GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

SA9180NE Vacuum Tester

Bleed Procedure

Notice: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use power steering fluid meeting. Failure to use the proper fluid may cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.

Important: Bleed the steering system for the following reasons:

   • Components replaced
   • Fluid line disconnected
   • Steering system noise occurs
   • Prevention of pump damage
   • Proper system operation

Important: 

   • Use clean, new power steering fluid type only.
   • Hoses touching the frame, body or engine can cause system noise.
   • The hoses must not touch any other part of the vehicle.
   • Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system.
   • Verify that all hose connection are tight.
   • Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleed procedure.

  1. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
  2. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the FULL COLD level.

  3. Object Number: 898899  Size: SH
  4. Attach the Power Steering Bleeder Adapter (2) to the SA9180NE (1).
  5. Place the Power Steering Bleeder Adapter (2) on the pump reservoir filler neck.
  6. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
  7. Wait 5 minutes. Typical vacuum drop is 2-3 in Hg. If the vacuum does not remain steady, see Special Conditions at the end of this procedure.

  8. Object Number: 898898  Size: SH
  9. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
  10. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
  11. Turn OFF the engine.
  12. Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 8-10 until fluid stabilizes.
  13. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
  14. Important: Do not turn steering wheel to lock.

  15. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
  16. Switch the ignition OFF.
  17. Verify the fluid level.
  18. Remove the pump reservoir cap.

  19. Object Number: 898899  Size: SH
  20. Attach Power Steering Bleeder Adapter (2) toSA9180NE (1) or equivalent.
  21. Place Power Steering Bleeder Adapter (2) on the pump reservoir filler neck.
  22. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
  23. Wait 5 minutes.
  24. Verify the fluid level.

Special Conditions Procedure


    Object Number: 898900  Size: SH
  1. If the vacuum continues to drop, remove the pressure and return hose from the pump.
  2. Install the plugs (1, 2) supplied with the Power Steering Bleeder Adapter into the pressure and return port.

  3. Object Number: 898899  Size: SH
  4. Attach the Power Steering Bleeder Adapter (2) toSA9180NE (1) or equivalent.
  5. Place the Power Steering Bleeder Adapter (2) on the pump reservoir filler neck.
  6. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
  7. If the vacuum drops again, repair or replace the pump. If the vacuum holds steady, continue to check the other parts of the steering system.
  8. Important: 

       • Fluid must be free from bubbles. Be aware of periodic bubbles that indicate a loose connection or pressure hose.
       • Fluid must be free from discoloration.

  9. Observe the fluid.
  10. If condition persists, replace the following parts:
  11. • The return hose clamps
    • The return hose O-rings
    • The pressure hose O-rings
    • The gear cylinder line O-rings
    • The reservoir to pump O-ring
  12. Repeat the bleed procedure from the beginning.
  13. Drive vehicle approximately 16 km (10 mi) to warm system to operating temperature. Evaluate vehicle on a smooth flat surface.
  14. To check for noise problems, verify the following items:
  15. • There is a smooth power assist.
    • The vehicle operates quietly.
    • The pump maintains the proper fluid level.
    • There is no leaking in the steering system.
    • The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.