Power Steering System Bleed

Use clean, new power steering fluid type only.

Hoses touching frame, body or engine may cause system noise. Verify that hoses do not touch any other section of vehicle. Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into steering system. Verify that all hose connections are tight.

Power steering fluid level must be maintained throughout bleed procedure.

With hydro-boost only, oil level will appear falsely high if hydro-boost accumulator is not fully charged. Do not apply brake pedal with engine OFF. This will discharge hydro-boost accumulator.

1 Fill pump reservoir with fluid to minimum system level, "FULL COLD" level, or middle of hash mark on cap stick fluid level indicator. 2 If equipped with hydro-boost, fully charge hydro-boost accumulator, noting following: a. Start engine. b. Firmly apply brake pedal 10-15 times. c. Turn engine OFF. 1 Raise vehicle until front wheels are off ground. 2 Key on engine OFF, turn steering wheel from stop to stop 12 times. Vehicles equipped with hydro-boost systems or longer length power steering hoses may require turns up to 15-20 stop to stops. 3 Verify power steering fluid level per operating specification. 4 Start engine. Rotate steering wheel from lefthand to righthand. Inspect for signs of cavitation or fluid aeration (pump noise/whining). 5 Verify fluid level. Repeat bleed procedure, as required.

Performing a power steering system bleed on a Chevrolet Captiva (C100, C140)involves several steps outlined in the service and repair manual. Start by ensuring the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off. Put on safety gloves and eye protection before beginning the procedure. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood of the vehicle. The reservoir is typically labeled and can be identified by its location near the power steering pump. Open the reservoir cap and inspect the fluid level, ensuring it is within the recommended range. Attach a power steering system bleed kit or a suitable bleeding tool to the power steering pump's fluid reservoir. The bleed kit typically includes hoses and fittings that allow air to escape from the system during the bleeding process. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to circulate the power steering fluid and remove any air bubbles trapped in the system. Keep an eye on the fluid level in the reservoir and add more fluid as needed to maintain the proper level. Continue bleeding the power steering system until no more air bubbles are visible in the fluid and the steering feels smooth and responsive. Once complete, turn off the engine and securely replace the reservoir cap.

Test the power steering by turning the steering wheel while the vehicle is stationary and then driving at low speeds to ensure proper steering functionality. If the steering feels firm and responsive without any unusual noises, the power steering system bleed is successful.