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Dodge Ram 2009-current: How to Change Power Steering Fluid

Whether your pump is squealing or vibrating when you turn, sometimes the problem is the simplest component of the system. Read this article to learn how to replace the power steering fluid in your Dodge Ram.

By Neftali Medina - July 27, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram 1500 (2007-2013).

Is your truck squealing when you are turning? The problem may not be as bad as it sounds. In fact, in most cases you just need to check your power steering fluid to get an idea of what is wrong. The power steering system in your Dodge Ram uses a special fluid that allows the hydraulic system to operate. If the fluid gets too dirty, the consistency will change, causing the pump to work harder, resulting in the squealing noise. The good news is all you have to do is flush the power steering fluid to get the truck back to operating smoothly. Use the following instructions listed here to replace the power steering fluid in your Dodge Ram.

Materials Needed

  • Turkey baster
  • 2 quarts of ATF+4 Power steering fluid
  • Jack
  • Jack stands
  • Drain pan
  • Pliers
  • Rags

Step 1 – Raise truck

  • Use a jack to raise your truck's chassis.
  • Secure it in place using jack stands on level ground.
Figure 1. Raise and secure the truck.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Truck - Dodgeforum.com)

Step 2 – Locate the fluid reservoir

  • Locate the power steering reservoir. It's marked off with a black cap near the engine. (Refer to Figure 2.)
Figure 2. Locate the power steering reservoir.
  • Check the power steering fluid's color.
Figure 3. Use a turkey baster to check the power steering fluid.

Step 3 – Remove old power steering fluid

  • Continue to suck the old fluid out of the system using the turkey baster.
  • Empty the removed fluid into an empty drain pan or bottle.
  • Turn the steering wheel to fill the pump and remove it again using the turkey baster.
Figure 4. Empty the power steering fluid into a bottle.

Step 4 – Drain the rest of the fluid

With most of the fluid out of the truck, you can make your way under the chassis to empty the rest of it.

  • Locate the low pressure return line.
  • Use pliers to remove the clip holding it in place.
  • Remove the tube and place it into a catch can or empty container.
  • Allow the system to fully drain.
  • Figure 5. Disconnect the low pressure return lines.
  • Figure 6. Catch the fluid using an empty bottle.

Pro Tip

While draining, you can turn the truck on for a few seconds to cycle the rest of the power steering fluid and remove it from the system.

Step 5 – Refill the power steering system

  • Install the low pressure hose back on.
  • Grab the ATF+4 fluid and pour it into the reservoir; the system will take approximately 2 quarts.
  • Turn the truck on and turn the steering wheel; doing so will help remove any remaining air from the system.
  • Check the fluid and top it off if necessary.
  • Figure 7. Type of power steering fluid you need.
  • Figure 8. Pour fluid back into the power steering system.

Featured Video: How to Flush Your Power Steering Fluid

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