Changed out P/S Fluid Today *pics*

[Junster]

I've done this couple years ago and works great. Eliminated the squeaky noise as well.

[JCL]

Originally Posted by X5 Meister

While this is probably a good thing to do as regular maintenance, you really should also change the filter for obvious reasons.

Do you replace the reservoir to get to the non-removable filter? Seems like that may be overkill. I would look to changing the filter if I had a component failure that put metal in the system.

If one wanted to do a more complete job than using a syringe to change only the small amount of fluid in the reservoir, I think the best would probably be to drain the pump at the same time. If doing just the reservoir, I would think it would take a lot more than 2 cycles to change a significant portion of the fluid.

[X5 Meister]

In previous cars I've always drained the pump as the reservoir method always seemed terribly lacking. I've read that the fluid really never needs changing unless there was a leak or dirt was introduced or some components were replaced, etc. and in those cases changing out the reservoir (with integrated filter) was recommended. Cost is around $40 or so for the filter which is cheaper than some other BMW filters.

Originally Posted by JCL

Do you replace the reservoir to get to the non-removable filter? Seems like that may be overkill. I would look to changing the filter if I had a component failure that put metal in the system.

If one wanted to do a more complete job than using a syringe to change only the small amount of fluid in the reservoir, I think the best would probably be to drain the pump at the same time. If doing just the reservoir, I would think it would take a lot more than 2 cycles to change a significant portion of the fluid.

[dkl]

Originally Posted by princemoe2m

am thinking on changing my p/s as well
has anyone tried M1 or u guys dont recommend it and only go with cas dex III

Mobil 1 Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

I've used M1 without issue.

[sethro]

Originally Posted by TheGodfather

I always thought stiff steering was good? Or am I confusing that with "responsive steering."

I have found that ever since I put the big wheels on, the steering wheel has too much play, and its not as stiff as I like. Where as the new X has a nice responsive feel.

Steering components getting worn?

Would changing the PS fluid help this any?

The steering is still stiff in typical BMW fashion. It's just that it feels lighter when turning at low speeds, it still feels precise and hard just much smoother.

Just for comparison I drove a Merc E350 and the steering on that car is so effortless you could turn it with your pinky finger no joke.

[sprocket1200]

actually, being able to turn it with your pinky is a joke.

and you live in TO, why is your beer in the fridge??

[Werewolf]

Originally Posted by sethro

It's very strait forward procedure, here is what I did

- Go to your local parts store and pick up some Dextron III compatible automatic transmission fluid.
- Go to any Wal-Mart and get a turkey blaster
- Now pop up your hood and locate the power steering reservoir, look behind the radiator. It has a unmistakable cap which looks like a gear and says "ATF Only"
- Suck out the old dirty fluid with your turkey blaster
- Fill the reservoir with fresh ATF fluid
- Now go for a drive and turn the steering all the way to the left and right
- Repeat by draining and refilling, at this point the system should have 80% fresh bright pink ATF fluid
- Most important step is to grab a cold beer from the fridge and admire how light the steering feels now

What kind of beer?

[JCL]

More importantly, what is a turkey blaster? Sounds like some type of pilgrim shotgun.

(You can use a baster, but they drip. Using a syringe instead prevents dripping.)

[FSETH]

Originally Posted by JCL

More importantly, what is a turkey blaster? Sounds like some type of pilgrim shotgun.

Awesome. I Didn't catch that one.

[sprocket1200]

poor turkey, gets blasted twice!