[Quincyhans]

I have a 2000 Outback Wagon with 69500 mls and the dealer suggested that I get a "steering Flushing" done. Is this really necessary, what if I don't get it done. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Saint J VT]

Our OBW has 122,000 miles on it and we never had the steering fluid flushed. However, with my recent work on the car, I flushed the power steering system by unattaching the power steering reservoir then finding out which was the feed pipe to (from) the pump. Once I knew that, I put the one pipe extension on and fed the system new Dexron VI Valvoline Full Synthetic AT oil. When the fluid started coming red (about a quart or so), I stopped, connected the reservoir back up and topped it off with the new fluid.

I have had vehicles go nearly 200,000 miles with the original power steering fluid. You can purchase Power Steering Fluid Conditioner which is supposed to help all the rubber parts and help stop small leaks. I have put some of that in the reservoir, in the past, but used it sparingly.

 

[1 Lucky Texan]

you can use a turkey baster with a piece of hose and swap out a lot of fluid yourself from the reservoir.

use Dexron II or equivalent (I used the Valvoline DEx/Merc stuff) do not grab the cheap, generic 'Power Steering Fluid'.

monitor the fluid while idling for bubbles or foam - sometimes hoses or o-rings leak in air. That needs to be fixed if you see it.

 

[AWDFTW]

What Lucky Texan said.

Some time, a quart of Dex III ATF, and a piece of tubing will change it out for cheap.

 

[Quincyhans]

Thanks guys, I'm sure this is something I can do myself. Sure better than the asking price $150.