Power Steering System: Purging

CAUTION: If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, premature power steering pump failure can result. This condition can occur on pre-delivery vehicles with evidence of aerated fluid or on vehicles that have had steering component repairs.

NOTE: A whine heard from the power steering pump may be caused by air in the system. The power steering purge procedure must be performed prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.

Remove the power steering pump reservoir cap. Check the fluid.
1. Use MERCON(R) Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF).
2. Tightly insert the stopper of the vacuum pump into the reservoir.
  
  Fig 1: Inserting Vacuum Pump Stopper Into Reservoir
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
3. Start the vehicle.
4. Apply maximum vacuum and maintain it for a minimum of three minutes with the engine speed at idle.
  
  Fig 2: Applying Vacuum
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
5. Release the vacuum and remove the vacuum pump.
6. Fill the reservoir.
  - Use MERCON(R) ATF.
    
    Fig 3: Filling Reservoir
    Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
7. Reinstall the vacuum pump. Apply and maintain maximum vacuum.
  
  Fig 4: Reinstalling Vacuum Pump
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
8. Cycle the steering wheel fully to the left and right every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes.
9. Stop the engine, release the vacuum, and remove the vacuum pump.
10. Install the reservoir cap.
11. Check for fluid leaks at all of the connections. If the power steering fluid shows signs of air, repeat this procedure.