Safety First:
* Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Use jack stands to securely support the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Have the correct tools before you begin.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Wrench set (metric)
* Socket set (metric)
* Ratchet
* Power steering fluid (the correct type for your vehicle – check your owner's manual)
* Drain pan
* New power steering pump
* Possibly a power steering pump pulley puller (depending on the pump design)
* Torque wrench
* Shop rags or paper towels
Steps (General):
1. Prepare the Vehicle: Raise the vehicle and securely support it on jack stands. Locate the power steering pump; it's typically located on the engine, often driven by a belt.
2. Drain the Power Steering Fluid: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. Remove the cap and carefully drain the fluid into a drain pan.
3. Disconnect the Power Steering Lines: This is crucial. There will be high-pressure and low-pressure lines connected to the pump. Use wrenches to loosen the lines carefully. Have a container ready to catch any remaining fluid that might spill. Mark the lines or take photos before disconnecting to ensure correct reinstallation.
4. Disconnect the Belt: Use a wrench to loosen the belt tensioner. Once the tension is released, remove the belt from the power steering pump pulley.
5. Remove the Power Steering Pump: Depending on your Malibu's specific configuration, you might need to remove the pump mounting bolts. Some pumps might also have a pulley that needs to be removed first using a pulley puller. Once the bolts are removed, carefully remove the pump.
6. Install the New Power Steering Pump: Install the new power steering pump, ensuring it's correctly aligned. Tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
7. Reconnect the Power Steering Lines: Carefully reconnect the power steering lines, ensuring they are securely attached. Double-check your markings or photos to ensure correct connection.
8. Reconnect the Belt: Reinstall the serpentine belt, ensuring it's properly routed around all the pulleys.
9. Refill the Power Steering Fluid: Add the correct type of power steering fluid to the reservoir, checking the fluid level frequently.
10. Bleed the System (Important): Start the engine and let it run for a short time, turning the steering wheel fully to the left and right several times. Check the fluid level again and add more if necessary. You may need to repeat this process until no air bubbles are visible in the fluid reservoir.
11. Lower the Vehicle and Test: Lower the vehicle and test the power steering. Check for any leaks around the pump and lines.
Important Considerations:
* Consult a Repair Manual: This is absolutely crucial for accurate instructions and torque specifications for your specific 1999 Chevy Malibu.
* Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Incorrect installation can lead to serious damage.
* Fluid Type: Use the correct type of power steering fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer.
This is a simplified overview. The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your specific vehicle's configuration. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 1999 Chevy Malibu for precise instructions. Be careful and prioritize safety throughout the entire process.
