Here's a general overview of the process. Remember this is *not* a substitute for a proper repair manual:
1. Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. This prevents accidental electrical shorts.
* Work in a well-ventilated area. Power steering fluid is harmful if ingested or comes into contact with skin. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
2. Preparation:
* Gather necessary tools: This will likely include various wrenches (metric), sockets, a power steering pump pulley puller, a new power steering pump, new power steering fluid (the correct type for your vehicle), a drain pan, jack stands, and possibly a torque wrench.
* Position the vehicle: Securely raise the front of the vehicle and place it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Drain Power Steering Fluid:
* Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. There's usually a drain plug or a way to siphon the fluid out. Carefully drain the fluid into a suitable container.
4. Access the Power Steering Pump:
* This will vary depending on the engine configuration. You'll likely need to remove some components to get adequate access to the pump. This *could* include things like:
* Serpentine belt: You'll almost certainly need to remove the serpentine belt.
* Various pulleys: Some pulleys might need to be removed to access the pump.
* Other components: Depending on the vehicle, you might need to disconnect other hoses or brackets. This is where your repair manual is invaluable.
5. Remove the Power Steering Pump:
* Disconnect the hoses: Carefully disconnect the pressure and return hoses from the pump. Be prepared for some fluid leakage. Have rags ready. Mark the hoses to ensure correct reinstallation.
* Disconnect electrical connectors: If there are any electrical connectors to the pump, disconnect them.
* Remove the pump mounting bolts: Carefully remove the bolts holding the pump to the engine.
* Remove the pump: Once the bolts are removed, the pump should come free. It may be helpful to use a pry bar (carefully!) to help loosen it.
6. Install the New Power Steering Pump:
* Install the new pump: Install the new pump, ensuring it's properly seated.
* Reconnect the hoses: Carefully reconnect the pressure and return hoses to the new pump, ensuring a tight seal.
* Reconnect electrical connectors: Reconnect any electrical connectors.
* Reinstall mounting bolts: Install the mounting bolts and tighten them to the specifications outlined in your repair manual (crucial for proper operation and preventing leaks).
* Reinstall pulleys and serpentine belt: Reinstall any pulleys and the serpentine belt that you removed earlier.
7. Refill and Bleed the System:
* Refill the power steering fluid reservoir: Add the correct type and amount of power steering fluid to the reservoir. Your repair manual will specify the type and quantity.
* Bleed the system: The air needs to be bled from the system. This usually involves turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times while someone else adds fluid to the reservoir as needed. Your repair manual will describe the specific bleeding procedure.
8. Check for Leaks:
* Carefully check for any leaks around the power steering pump and hoses after starting the engine.
9. Final Checks:
* After ensuring everything is working correctly, lower the vehicle and test the power steering.
Disclaimer: This is a generalized guide. The exact procedure will vary depending on the specific year and model of your vehicle. Improperly performing this repair could result in damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself. Consult a repair manual and consider seeking professional assistance if you are not comfortable with auto repair.
