How to Remove Power Steering

The power steering system in your vehicle makes it easier to turn the steering wheel by giving the driver a power assist using hydraulic fluid and a pump, called a power steering pump. The power steering system does this by applying force to the steering gear. This then causes torque to be applied to the steering axis of your vehicle's wheels. Over time, the power steering system may wear out. If this happens, it must be removed.

Things You'll Need

  • Socket wrench and socket set Catch pan Screwdriver Masking tape Permanent marker
  • Open the hood of your vehicle and locate the power steering pump.

  • Disconnect the power steering fluid hoses at the pump. To do this, use a screwdriver to remove the hose clamps. Turn the retaining screw on the hose clamps counterclockwise until the clamps loosen enough for you to slide them off the end of the hose. Then, pull the hoses off the power steering pump. Note the difference between the pressure and the return hoses. Wrap some masking tape around each one and label it with a permanent marker.

  • Place a catch pan under the vehicle and lower the return line into the pan.

  • Turn the vehicle on and turn the steering wheel from side to side until all the power steering fluid drains out of the system.

  • Unbolt the bolts holding the power steering reservoir in place and remove it.

  • Remove the power steering pump mounting bolts with the socket wrench.

  • Note which bolts came out of which hole. Wrap each bolt in masking tape and label with a permanent marker.

  • Remove the belt. The power steering/accessory belt should come off easily now that the pump mounting bolts have been removed. There is nothing holding tension on the accessory belt.

  • Pull the power steering pump out of the engine bay along with the accessory belt.

  • Disconnect the supply line from the steering rack using a socket wrench (turn the bolt counterclockwise).

  • Disconnect the return line from the steering rack (turn the bolt counterclockwise).