Power Steering Fluid

[expectthebest]

Recently I had a leaky steering rack in my 91 318is and had it replaced by a local mechanic. He put regular power steering fluid in instead of the required ATF fluid. Will this cause damage? Can I siphon out the reservoir and replace it with ATF without problems? Thanks!!

[detour54]

Originally posted by expectthebest@Jan 17 2005, 10:58 AM
Recently I had a leaky steering rack in my 91 318is and had it replaced by a local mechanic. He put regular power steering fluid in instead of the required ATF fluid. Will this cause damage? Can I siphon out the reservoir and replace it with ATF without problems? Thanks!!

[snapback]273198[/snapback]

Yes, it could eventually present a problem.

I suggest you flush your power steering system, instead of siphoning.

[97alpineM3]

Good thing to do.. pull one of the connections under the resevior... drain it... then put it back.. and put water in it... turn car on.. move wheel to the extrem left then all the way right... then drain... put in ATF fluid... and move wheel to left and right.. make sure level is correct... and your done..

Peace,

Les

[detour54]

Originally posted by 97alpineM3@Jan 17 2005, 05:00 PM
Good thing to do.. pull one of the connections under the resevior... drain it... then put it back.. and put water in it... turn car on.. move wheel to the extrem left then all the way right... then drain... put in ATF fluid... and move wheel to left and right.. make sure level is correct... and your done..

Peace,

Les

[snapback]273503[/snapback]

Or you could disconnect the return line on the pump. Make sure you put a bucket underneath. Turn the car on and have someone turn your steering wheel while you fill the reservoir. Keep an eye on the bucket, and when you see the same color that your adding coming out, stop.