Bleeding a power steering system

When air enters the hydraulic part, it is necessary to bleed from the power steering system. Air enters the hydraulic section when the steering fluid level is below the minimum or when a part of the hydraulic steering system is removed for repair or replacement. The lack of fluid and the presence of air make it difficult for the servo system to work and thus the handling of the vehicle’s steering wheel, which can lead to more damage to the elements of the power steering system.

Before bleeding, a new steering fluid is added to the reservoir up to the maximum. It is not recommended that the level of fluid in the reservoir is above the maximum. Then we hoist the vehicle or its front end with a jack so that the front wheels are above the ground. Without starting the engine, turn the steering wheel to one side and the other several times. We do this until the air stops coming out of the system into the steering fluid reservoir.

Then we start the engine. The level of steering fluid in the reservoir drops suddenly because the power steering pump pushes fluid into the system. Add new steering fluid to the maximum. While the engine is running, turn the steering wheel back and forth so that the steering fluid reaches every part of the hydraulic system, pushing the air out.

If there is still air left in the hydraulic system while driving the remaining part of the air should leave the steering system on its own. After a few days of driving, it is necessary to check the level of steering fluid in the reservoir and, if necessary, top it up to the maximum.

To bleed a power steering hydraulic system, follow these steps:

Preparation

Check the level of steering fluid in the reservoir and add new fluid to the maximum. Lift the vehicle or the front wheels off the ground with a hoist.

Bleeding without engine running

Without the engine running, the assistant turns the steering wheel left and right. While the steering wheel is turning, observe the fluid in the reservoir. The steering wheel rotates as long as air escapes from the system through the steering fluid in the reservoir. When there are no more bubbles in the reservoir, stop this procedure.

Bleeding while the engine is running

Recheck fluid level. Start the engine. If the fluid level drops, add a new power steering fluid to the maximum. While the helper turns the steering wheel again, observe the fuel in the reservoir. If the fluid no longer falls and there are no bubbles, stop this procedure. We lower the vehicle. After a few days of driving, recheck the power steering fluid level and top up to the maximum if necessary.