Acura TL 2004-2008: How to Change Power Steering Fluid
Replacing the powering steering fluid on your Acura is not as hard as your may think. Here is how you do it.
This article applies to the Acura TL (2004-2008).
Ever make a hard left turn that results in a whale screaming under your hood? If so, then you know how a low fluid power steering pump sounds like. A standard hydraulic steering pump uses fluid to work the steering rack underneath your chassis. The whines occur when there are "dry spots" in the pump, which are often derived from a leaking hose. When you replace the hose, you also have to flush the reservoir, which is a process of removing the old fluid and pouring in the new. These following instructions explain how to do just that.
Materials Needed
- Turkey baster
- Power steering fluid
- Pliers
- Rags
- Jack stand
- Drain pan
- Jack
Step 1 – Raise and secure the chassis
Just raise the car up and secure to the proper jacking points. Use the front jack point on car's subframe and set two stands on either side of the car, under the reinforced pinch welds running the length of the underbody.
Step 2 – Begin removing the old fluid
Grab that turkey baster and stick it into the old power steering reservoir. Begin sucking up as much of the old fluid as you possibly can, and injecting it into either the drain pan or an old bottle.
Step 3 – Disconnect the return hose
The return hose connects into a metal fitting at the radiator and into the power steering reservoir. Choose an end and disconnect the hose. Then attach extra tubing to the disconnected hose and place it inside of the drain pan.
Step 4 – Flush the system
Start the car up and twist the steering wheel side to side, reaching each of the locking positions. Continue to do this until the fluid stops draining from the hose. Then turn the car off, connect the return line and refill the reservoir. Turn the car back on and slide the fluid enter into the system; when the pump whines, shut the car off and top of the reservoir.
Featured Video: How to Change Power Steering Fluid on Honda/Acura
Related Discussions
- A-104: DIY-Power Steering Fluid Flush - AcuraZine.com
- Change Power Steering Fluid - AcuraZine.com