels: Used to wipe down the reservoir and clean up any spills.
• Small Brush: A small brush, such as a toothbrush or parts cleaning brush, is helpful for scrubbing the inside of the reservoir.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from the chemicals in the power steering fluid and cleaning solution.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from splashes of fluid or cleaning solution.
• Drain Pan: Used to catch the old power steering fluid.
• Funnel: Helps to pour the new power steering fluid into the reservoir without spilling.
• Jack and Jack Stands (Optional): If you plan to flush the entire power steering system, you may need to lift the front of the vehicle.

Power Steering Reservoir Cleaning Steps: A Detailed Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean a power steering reservoir and perform a partial power steering fluid flush:

Step 1: Safety First!

• Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Allow the engine to cool completely before starting the cleaning process.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin.

Step 2: Removing the Old Power Steering Fluid

• Open the hood and locate the power steering reservoir. It is usually a plastic container with a cap marked with a steering wheel icon.
• Place a drain pan under the reservoir to catch any spills.
• Use a turkey baster or fluid extractor to remove as much of the old power steering fluid as possible from the reservoir. Dispose of the old fluid properly at a recycling center or auto parts store.

Step 3: Disconnecting the Reservoir (Optional but Recommended)

• In some vehicles, the reservoir is easily removable, making cleaning easier. If your reservoir is easily accessible and removable, proceed with this step. If not, skip to Step 4 and clean the reservoir in place.
• Locate the hoses connected to the reservoir. Use hose clamp pliers (if needed) to loosen the hose clamps.
• Carefully disconnect the hoses from the reservoir. Be prepared for some fluid to spill out.
• Remove the reservoir from the vehicle.

Step 4: Cleaning the Reservoir

• If you removed the reservoir, take it to a well-ventilated area.
• Spray the inside of the reservoir with the cleaning solution (brake cleaner, carburetor cleaner, or specialized power steering system cleaner).
• Use a small brush to scrub the inside of the reservoir, paying attention to the bottom where sludge tends to accumulate.
• Rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water or the cleaning solution to remove any remaining residue.
• Allow the reservoir to air dry completely before reinstalling it.

If you are cleaning the reservoir in place:

• Spray the cleaning solution inside the reservoir.
• Use a small brush to scrub the inside of the reservoir as best as you can.
• Use a clean rag to wipe out the reservoir and remove any loose debris.
• Use the turkey baster or fluid extractor to remove the cleaning solution from the reservoir.
• Let it dry completely.

Step 5: Reinstalling the Reservoir (If Removed)

• If you removed the reservoir, reinstall it by connecting the hoses and securing them with the hose clamps. Ensure the hoses are properly seated and the clamps are tight to prevent leaks.

Step 6: Refilling with New Power Steering Fluid

• Using a funnel, carefully pour the new power steering fluid into the reservoir until it reaches the “MAX” fill line.
• Check the fluid level after a few minutes, as the fluid may settle and require topping off.

Step 7: Bleeding the Power Steering System

• Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
• Slowly turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to bleed any air from the power steering system.
• Check the fluid level in the reservoir again and top off if necessary.
• Inspect the hoses and connections for any leaks.

Step 8: Test Drive

• Take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure the power steering system is functioning properly.
• Listen for any unusual noises, such as whining or groaning, and check the steering feel.
• If the steering feels stiff or noisy, repeat the bleeding process.

How to Flush Power Steering Fluid at Home: A More Comprehensive Cleaning

While cleaning the power steering reservoir helps remove sludge and debris, a full power steering fluid flush provides a more comprehensive cleaning of the entire system. Here’s how to perform a full flush:

Method 1: Disconnecting the Return Line

This method involves disconnecting the return line from the power steering reservoir and flushing the old fluid out with new fluid.

1. Raise the Vehicle (Optional): Jack up the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. This will make it easier to turn the steering wheel from lock to lock.
2. Locate the Return Line: Identify the power steering return line, which is the hose that returns fluid from the steering gear to the reservoir. It is usually smaller in diameter than the pressure line.
3. Disconnect the Return Line: Place a drain pan under the return line connection at the reservoir. Disconnect the return line from the reservoir and direct it into the drain pan.
4. Plug the Reservoir Return Port: Plug the return port on the reservoir to prevent fluid from draining out. You can use a rubber cap or a suitable plug.
5. Fill the Reservoir: Fill the power steering reservoir with new power steering fluid.
6. Start the Engine (Briefly): Have a helper start the engine for a few seconds while you monitor the fluid level in the reservoir. As the engine runs, the power steering pump will pump the old fluid out of the system and into the drain pan.
7. Add Fluid Continuously: Keep adding new fluid to the reservoir to prevent the pump from running dry.
8. Continue Flushing: Continue this process until the fluid coming out of the return line is clean and new.
9. Reconnect the Return Line: Once the fluid is clean, turn off the engine and reconnect the return line to the reservoir.
10. Refill and Bleed: Refill the reservoir to the “MAX” line and bleed the power steering system by turning the steering wheel from lock to lock several times.
11. Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the power steering system is functioning properly.

Method 2: Using a Power Steering Flush Machine

Some auto parts stores offer power steering flush machines that make the flushing process easier and more efficient.

1. Connect the Machine: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the flush machine to the power steering system. This usually involves disconnecting the return line and connecting the machine’s hoses to the reservoir and the return line.
2. Add Fluid to the Machine: Fill the machine with the recommended power steering fluid.
3. Start the Machine: Start the flush machine and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to circulate the new fluid through the power steering system.
4. Monitor the Fluid: Monitor the fluid flowing through the machine’s clear hoses. The machine will typically have a way to isolate the old fluid from the new fluid.
5. Complete the Flush: Continue the flush until the fluid circulating through the system is clean and new.
6. Disconnect the Machine: Disconnect the flush machine and reconnect the return line to the reservoir.
7. Refill and Bleed: Refill the reservoir to the “MAX” line and bleed the power steering system by turning the steering wheel from lock to lock several times.
8. Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the power steering system is functioning properly.

Best Way to Clean Power Steering Reservoir

The best way to clean your power steering reservoir is to remove it from the vehicle, clean it thoroughly with a solvent-based cleaner, and rinse it completely. This allows for the most effective removal of sludge and debris. If removing the reservoir is not feasible, cleaning it in place with a brush and cleaner is an acceptable alternative.

Power Steering Fluid Contamination: Signs and Prevention

Power steering fluid contamination can occur due to several factors:

• Normal Wear and Tear: Over time, internal components of the power steering system wear down, releasing metal particles into the fluid.
• Dirt and Debris: Dirt and debris can enter the system through leaks or during maintenance.
• Oxidation: The fluid can oxidize over time, forming sludge and varnish.
• Mixing Different Fluids: Mixing different types of power steering fluid can cause chemical reactions and contamination.

Signs of Power Steering Fluid Contamination:

• Dark or murky fluid
• Sludge or sediment in the reservoir
• Whining or groaning noise from the power steering pump
• Stiff steering
• Leaks in the power steering system

Prevention of Power Steering Fluid Contamination:

• Regular Fluid Changes: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended power steering fluid change interval.
• Use the Correct Fluid: Always use the type of power steering fluid specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
• Inspect for Leaks: Regularly inspect the power steering system for leaks and repair them promptly.
• Proper Maintenance: Perform regular power steering reservoir maintenance, including cleaning and flushing the system as needed.

Power Steering System Cleaning Procedure: A Summary

The power steering system cleaning procedure involves several steps:

1. Inspect the fluid: Check the condition of the power steering fluid for signs of contamination.
2. Clean the reservoir: Remove and clean the power steering reservoir to remove sludge and debris.
3. Flush the system: Perform a full power steering fluid flush to remove old, contaminated fluid from the entire system.
4. Refill with new fluid: Refill the system with the correct type of power steering fluid.
5. Bleed the system: Bleed the power steering system to remove any air.
6. Inspect for leaks: Check for any leaks in the system and repair them as needed.

When to Seek Professional Help

While cleaning the power steering reservoir and flushing the system can be done as a DIY project, there are times when it is best to seek professional help:

• If you are not comfortable working on your vehicle.
• If you are unsure about any of the steps involved.
• If you suspect there is a more serious problem with your power steering system.
• If you do not have the necessary tools or equipment.
• If you are experiencing persistent problems with your power steering system after cleaning and flushing it.

A qualified mechanic can diagnose and repair any issues with your power steering system and ensure it is functioning properly.

FAQ: Cleaning Power Steering Systems

Q: How often should I clean my power steering reservoir?

A: It’s recommended to clean your power steering reservoir every 2-3 years, or whenever you notice the fluid is dark or contaminated.

Q: Can I use any type of cleaner to clean the reservoir?

A: No, use a solvent-based cleaner specifically designed for automotive use, such as brake cleaner, carburetor cleaner, or a specialized power steering system cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the reservoir or the power steering system.

Q: What type of power steering fluid should I use?

A: Always use the type of power steering fluid specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage the power steering system.

Q: How do I know if my power steering system is properly bled?

A: The steering wheel should turn smoothly and easily from lock to lock without any noise or stiffness. If you hear whining or groaning noises, or if the steering feels stiff, repeat the bleeding process.

Q: Can I damage my power steering pump by running it dry?

A: Yes, running the power steering pump dry can cause serious damage. Always ensure there is sufficient fluid in the reservoir during the cleaning and flushing process.

Q: What if I still have problems after cleaning and flushing the power steering system?

A: If you continue to experience problems after cleaning and flushing the system, there may be a more serious issue with the power steering pump, steering gear, or hoses. Seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.