Flushing The Steering System

WARNING: Do not mix oil types. Any mixture or any unapproved oil can lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak can ultimately cause loss of fluid, which can result in a loss of power steering assist.

Remove the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) relay to disable the vehicle. See Fig 1.
NOTE: PCM relay is located in engine compartment fuse box. Engine compartment fuse box is in left front of engine compartment.

Fig 1: Locating Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Relay
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the reservoir from the reservoir bracket. See Fig 2.

Fig 2: Removing Reservoir From Bracket
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the reservoir bracket. See Fig 3.
Disconnect the power steering return hose, see Fig 4. Plug the reservoir.

Fig 3: Removing Power Steering Reservoir Bracket
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Return Hose
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Attach an extension hose between the power steering return hose and an empty container.
Raise the front wheels off the floor.
Fill the reservoir. See Fig 5. Use Motorcraft MECRON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MECRON® fluid.

CAUTION: Do not crank the engine for more than 15 seconds at a time. Allow the starter to cool for 1 minute before cranking again. Premature starter failure can occur. Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump could occur.

Turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop while cranking the engine until the fluid exiting the power steering return hose is clear of all contamination and debris. Add Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent as needed.
Lower the vehicle.
Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose. Remove the plug. Attach the power steering return hose to the reservoir. See Fig 4.
Install the reservoir bracket. See Fig 3.
Install the reservoir to the bracket. See Fig 2.
Fill the reservoir. Be sure not to overfill. Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.
Install the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) relay. See Fig 1.

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump could occur.

Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop.

NOTE: If the power steering system is noisy and accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid it will be necessary to purge the power steering system.

Check the power steering fluid level. See Fig 5. Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.

Fig 5: Identifying Reservoir Filler Cap To Measure Steering Fluid

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.