Power Steering Fluid
 

I'm not sure when the previous owner changed it out but I figured I might as well do it. 140k miles on a 2002 ES. What brand do I need to use? Can I just flush it out and refill or what is the best method? Thanks.

Look at the cap of the power steering reservoir it tells you what type of fluid to use. I know 92-01 es300 use Automatic Transmission Fluid only..and not power steering fluid.

What brand? Can I just flush it out and refill?

What brand depends on how much you want to spend. You can go with a full synthetic that is Dexron III compatible, or go with something less hard on the wallet. The best method IMO is to flush out the old fluid by removing the return line on the reservoir and routing that to an empty container, raise both front wheels, and turn the steering wheel back and forth while someone keeps topping off the fluid. This will pump out the old fluid safely without starving the pump.

You can use any brand that meets the spec on the cap and or manual.

I believe the older ones say Dex II and the newer ones are Dex III.


I normally do a refresh - and just remove the fluid in the tank. But most cars are never changed.

Mobil1 1 ATF is the best stuff I have used for PSF fluid.

I use http://www.royalpurple.com/power-steering-fluid.html -- no problems here.