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Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: How to Replace Power Steering Fluid

Is it time to change out the power steering fluid in your Jeep Cherokee? This article will show you how to bleed the power steering pump and make sure you complete the job properly.

By Brett Foote - September 21, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

One of the keys to changing out your power steering fluid is to make sure you bleed the system when doing so. Bleeding ensures that you don't have any air in your steering system, which can cause a number of problems. If your power steering becomes noisy, laborious, or begins moaning and groaning when you turn the wheel hard, you probably have air in the system. This is because a hydraulic setup like the power steering is designed to work on pressure, and that pressure is what makes turning the wheel effortless. Keep reading and we'll guide you through the process of changing your power steering fluid, as well as bleeding the system to ensure you don't have any air in your steering setup.

Materials Needed

  • Power steering fluid
  • Funnel
  • Length of vinyl tubing
  • Syringe or turkey baster
  • Catch can
  • Rubber band or piece of wire (optional)

Step 1 – Check the power steering fluid level

Pop the hood and take a look at your current power steering fluid level. Turn the steering wheel left to right, lock-to-lock a few times and recheck. Jacking the front of the car up and placing it on jack stands makes it easier to do this. Also, look to see if your fluid is foamy, as this is an indication that air is getting into the system. If your fluid is low, add fluid so that it comes up to the desired level.

Figure 1. Check your fluid level and the condition of the fluid.

Step 2 – Suction out old fluid

Using your syringe begin to suction the old fluid from the reservoir. Once the reservoir is mostly empty, refill with fresh fluid to the "MAX" line.

Step 3 – Bleed system

Leave the power steering reservoir cap off, and start your Jeep. Cycle the steering wheel back and forth, hitting the lockstops in either direction several times. By leaving the reservoir cap and cycling the steering like that, air is pushed through the system and out of the open reservoir. Don't be surprised if the reservoir level drops a bit as displaced air in the system is replace with fresh fluid.

Step 4 - Rinse and repeat

Repeat steps 2 and 3 by sucking old fluid from the reservoir, replacing with fresh fluid, and cycling the power steering system until the reservoir fluid comes out clean. Top off the fluid to just below the MAX line, and the job is done. Don't forget to replace the power steering reservoir cap.

Figure 2. Put your power steering cap back on.

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