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System Flushing

WARNING: Do not mix fluid types. Any mixture or any unapproved fluid could lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak could ultimately cause loss of fluid, which could result in a loss of power steering assist.
  1. Remove the ignition coil fuse number 12 in the fuse junction panel to disable the engine from starting.
    Fig 1: Identifying Fuse Junction Panel
    G02212191Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  2. Disconnect the power steering return hose.
    1. Compress and move the hose clamp.
    2. Disconnect the power steering return hose and plug the fitting to the reservoir.
    Fig 2: Disconnecting Power Steering Return Hose
    G02212192Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Attach an extension hose between the power steering return hose and an empty container.
  4. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir.
    • Use MERCON Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid, XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON approved fluid.
    Fig 3: Filling Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
    G02212193Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. Raise the front wheels off the ground.
  6. CAUTION: Do not operate the starter motor for more than 10 seconds at a time. Damage to the starter motor could result.
    Fig 4: Turning Steering Wheel From Stop To Stop
    G02212194Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  7. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop while cranking the engine until the fluid exiting the extension hose is clean.
  8. Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose and attach the power steering return hose to the power steering fluid reservoir.
    Fig 5: Disconnecting Extension Hose From Power Steering Return Hose
    G02212195Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  9. NOTE: Do not overfill the power steering fluid reservoir.
    Fig 6: Filling Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
    G02212196Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  10. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir.
    • Use MERCON Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid, XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON approved fluid.
  11. Install the ignition coil fuse.
  12. 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 will occur.
    Fig 7: Turning Steering Wheel From Stop To Stop
    G02212197Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  13. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop to stop.
  14. NOTE: If power steering is noisy and accompanied by aerated fluid, it will be necessary to purge the power steering system; refer to PURGING .
  15. Check the power steering fluid level.
  16. Clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). For additional information, refer to CLEARING CODES .