Changing The Power Steering Filter & Fluid On A BMW
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 ก.พ. 2025
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In this DIY and How-To video, we'll show you how to change the power steering fluid and filter on a later model BMW or MINI. Follow along as we replace the reservoir/filter and flush the fluid on a 2001 330xi,
The power steering fluid and filter are one of the most overlooked preventive maintenance areas on most BMWs and MINIs. (Think about it -- when did you ever changed the power steering fluid on any vehicle?) On BMWs, this system provides boost not just for the steering but often for the power brakes and self-leveling suspensions, as well. Time and time again, we'll look at the power steering fluid in a BMW or MINI and it is filthy! (Running on old, degraded fluid will shorten the useful life of the steering rack/gearbox, brake booster, fluid pump, etc.) The fluid should be bright, clear red or, depending on the application, just clean and clear
One of the reasons this system gets overlooked is that there is no direct provision for changing the fluid; therefore the job is a bit more tedious. But it is not so tedious that it should be ignored. We recommend a biennial (every other year) or 50,000-mile fluid change for the power boost system. Additionally, most systems have a fluid filter incorporated into the fluid reservoir. (A lot of mechanics do not even know that this filter exists!) Change the filter when changing the fluid. (This is also a great time to replace any leaking power steering hoses.) There are three different fluids used in BMWs and MINIs; the correct fluid is typically noted on a label on the reservoir cap. We can assist in determining the proper filter and fluid for your BMW or MINI.
TOOLS USED:
Fluid transfer pump:
www.bavauto.com...
Hose clamp driver:
www.bavauto.com...
Pig Mat, oil absorbent mats:
www.bavauto.com...
Protective gloves:
www.bavauto.com...
Scrubs In A Bucket hand cleaner wipes:
www.bavauto.com...
PRODUCT USED:
Power steering fluid (Dexron-III, in this case):
www.bavauto.com...
Power steering reservoir/filter:
www.bavauto.com...
Hose and hose clamps:
www.bavauto.com...
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All products noted in this video can be purchased in our online store, www.bavauto.com/, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are also welcome to e-mail us at info@bavauto.com or call into our headquarters and speak to our knowledgeable advisors at (800) 535-2002 (Mon.-Thurs. 8AM to 9PM EST, Fri. 8AM to 7PM EST, and Sat. 9AM to 4PM EST).
Okay , let me be the first to say thank you for the most basic common sense dyi video . You made me like I was working on my Honda again . My 10 month old was in the car with me when my power steering started to fail . Was a crazy experience! Thank you so much for this video ! I’ll be coming back later probably a thousand times to walk myself through when I replace the power steering . Thank you again !
When the cap says ATF, this is Dexron-III automatic transmission fluid. this fluid is quite commonly used for various hydraulic systems, such as the power steering system.
Solid video, just finished doing this job on my E39. I replaced the hoses as well - it was easy enough and I think if you're going through the motions of replacing the resevoir/filter you should probably do the hoses as well.
Thanks BavAuto for a fantastic DIY video!
@swizz85
In flushing the system, simply remove and add fluid (as shown in the video) until the circulating fluid is nice and clear. This generally takes from 2 to 4 quarts. Once the fluid is flushed so that it is continually running clear, you can adjust the final fluid level. This is accomplished by screwing on the cap (and integral dip-stick), with the engine running, and reading the fluid level. We actually forgot to show this, since we have an experienced "eye", for the proper level.
Great and informative video! One question: you mentioned early on in the video that the hoses that circulate the power steering fluid often deteriorate and result in leakage. In this video, though, it appears that you haven't replaced the hoses themselves. If there is leakage, then does that require a full replacement of the hoses in addition to the filter?
Also a good idea to turn the steering wheel both ways after adding new fluid. This way the old fluid in the rack and pinion is pushed out back to the reservoir.
is that the only way of getting the old oil out of the rack?
@Altair8801 -
Yes, on the models that have the plasic reservoirs, the filter is encased in the reservoir. We would assume BMW never intended to actually change the filters as regular maintenance.
Actually, these hoses did need to be replaced, but we did not have them available when the video was done .... and we were just addressing the fluid and filter change. Usually, the leakage is due to the original hose clamps no longer being tight enough to seal properly. If the hose is deteriorated or has any cracking (as this one did), they should be replaced and, of course, this would be a good time to replace the hoses. We do now keep them in-stock at bavauto.com
thank you very much,I did it and it is working perfectly and I did not pay for change my e39 power steering filter,I changed filter,and I liked your work everything clear and clean,
@bnigam - We do recommend replacing the reservoir (on the models with the plastic reservoirs), since the filter is captive inside the reservoir, and cannot be removed. Models that have metal reservoirs, with metal caps, have replaceable filters, down in the base of the reservoir.
This man looks pure professionalist in my eyes. Its pleasure for me watching this video
The hoses that connect directly to the filter reservoir, have quick-disconnect (QD) fittings on the ends opposite the slip-on ends at the reservoir. The QD fittings are next to the radiator (on the E46 3-series, as used in the video). There are special tools for the QDs, but you can separate them by wedging the QD connector away from the joint.
@Thismexican1 -
I'm not sure what you mean about an angle. If the reservoir dues not have the screw-on plastic cap, with a dip-stick, as shown in the video ... it will be one of the various metal reservoirs. These reservoirs have the filter ring at the bottom of the unit, with a metal plate sitting on top of the filter. When you drain the fluid and look down into the reservoir, you see the plate. People commonly think this is the bottom (or floor) of the reservoir. Hence, "false floor".
We used our German hose clamps with size range of 16mm to 25mm. Our part number is CL 16-25 . we have them in our online store at bavauto.com.
Flushing the fluid before replacing the reservoir/filter is certainly a valid approach. No, the fluid will not overrun the reservoir if the engine is running (unless you have it way to full anyway). The final proper fluid level is checked with the engine running, by the way.
The fluid will circulate through the system as long as the engine is running (turning the pump). We do typically cycle the steering left/right once in a while as we are refilling and removing/filling, to get the highest concentration of fresh fluid.
still a nonsense, you're mixing nice new fluid with old, waste of time. Do it properly, or not at all.
Great video!!! One question: If the filter and fluid are for power steering, how come we use ATF fluid? Doesn't ATF stand for automatic transmission fluid??
@BiteDoctor -
Red Line has named this fluid D4. We think this may be due to the fact that it meets the GL-4 fluid specs. The fluid is applicable to Dexron-II, Dexron-III, Mercon and Mercon-V.
As noted in prior replies; Many of the BMW power steering systems use Dexron-III automatic transmission fluid. This is a very common use of the Dexron-III fluid in many vehicles, not just BMW.
Yes, your reservoir will be the same as the one shown on this E46 3-series (99-05). The location is slightly different, but the procedure is similar. If you remove the air filter box and the air flow meter, you will have full access to the hose clamps on the reservoir. Use the same fluid (Dexron-III). All is available in our online store at bavauto.com.
These videos are great! This fellow is concise and precise. Obviously knows BMW's.
Nice video. I have a question. You did not mention bleeding the air out of the system like you would have to do with changing the rad fluid. How is that accomplished? Also if you run the car with and drain the fluid aren't you putting a stress on the power steering system since you are running it with very low fluid????
@yukuhana -
The fluid used in many (most) BMW power steering systems is Dexron-III. This is typically also used for many older automatic transmissions as well as manual transmissions. It is a somewhat universal hydraulic fluid and is most commonly known as automatic transmission fluid, even though this is just one of its many uses.
Hi! Great Video! Do you think it would be a good method to leave the return line of the reservoir disconnected, then turning the engine without fuel and "feed" the reservoir fresh fluid to completely flush the system?
In general, yes, the procedure is the same as shown in the video. However, the reservoir is mounted in a less accessible location, under the intake manifold and behind the alternator (similar to the earlier M50 and S50 engines in the 92-95 E36 325i and M3 models and 91-95 E34 525i models). You must remove the air filter box and intake boot to access the reservoir.
Thanks for your reply. The color of fluid is clear and turned into light brown yellowish. I went to dealership and he also gave me CHF-11 but when I told him he said use what is on the label.
Good morning. Thank you for the video. I want to ask you: why do you change the power steering reservoir? is there a filter in the power steering network? Thank you.
It is really ok. Wipe all with a towel insuring the hole in the cap is not clogged. You need to insure that your fluid cap shows the type of fluid as some models use CHF11S.
@ksvrando -
We import the fluid pump from Europe. The brand is Bavarian Autosport, as we bring it in as our own. We all use these pumps, personally, and they work very well.
Great video. Do I need/should I, turn the steering wheel back and forth all the way to further flush through the system? Thanks.
All that needs to be disconnected for complete flush as opposed to a dilution of the remaining fluid illustrated here is the low pressure hose. A continuous supply of fluid must be assured during this.
I also recommend turning the wheel lock to lock in both cases to extract or involve all the fluid in the rack. This should be done slowly and deliberately twice, pausing for a few seconds at each lock.
@OldUncleMe - All good points, and standard shop operating procedures, as well.
The fluid pump and absorbent mats are offered by Bavarian Autosport at bavauto.com. We would not suggest mixing fluids of different base stocks in the same fluid pump. The pumps are not expensive, so having more than one would not be prohibitive.
This is one of the best instructional videos that I have seen in a long time. I encourage you to continue making videos.
We like to change the power steering fluid about every two years. This can vary depending on how many miles the car is driven as well as the environmental conditions. Certainly change the fluid when it starts to become clouded ... less clear.
As with any other filter, the purpose of the filter is to collect and hold the particulate contaminants that get into the system (or are generated within the system, due to wear). Eventually, the filter becomes saturated, or "full" and cannot hold nay additional contaminants. At this point, you have two negative issues, 1) You may be passing unfiltered fluid through the system. 2) The filter will be effectively "clogged" and the fluid flow will be reduced.
Thanks for the video! Three questions: 1. What is the min-max size of the hose clamps you were using? 2. Why didn't you use the old reservoir first and start adding fresh fluid until it's clear? That way you won't be driving dirty fluid through your new filter. 3. Also, if the fluid is full, won't the fluid spill out once the engine is on? Some people say that will happen :)
A job definitely well done. I only wish my local mechanic took that kind of care and attention towards all our cars.
Excellent video, clear audio and video, very professional.
This is due to the left and right audio channels being out of phase with one another. When played through a monaural audio system, the two channels are combined, and being out of phase, they nullify each other. When played through a stereo system, it is audible, but very thin and weak sounding. This might be worth noting in future videos. I love this series, and will be ordering my new power steering reservoir today!
@sunnyjason -
If fluid is being lost, it will be due to leaks at the hose connection points, a leaking pump or a leaking steering rack or gearbox. An undercar inspection should identify the leaking areas. If fluid is in the boots on the steering rack, the seals in the rack are leaking and the rack must be replaced.
Nice very helpful! what type of fluid should i use for BMW 325Xi 2002? it just shows ATF on the cap i want to know what brand is best for my car... thank you.
Does my 2006 750I Power Steering reservoir contain a replaceable filter or do I need to replace the entre Power steering reservoir? Great video!
if you are changing the pump along with the resivoire do you need to bleed the system....or can you just add fluid till it is full?
If I have leakage at the base of the reservoir because of the clamps getting loose,can I just replace the reservoir,clean up the hoses and put on new clamps. Or will I need to replace both hoses as well?
Good notes. As mentioned, pay attention to the type of fluid noted on the cap.
You may need to clean things up a bit so that you can tell where the fresh leaking fluid is coming from, but it's likely the hoses. The bar you are referencing sounds like it may be the swaybar.
Oh ... you have the self changing fluid option! Very common on many BMWs.
We can certainly get the leakage under control. Have you determined the source(s) of the leakage?
i love it man...now i can change it. what will hppen if there is not enough fluid or not change it for a long time?
Low or dirty fluid can prematurely wear-out the pump and the steering rack or gearbox.
owh i get it..because someone told that as long u can use it..then use it :(
Your best action is to try to flush the system as completely as possible. Either perform the steps shown in the fluid and filter change (including removing and emptying the reservoir), or even disconnecting the lower hoses at the pump and the steering rack to allow them to drain.
not inside the engine, just around the assemblies. i fished around with a metal retriever, but didn't pull anything out. Thanks for the reply, your videos are great.
Should I replace clamps that originally came with hoses that clamp in with crimper? Or use screw clamps
I just observed the same exact leak coming from the container to pump so what's the deal as the guy in video says it comes from soft weakened hose can I not just replace hose and clamp and be done? as you said it does not make sense to change the fluid container if it's in tact, perhaps just flush it out to make sure filter screen is clean . thanks
Hi Guys, your videos are always great and have been very helpful in the maintainance of my cars, thanks
Thanks for great DIY. One question all the other DIY out there specifically warn us not to run the engine with the power reservoir cap off. Is that a nonsense? Should the pressure from the return hose into the reservoir cause fluid shooting out of the reservoir with the cap off and engine on?
How many containers of fluid did it take till you finished? I will be doing this project in the near future and would like to get the materials together.
thanks for the video! I'm wanting to change out the reservoir and power steering lines on my 96 750il...Can I drain the remaining fluid from the pump after the lines and reservoir are replaced, or should I just add the fresh fluid, then circulate it till its running clear?
this seams easy, we just ha an old -96 523 e39 restored, had all the rust done and the whole car repainted, it looks just stunning now for a car that has 285000km on it! I just have to change the hose under the power steering reservoir, its old and leaking a bit.
On BMW and MINI models with the plastic reservoirs, the complete reservoir must be changed, as the filter that is inside is not accessible. Earlier BMW models (and some later models) that have metal reservoirs, do indeed have replaceable filters down in the bottom of the reservoir. We also stock these filters.
hello.
Nice and clear video. ty 4 the post!
a BMW 535i V8 E39 driver from the Netherlands
Did you make a video on changing the power steering fluid and filter?
I'm not sure if how or when the filter(if any) is necessary to be changed.
Mine is a 2007 BMW X3 (E83), 3.0 Si .
For now mine is a problem with a little vibration on near full right turn when going into the driveway, a little less vibration on the left turn.
Slight power loss around the 30mph, but better at higher speeds.
Thanks, Ron
The videos are great. I have a '02 Z3 with and M54. Are the p/s filters available separately or is it integrated into a new housing assembly?
awesome video and thumbs up!
My 745LI only has 75K miles on it and has this EXACT SAME ISSUE. That Normal?
Well, the BMW likely does have a heavier steering feel than the Charger. We did drive a new Charger while traveling in CA (a rental) and noted that the steering was rather numb and highly boosted. As for the sound that you are hearing, we can't tell what it is, from here. you should have someone else take a look at it to get an idea what may be going on.
You may find that you have better access to the reservoir if you remove the engine air filter box, Air Flow Meter or Mass Air Flow sensor (depending on the year) and the intake boot. This would be similar for the 325i/is and 525i models that use the M50 engine and the 95 M3 with the S50.
No, just the steering system. Some older model BMWs use the power steering pump and fluid to boost the power brakes and even the rear self-leveling suspension.
If the label on the cap (or on the reservoir) says ATF vs. CHF-11 (which is the other fluid that may be used in some late model BMWs), then the Dexron-III ATF fluid will be proper (regardless of the color). You did not mention what color the fluid was. The Dexron-III is red, but ages into a gray or brown color. The CHF-11 is clear.
@BavarianAuto Do you need to buy a new reservoir or can you just drain the fluid out and replace?
Thank you very much for your tutoring and knowledge. This will saves me a lot of money on my bmw 330i.
The power steering reservoir has an o-ring. do you wet that with the new steering fluid to properly seal ?
Thank you for your time and videos to teach us. I really appreciate your time in showing me.
Yes, once again very informative video. I am now anxious to do the same procedure for my car. I will put together a parts list and place an order. Thank You Mr. Otto. Thank You.
Was the engine running all the while you were alternately adding the new fluid and pulling some out ?
I think I just may call.
It's a slow leak, but its spread the fluid down two hoses and on that bar underneath, suspension bar? or is it part of the power steering system.. I dunno.
Yes, the fluid is like a muddy purple, not clear, I bought the ti from a 1st owner two - three - years ago.
I may just try that hose replacement only option, but that would require me to lift the car, as ps-reservoir is inside, behind the radiator unlike in this vid, in view and easy to reach.
Many thanks!
Gary
@BavarianAuto the metal reservoir is the one in an angle right? False floor?
We can offer you all of the parts and tools shown in our DIY videos. Go to our web site: bavauto.com (part number for the pump is FP 500) or call our phone specialists at 800-535-2002.
Hi, on a '99 528i is this the same? The filter is in the reservoir? The parts house tells us there is a in line one that is added in. Just trying to make sure its done right for ours. Thank you and the video was great btw. Thank you
You might have wanted to comment more specifically about how to determine what hose goes on which port of the reservoir, if someone didn't remember. The plastic ZF reservoirs have arrows on the sides to indicate the feed and return ports; you didn't mention anything about this. The two ports are different sizes and so they shouldn't be easily confused.
Is the same procedure aplicable for CHF 11S?
I don't want to change the reservoir, but I want to change the fluid just like you said.
Is it ok?
Thanks for demo but I have a question. I recently bought 2010 X5 3.0. It power steering fluid cap says ATF fluid only but the color of fluid is not RED what you think about that? I went to dealership and they gave me other fluid when I told them about this salesperson said then use ATF. Thanks for your help in advance.
just had my 540i in for a check at a local volvo/bmw/porsche specialist and they pointed it out and suggested i get the hose replaced. hose costs $29. labor probably $50. might have them do it or i might just do it myself.
Good point on performing small fluid changes when you do an oil change, to keep the fluid nice and fresh.
Try listening on a different device. We have found that computers with built-in single (mono) audio and speaker typically cannot play the sound track. Thanks for your notes.
Why we need to change that filter instead of chaging only atf? Whats the point? Maybe steering weel is easy to contriol after that?
@BavarianAuto
Quick question, how many times or "cycles" do I add and remove the new fluid while the car is running?
This was a new housing. Is there a gasket or o-ring for the cap if one were to flush but not change the housing?
Do you recommend flushing fluid or just change fluid from the reservoir? is there anyway you can flush fluid?
can i use the red line d4 atf to top off power steering reservoir or do i need to do a flush first. power steering fluid is not leaking or anything like but fluid level is below minimum.
Fellow viewer DahYohLim answered your comment as a reply. The fluid filter is encased in the reservoir. This is the reason that we replace the reservoir.
So in order to replace the filter, one must replace the whole reservoir?
@ksvrando -
We purchase the pumps from our suppier in Europe. There are in a plain white box .... no branding. However, they do work well for most fluids. We have fould that very heavy fluids can cause bypass at the piston (pump) seal, such as Lucas gear oil modifier (you should never use this stuff anyway .......).
When should the power steering fluid be changed? Nice video also!
We recommend that the fluid be changed about every two years, or when it starts to become cloudy.
what caused the leak did you find out?
was it the PS bottle or the hoses?
Wouldn't it make more sense to do the fluid flush BEFORE changing the reservoir, that way you don't drag all the old fluid through the new filter . . .
but then you drag new fluid thru dirty filter :p best way is to put new reservoir onto only one hose (pump suction) and cap other and pour fresh fluid thru fresh filter, till clean fluid flows from return hose, then connect the return hose to new tank and top up.
@Ponga Pandit You 'pump' it using steering rack - turning steering wheel back and forth from lock to lock, I used that methot and it works fine
you need to turn the wheels, if you just let it circulate its just going to flow thru the lines and bypass and not clean the rack much at all. left the car, drain the rack, and turn the wheels.. then fill.. and repeat once more.
yes, it is quite like that to do
Forgot to add, I have a slow leak at the power steering hose(s) which is appearing as a consistent and small leak, plus the power steering fluid looks thick and not clear.
Thanks for your tips BavAuto people!
//Gary
Thank you for the videos they've kept me from alot frustration
@Erikduarte1 -
You do not HAVE to use synthetic. The synthetic is just a better choice. The original fill was not synthetic.
my 740il has a small leak I'm guessing from either the pump or the high pressure line, would that cause it to be harder to turn the wheel than normal even though the reservoir is full?
I'd like to replace the hose that goes from the reservoir to the cooler. How do you disconnect the hose from the cooler? What tools would you use?
The hoses use a quick-disconnect fitting. We offer the special disconnect tool. See the link below:
www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part=CTA3466
Very informative, and incredibly clean work as always. Great videos