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Dodge Ram 1994-2008: How to Replace Power Steering Fluid

Changing the power steering fluid in your Dodge Ram is a good maintenance choice. It'll keep your steering box clean and noise-free!

By Keith MacDonald - July 29, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram 1500 (1994-2008).

If you're the DIY type of person who likes to keep your vehicle running like new, checking the fluid in your power steering pump reservoir is basic stuff. Changing it, if needed, is a no-brainer process that'll pay off in the long run with the extended life of your Ram. This simple maintenance operation will keep your power steering running efficiently and quietly for years to come.

Materials Needed

  • Turkey baster
  • Empty bottle or jug
  • Paper towels
  • Two quarts of Mopar ATF+4 fluid (or other brands of ATF+4)

Step 1 – Remove the power steering cap

In order to remove the existing (dirty) power steering fluid, you'll need to remove the cap from the power steering reservoir by just twisting it off counter-clockwise.

Figure 1. Remove the cap from your power steering reservoir fill spout.

Pro Tip

Your power steering fill cap is vented, so while you have it, why not give it a good scrubbing with soap and hot water to be certain the vent hole isn't clogged? If you go off-road, your fluid will get very hot due to the harsh conditions, so doing this is especially important. If the vent is blocked, you could possibly blow a pressure hose!

Step 2 – Check the condition of your fluid

This is a simple operation. Draw a baster full of fluid and inspect the color. If it's dark brown or burnt red (or even black), you'll want to flush out the system.

Figure 2. Dark fluid drawn from your power steering reservoir means it's time for a change.

Warning

At the base of the reservoir there is a screen that you don't want to damage with your baster. Be extra careful not to push the baster hard into the fill tube. Easy does it!

Step 3 – Turn engine off and turn steering wheel

Turn your ignition key to "on" but don't start the truck. Turn the steering wheel all the way left to "lock," then turn it all the way to the right. Do not re-center the wheel.

Figure 3. Turn the key to "on" only.

Pro Tip

You might want to jack the front of your truck up enough to raise the front tires off the ground so you can turn the steering wheel easier. Do not start the truck!

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

Step 4 – Remove additional fluid

By turning your wheel to either side, you pumped more old fluid into the reservoir. Use the baster to remove that fluid as well.

Figure 4. Remove additional fluid that has appeared from the steering wheel turn.

Step 5 – Refill the power steering reservoir with new fluid

Pour fresh power steering fluid into the power steering reservoir until you reach the max line.

Figure 5. A funnel and paper towels help keep things neat and reduce smoking, as spilled fluids burn off the block.

Step 6 – Turn wheels all the way left and right again

Be sure your truck is not running!

Turning your wheel all the way to the left, then all the way right, will circulate fresh ATF+4 to the lines. Once this happens, you'll notice the fluid level needs to be topped off. Top it off as needed.

Figure 6.Turning the wheel back and forth a few times will help remove any air bubbles from the power steering system.

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