How to Replace a Power Steering Pump

Before you replace your power steering pump make sure you have diagnosed the problem properly. There are two components involved in the power steering system, the power steering pump and the power steering gear. There are a number of tell tale signs that can point to the power steering pump. You can have power steering fluid leaks, rattles, whines or growls. Also be alert to the steering effort needed to turn the wheel, either too easy or too hard in one or both directions. Inspect the power steering fluid level on level ground with the engine off. Look for any indication of contamination like; milky fluid, brown fluid or any debris like plastic or dirt. Flush the system completely with new fluid. Sometimes a slow leak will drain the reservoir and cause your power steering pump to labor because it is low on fluid. Finding and fixing the source of the leak is a good first step in repairing the problem, but not a guarantee that the pump is going to be okay. Running a hydraulic pump without fluid can permanently damage the unit. Inspect the power steering fittings, hoses, reservoir, cooler and pump for leaks. Inspect that all fittings are tight. If the pump must be replaced here is how you do it.

Before you begin start by parking the car on a level surface with the engine off. Make sure the parking brake is on with the transmission in park. Be sure to wear protective eyewear, clothing and gloves because you will be dealing with power steering fluid.

Tools and Supplies Needed to Complete the Job

1. Wrench Set

2. Sockets with Ratchet and Extensions

3. Power Steering Pulley Removal and Installation Tool

4. Power Steering Fluid

5. Replacement Power Steering Pump

Instructions

Step 1 - Make sure to place a drain pan or fluid catch below the pump.

Step 2 - Remove the serpentine drive belt and power steering pulley.

Step 3 - Disconnect the power steering return hoses from the pump. Watch for fluid draining out of the hoses.

Step 4 - Remove the power steering pump rear mounting bracket nut from the engine.

Step 5 - Remove the power steering pump mounting bolts and remove the accessory bracket.

Step 6 - Remove the power steering pump.

Step 7 - Remove the power steering pressure hose from under the pump.

Step 8 - Install the rear bracket onto the power steering pump and tighten.

Step 9 - Install the power steering pressure hose to the pump and tighten.

Step 10 - Install the power steering pump mounting bolts and tighten.

Step 11 - Install rear mounting bracket to engine stud and tighten.

Step 12 - Install power steering return hoses to the pump.

Step 13 - Install accessory mounting bracket.

Step 14 - Install power steering pulley and tighten.

Step 15 - Fill and bleed the power steering system

(note: its normal for the power steering system to have small bubbles in the fluid when the system is refilled and engine started. This will create a whining noise that should go away in about thirty miles. At this point you should recheck the fluid level.)

Best Practices

• Always replace the serpentine belt when replacing the power steering pump
• Make sure all mounting hardware is tight to the engine block or cylinder head.
• Flush the power steering system with new fluid. (note: if there are metal flakes in the fluid you may need to flush the system more than once).

If further assistance is needed, our certified car repair technicians are ready to answer your car questions. Also, gain manufacturer specific instructions and information by clicking - Auto Repair Manual

Related Car Repair Information

• Power Steering Pump Questions
• How Does Power Steering Work?
• Changing a Serpentine Belt
• How to Fix Steering Wheel Shakes While Braking
• Repair Power Steering Problems
• Steering is Making a Growling Noise
• Checking Power Steering Fluid