How to bleed power steering: 6 steps
Your car’s power steering system plays an important role by making it easier to turn, especially at slower speeds. Most power steering systems, especially those in older cars, work on hydraulic pressure. If any air gets in the system, it can damage the power steering pump and increase the effort required to steer. But we’re here to show you exactly how to take care of the issue on your own — and save yourself some money.
We’ll guide you through the simple steps to bleed your power steering. Before we get started, let’s tackle some common questions.
How long does it take to bleed your power steering?
Like any DIY auto maintenance, it depends on your skill level and experience. The project should take about an hour, but much less if you’ve done it before.
What happens if you don't bleed power steering? If there’s air in your car’s power steering system, you’ll notice it becomes difficult to steer and your car may make a growling noise. Driving with air in the system can also cause the steering pump to fail. So if you have difficulty steering, you’ll want to check it out as soon as possible.
Keep an eye out for signs such as these:
- Steering wheel is hard to turn
- Noise when turning (many mechanics say it sounds like a growling cat)
- Steering pump makes a whining sound
- Steering fluid is low, foamy or has bubbles
- Leaks from the steering system
How does air get into the steering system in the first place?
There are a few ways this can happen:
- You’ve recently performed maintenance on the steering system (e.g., replaced a part or disconnected any hoses)
- There’s an imperfect seal due to a damaged hose, fitting or other component
Now let’s get to work.
Time required
Allow about 1 hour
Tools & supplies
- Power Steering fluid
- Ramps or jack and jack/axle stands
- Wheel chocks (to place behind the tires after the car has been raised)
- Funnel to add steering fluid
- Rags for cleanup
- Work gloves and safety goggles
- A friend or neighbor (optional; but can be helpful for Step 6)
NOTE: The method to bleed power steering can vary for different vehicles. So be sure to check your owner’s manual for any model-specific recommendations.
6 steps to bleed power steering
Step 1: Check for trapped air
Open your garage, start your car, and let it idle for about 20 minutes to bring the engine to operating temperature. Then turn the steering wheel to the left and right about 15 times. This will push air from the system. Shut off the engine, open the hood and check the steering fluid reservoir. If the fluid has foam or bubbles, there’s air in the system.
Step 2: Get your car ready
Park on level ground and turn off the engine. Make sure you let the engine cool before touching any parts.
Step 3: Inspect the steering fluid
Pop the hood and remove the cap from the steering fluid reservoir. Check the fluid. If it’s low, add more to top it off to the “Full Cold” level. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended type of steering fluid for your car, such as Castrol GT Power Steering Fluid.
Step 4: Raise the front wheels of your car
You can use a floor jack to elevate the car and then secure it with jack stands. You can also elevate the car with ramps. Since you’ll need to steer the car in the next step, it will be much easier if the front wheels are off the ground.
Step 5: Start the car and turn the steering wheel
Slowly turn the wheel back and forth about 20 times. This process will force trapped air out of the system. Make sure you do not hold the wheel against the stops for longer than five seconds as it creates an increase in system pressure that can damage seals and hoses.
Step 6: Monitor the steering fluid level
Here’s where a friend or neighbor can really help. While you’re turning the wheel, have them monitor the steering fluid for bubbles. If the fluid level starts to go down (because the air is being pushed out), you may need to add more fluid.
When you’re convinced that there are no more bubbles, and the steering fluid is full, you’re all finished. Close the hood, lower your car and consider it a job well done!
One final note:
If you can’t seem to get all the air out, there could be an issue with your power steering pump. at that point, you may want to consult a mechanic.
One final note:
If you can’t seem to get all the air out, there could be an issue with your power steering pump. at that point, you may want to consult a mechanic.
