Changing Power Steering Fluid

[chim500nj]

How often should this be done?, the fluid looks a bit past its best and it is wheezing and hissing a bit when turning at very low speeds

I take it this is a small job to do for a specialist?

[Ireland]

It's possible to do it DIY if you have access to a lift / pit and someone "reasonably" mechanical to help you out.

[Buffoon]

Popping the hose off the steering rack that is fed by the filler / expansion tank will get the worst of the fluid out. but if you want a really quick fix, syphon the filler and top up again with clean ATF once in a while to keep the fluid reasonably fresh. Fluid is cheap so won't do any harm

[chim500nj]

Buffoon said:

Popping the hose off the steering rack that is fed by the filler / expansion tank will get the worst of the fluid out. but if you want a really quick fix, syphon the filler and top up again with clean ATF once in a while to keep the fluid reasonably fresh. Fluid is cheap so won't do any harm

I was thinking of using the Pump I use to clean out the fish tank (this is a little plastic four foot pump) and getting as much out of there as I can and then top up.

[chim500nj]

Buffoon said:

Popping the hose off the steering rack that is fed by the filler / expansion tank will get the worst of the fluid out. but if you want a really quick fix, syphon the filler and top up again with clean ATF once in a while to keep the fluid reasonably fresh. Fluid is cheap so won't do any harm

I know have a little syphon pump am I best doing this after I have taken the car for a run or does it not matter?