Hi, I had my 2003 convertible in for mobil 1 oil change at the local chev dealer. The mechanic said my power steering fluid should be flushed as well as cooling system. 28000 miles. I agree with a cooling system flush every few years but not power steering fluid ? Any one else flush the ps ? thanks Dean

 

Can't hurt especially living in Florida with all the humidity. The system is vented so it's possible to get moisture in the fluid.

 

I just checked the shop manual and there is no recommendation for the change of power steering fluid at any time.

 

My sons '99 just came back from the repair shop, part of the work was to replace the lower steering column (rack & pinion?). We wound up using a used unit and it must of had some water in it as now the power steering resevoir is full of milky fluid...so I would like to know how to flush this system

 

From the manual:

When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks. Refer to Power Steering Fluid Recommendations in this section.

1. Raise and support the front of the vehicle. Ensure that the tires and wheels are free to turn. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

Important

Position the inlet hose or the reservoir hose toward a large container in order to catch any draining fluid.
2. Remove the reservoir hose at the fluid reservoir inlet connector.
3. Plug the fluid inlet connector port on the fluid reservoir.
4. While an assistant is filling the fluid reservoir with fluid, start the engine.
Run the engine at idle.

Notice

Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops while flushing the power steering system. Holding the steering wheel against the wheel stops will cause high system pressure, overheating, and damage to the power steering pump and/or gear.
5. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop.
6. Continue to drain the reservoir until all of the old fluid is cleared from the power steering system.
7. Add approximately 0.94 liters (1 quart) of new fluid in order to flush the system.
8. Inspect the fluid that is draining while you are refilling the fluid reservoir.
9. Do not reuse any drained fluid. If necessary, perform the following steps:
* Replace all of the lines.
* Disassemble and clean the system components.
* Replace the system components.
10. Unplug the fluid inlet connector port.
11. Connect the reservoir hose at the fluid reservoir inlet connector port.
12. Turn the engine off.
13. Fill the fluid reservoir to the C mark on the fluid level indicator.
14. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Bleeding the Power Steering System in Power Steering.

 

There are quite a few things the manual does not specify an interval or service life for but that doesn't mean it's not a good idea. The clutch fluid in manual transmission cars gets extremely dirty and should be changed often. Brake fluid will get a very dark color and will benefit from occasional changes. Engine coolant certainly should be changed when testing indicates a need.

 

My mechanic recommended changing the power steering fluid when I changed all the other fluids after buying the car, so I had him do it. Cheap preventive maintenance. The car had also been in Florida for a number of years.

 

Be sure to use GM power steering fluid.. its so good thats all we will use with our super late model dirt cars..JOHN