GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 1999 🢒 Savana 🢒 Steering 🢒 Power Steering System 🢒 Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid

Notice: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.

  1. Keep the power steering system clean. Inspect the power steering pump fluid level at regular intervals. Add fluid when required. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
    2. • Flush any dirt from the system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing . If the system is exceptionally dirty, disassemble the pump and the gear before further usage.
    • Inspect all of the tubes, the hoses, and the fittings for leakage at regular intervals. The fittings must be tight. Ensure the clips, the clamps, the supporting tubes, and the hoses are in place and properly secured.
    • Inspect the hoses with the wheels in the straight-ahead position. Turn the wheels fully to the left and the right while observing the movement of the hoses. Correct any hose contact with the other parts of the vehicle that could cause chafing or wear.
    • The power steering hoses and the pipes must not be twisted, kinked, or tightly bent. The hoses should have sufficient natural curvature in the routing in order to absorb the movement and the hose shortening during the vehicle operation.
    • Air in the system will cause spongy action and noisy operation. When a hose is disconnected or when fluid is lost for any reason, bleed the system after refilling. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
    • The fluid level may be inspected hot or cold. In order to check the fluid level when hot, perform the following steps:
         1. Run the engine until the fluid reaches about 80°C (170°F).
         2. Shut the engine OFF.
         3. Remove the reservoir cap.
         4. Inspect the fluid level on the dipstick.
         5. The fluid level should be between the HOT/FULL and the COLD/FULL marks on the dipstick.
    • If the fluid level is being checked cold, perform the following steps:
    • Remove the reservoir cap.
    • Inspect the fluid level on the dipstick.
    • The fluid level should be between the bottom of the COLD/FULL mark and the end of the dipstick.
  2. If the fluid level is low, add the power steering fluid to the proper level.
  3. Install the reservoir cap.
  4. When checking the fluid level after servicing the steering system, bleed the air from the system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .