How to Replace the Power Steering Fluid for Focus?
2 Answers
The method for replacing power steering fluid in a Focus is as follows: 1. Start the car and use an oil extractor to completely remove the old fluid. 2. Inject new power steering fluid, then turn the steering wheel back and forth to allow the new fluid to circulate. 3. Extract the fluid from the power steering reservoir again, then refill with new fluid and turn the steering wheel once more. 4. Perform a third extraction of the fluid and refill with new fluid. 5. Start the car to allow the new power steering fluid to circulate fully. Information about power steering fluid: 1. Power steering fluid is a special liquid used in the car's power steering pump. Through hydraulic action, it makes the steering wheel very easy to turn, similar to automatic transmission fluid, brake fluid, and shock absorber fluid. 2. For cars equipped with hydraulic power steering systems, avoid holding the steering wheel at full lock for extended periods during use, as this can damage the power steering pump.
Changing the power steering fluid for a Focus is actually quite simple, and I do it myself often. You'll need to prepare a few things, like the appropriate steering fluid (Focus usually uses ATF fluid), a funnel, a container for the old fluid, and gloves are a must to prevent slipping. Open the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir, which is typically a small cylindrical container on the left side of the engine bay. Start the car and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the fluid, then turn off the engine. Use a syringe or tube to extract the old fluid, making sure to remove as much as possible without leaving residue. Next, pour in the new fluid into the reservoir, but don't overfill it—leave some space. Start the car again and turn the steering wheel left and right a few times to full lock to purge any air bubbles, then check the fluid level and top up if needed. Be careful not to spill any fluid on the engine during the process, and take the old fluid to a repair shop for proper disposal. Regularly changing this fluid helps protect the steering system, and doing it about every two years is sufficient to avoid costly repairs. The whole process takes about half an hour and is quite hassle-free.
