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Acura TSX 2004-2008: How to Change Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid gets neglected by a lot of people, but old fluid can lead to big problems down the road. Here's how to change it yourself, quickly and easily.

By Brett Foote - May 16, 2016

This article applies to the Acura TSX (2004-2008).

Most cars need hydraulic power-steering fluid that enables the driver to turn the steering wheel without fighting the vehicle. The system consists of a rack and pinion, a piston, power-steering pump, as well as a cylinder containing fluid that is mounted on the pump or remotely mounted for easier access. It is important to check the fluid levels on a regular basis and add fluid as needed to prevent difficult steering.

Acura TSX 2004-2008: How to Change Power Steering Fluid

Materials Needed

  • 3-4 quarts of Honda power steering fluid
  • Funnel
  • Turkey baster
  • Drain pan or container
  • Needle nose pliers
  • Length of tubing

Step 1 – Drain old power steering fluid

Pop the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir. Remove the cap and drain as much fluid as possible from the reservoir with a turkey baster, placing the old fluid in a drain pan or container. Slide the pan under the power steering reservoir (or grab some rags), and use a pair of needle nose pliers to remove the clip holding the upper hose on the power steering reservoir (in Figure 1), carefully so you don't spill any fluid. You can plug the end of the hose if needed with a bolt or clamping pliers if you wish. Attach a length of tubing to the reservoir where you removed the top hose and run the other end in your drain pan or container, which can be set on the ground in front of the car. Start the car and turn the wheel lock-to-lock until there is no more fluid coming out of the hose.

  • power steering fluid reservoir location
    Figure 1. Remove the top hose from the power steering reservoir.
  • draining power steering fluid
    Figure 2. Attach a length of hose to the reservoir and run the other end in a container or drain pan.

Step 2 – Fill the system with fresh power steering fluid

Reinstall the top hose onto the power steering reservoir and replace the clamp. Fill the power steering reservoir to the top line with fresh power steering fluid (around 3-4 quarts). Start the car and allow the engine to come up to operating temperature, then turn the steering wheel from lock-to-lock a few times to bleed all the air out of the system and fill it with fresh fluid. Check the reservoir and fill it up to the top line again if needed, then turn the wheel lock-to-lock a few more times. Repeat this procedure until the fluid stays flush at the top line and there are no more air bubbles coming up through the reservoir. Once finished, replace the reservoir cap and you're done!

changing power steering fluid
Figure 3. Make sure the fluid is always up to mark. Change the fluid when it looks brown to black.

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