GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Important: Do not reuse any drained power steering fluid regardless of appearance or condition.

  1. Turn OFF the engine.
  2. Raise the front end of the vehicle off the ground until the tires and wheels turn freely. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
  3. Place a large container under the fluid return hose in order to collect the draining fluid.
  4. Remove the fluid return hose at the power steering pump reservoir inlet connection.
  5. Plug the reservoir return hose inlet connection on the power steering pump.
  6. Important: This step may require 4 L (4 qt) of power steering fluid until the draining fluid appears clear.

  7. With the key on engine off, turn the steering wheel fully to the left and to the right while an assistant maintains the minimum fluid level in the reservoir using new approved power steering fluid. Continue until the fluid from the return hose runs clear.
  8. Remove the plug from the pump reservoir inlet connection and install the fluid return hose to the pump reservoir.
  9. Important: Do NOT run the engine without the power steering fluid at a minimum system level.

  10. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding.
  11. Inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:
  12. • Milky fluid - water
    • Brown fluid - burnt
    • Plastic debris or dirt chunks
  13. If the fluid is contaminated, repeat steps 2-9.
  14. Lower the vehicle and check the Power Steering system for leaks.