Power steering flush

[Zadams31]

So everytime I take the 4runner in to get serviced they tell me I need to do a power steering flush. I have 142,000 on the car and haven't done it before is this something that is necessary?

 

[mizak82]

I did it with my left over atf fluid. Easy job. Take off the hose closest to the front of the car. Stick a tube in it, then run the tube to a gallon jug to catch the dirty fluid. Once set up. Fill reservoir to the top. Then turn wheel near lock to near lock once. If you turn the wheel more than that without refilling the reservoir it would be empty and you get air in the system. So check it. Refill it. Turn wheel again. Repeat until it's only new fluid coming out. 45 minutes. Maybe.

Good for peace of mind.

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[ZiaMan]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/153106-power-steering-fluid-atf-return-line.html

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/196551-power-steering-fluid-change.html

 

[blackoutt]

It only needs to be done if you like turning? Seriously though that's a lot of miles on any fluid. I've surely owned cars with worse in the past so you're probably okay but I bet the fluid is burnt, black, high water content, not doing it's job to lube and protect the internal components and seals of your steering pump and rack. It's a simple enough DIY so you might as well get your hands a little dirty and save a few bucks.

 

[KBToys]

Every time I change the engine oil i usually suck up the ps oil in the reservoir and put new atf in

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[ben550]

I have changed mine out. Good to get the old fluid out. Good preventative maintenance.

 

[j4run]

Did mine today and was really glad. Only 70,000 miles, but the old fluid was brown; new was clear. There are many discussions on these forums about what fluid to use so I went to the dealer. They sold me a qt of Mag1 OEM PS fluid for $6.50. The local dealer has a good reputation and they use this fluid in all Toyota models. It's a very quick, easy and inexpensive job. I'll flush again in 3 yrs or 50,000 miles, or sooner if the fluid looks dark or dirty.

I don't know if it's 'necessary' at 142k but it sure seems like a good idea. Just look at your fluid - if it's not transparent (clear), I'd change it. I don't think there's a consistent color, but it should not be cloudy or opaque.