Bleeding powersteering fluid

[darkcherrymetallic]

Hello. I have a 2002 supercharge gtp. I was wondering how often one should change the powersteering fluid? Is it a good preventative practice? If yes, is there a simple way to do it?

Thanks.

[GTP Dad]

I really don't know that it ever needs changing. Just maintain it at a proper level and it should be fine. If you want to change it then simply suck the majority of the fluid out of the reservoir with a turkey baster and refill with new power steering fluid.

[BNaylor]

Lynn is absolutely correct. Even up to the 2002 model year GM does not specify any interval for replacement of the power steering fluid.

The best test to check the condition of your power steering fluid is to remove the cap and put what is on the level indicator on a white paper towel. If still amber looking or clear then it is fine. If discolored or dark in appearance then it indicates a problem or hose breakdown. Dealers and a lot of lubrication maintenance shops can do speedily replacement of up to 95% of the fluid with fluid exchangers just like the ones used for automatic transmissions, of course, at a nominal charge.


When in doubt and if you are very maintenance conscious like a lot of us are, here is a general rule most automotive mechanics may follow:

Change it as often as you would your engine coolant. Power steering fluid of the "long-life" variety should be changed every five years or 100,000 miles. For conventional fluid, the interval is every three years or 50,000 miles.