Changing The Power Steering Filter & Fluid On A BMW

BLOG ARTICLE:http://blog.bavauto.com/7568

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All of the items shown in these videos are available in our online store at http://www.bavauto.com/. Need additional tech help? Please visit our tech blog for thousands of Tech and DIY BMW and MINI articles at: http://blog.bavauto.com/
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In this DIY and How-To video, we'll show you how to change the power steering fluid and filter on a later model BMW or MINI. Follow along as we replace the reservoir/filter and flush the fluid on a 2001 330xi,

The power steering fluid and filter are one of the most overlooked preventive maintenance areas on most BMWs and MINIs. (Think about it -- when did you ever changed the power steering fluid on any vehicle?) On BMWs, this system provides boost not just for the steering but often for the power brakes and self-leveling suspensions, as well. Time and time again, we'll look at the power steering fluid in a BMW or MINI and it is filthy! (Running on old, degraded fluid will shorten the useful life of the steering rack/gearbox, brake booster, fluid pump, etc.) The fluid should be bright, clear red or, depending on the application, just clean and clear

One of the reasons this system gets overlooked is that there is no direct provision for changing the fluid; therefore the job is a bit more tedious. But it is not so tedious that it should be ignored. We recommend a biennial (every other year) or 50,000-mile fluid change for the power boost system. Additionally, most systems have a fluid filter incorporated into the fluid reservoir. (A lot of mechanics do not even know that this filter exists!) Change the filter when changing the fluid. (This is also a great time to replace any leaking power steering hoses.) There are three different fluids used in BMWs and MINIs; the correct fluid is typically noted on a label on the reservoir cap. We can assist in determining the proper filter and fluid for your BMW or MINI.




TOOLS USED:

Fluid transfer pump:
http://www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part...
Hose clamp driver:
http://www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part...
Pig Mat, oil absorbent mats:
http://www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part...
Protective gloves:
http://www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part...
Scrubs In A Bucket hand cleaner wipes:
http://www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part...

PRODUCT USED:

Power steering fluid (Dexron-III, in this case):
http://www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part...
Power steering reservoir/filter:
http://www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part...
Hose and hose clamps:
http://www.bavauto.com/se1.asp?dept_i...

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All products noted in this video can be purchased in our online store, http://www.bavauto.com/, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are also welcome to e-mail us at [email protected] or call into our headquarters and speak to our knowledgeable advisors at (800) 535-2002 (Mon.-Thurs. 8AM to 9PM EST, Fri. 8AM to 7PM EST, and Sat. 9AM to 4PM EST).