Power Steering Fluid Flush
 

I know this has been hashed out before but it was a number of years back so I figure I'll put it out here again.

My '99 E320 (basic) is due for a power steering flush and I want some opinions.
I will be doing the flush whilst the pump is turning, etc.

My real focus is what fluid is alright to use? My daughter went into AutoZone (or Advance) and they told her "dealer item" (I haven't needed to add any since I have had the car so do not have any). No dealer close by and she is in town with the car so I want to do it this weekend so no mail-order. Are the newer "power steering" fluids acceptable for use, anyone have any issues with any of them? I read a post ExxonMobil was supplying the dealer fluid.

Would a name-brand P/S fluid be OK or is it critical I use MB/Febi?

Thanks...

hey,all you need to do is suck out all the old fluid from the can,and i highly recomend using lucas racing products power steering fluid,its fine for all applications,thats what im using,my pump was making a whining noise and it took away the noise,they really use high end oils and polymers,lucas oil products are one of the top products you can buy,i know how mercedes emphysizes greatly in the owners manual the need to use all mb products but theres no need.pick up lucas power steering fluid,one bottle will do the job its about $7.99 at autozone,unless you really wanna go nuts and replace more fluid than whats in the pump.

I used generic fluid from the auto parts store when I did mine. It has been over a year now and no problems. Flushing is way more beneficial than simply evacuating the reservoir. Not sure if the W210 is more picky about fluid, maybe another owner can chime in. You will also want to change the filter but I remember reading somewhere that the filter is part of the entire reservoir assembly requiring you to replace it entirely.

Personally-

I'd just order the MB fluid. Tried the Febi fluid once and the pump was noisy cold- switched fluid back and everything was fine.

No need to do it running. You can fill on one side and let it run out the lower moving the steering wheel back and forth. Works on the older cars sure it works on the newer ones.

There's a filter in the bottom and you can change it. Unless the fluid is contaminated- is it red? or extremely dirty? I'd just suck out the resevoir fluid and replace the filter. Run the car and R&R the fluid again. Do it a few times and you've got a pretty good job of changing fluid.


M

Flush Power Steering Fluid Exchange

You'll need a helper. The steps are rather simple.

1. Lift front tires off the ground.
2. Disconnect the ps return line at reservoir, drain ps reservoir.
3. Plug open connection at the reservoir.
4. Secure the return line to a generously-sized container (at least one gallon). If needed, add a length of hose.
5. Fill reservoir with new fluid.
6. Line up your bottles of new fluid for quick pouring.
Here comes the fun part...
7. Have helper turn car on, and immediately have him go through full range of steering motion (left and right) and shut off car, all the while you are trying to keep the reservoir filled.
8. Button everything back up.
9. Clean up mess.
10. Top off fluid.

The front tires must be off the ground so the system is unloaded, otherwise a lot of fluid is forcefully pumped out. The return line must be secured to prevent a big mess. Keep at least a couple quarts of ps fluid on hand. The helper must know what they are doing.

I use generic ps fluid. An upgrade would be Pentosin CHF 11 S ($$).

Um, just what is the power steering fluid change interval???

I just used Mercon V on my 91560SEL. I have a flush machine at work which is a big help and an easy process. So far after 1k miles, no problems and no leaks. Since your vehicle is newer, I would suggest using what MB recommends. If there is no special fluid MB recommend then trans fluid or generic power steering fluid should be ok. Does your vehicle come with a p/s filter? change that as well

I thought it was pretty much, "Whenever something needs to be replaced." My "flush" was due to a leaking return hose.

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