Power Steering 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.

Remove the ignition coil fuse to disable the vehicle.

Fig 1: Removing Ignition Coil Fuse To Disable Vehicle
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the power steering return hose. Plug the reservoir.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Power Steering Return Hose
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Attach an extension hose between the power steering return hose and an empty container.
Raise the front wheels off the floor.
Fill the reservoir.
- Use Mercon® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid Xt-2-Qdx Or Mercon® Equivalent.
Fig 3: Identifying Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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.
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.
- Add Mercon® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid Xt-2-Qdx Or Mercon® Equivalent As Needed.
Fig 4: Turning Steering Wheel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Lower the vehicle.
Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose. Remove the plug. Attach the power steering return hose to the reservoir.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Extension Hose
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fill the reservoir.
CAUTION: Do not overfill the reservoir.
- Use MERCON® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent.
Fig 6: Identifying Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the ignition coil fuse.

Fig 7: Installing Ignition Coil Fuse
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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.

Fig 8: Turning Steering Wheel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Check the power steering fluid level.
NOTE: If the power steering system is noisy and is accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid it can be necessary to purge the power steering system.

Fig 9: Checking Power Steering Fluid Level
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.