Ever notice that it’s hard to turn your Ford E-350’s steering wheel? Maybe you can hear a screeching noise when you make a turn? Chances are that you need to replace your Ford E-350 power steering fluid. While it can cost more than $100 if you take it to the repair shop, you can save money by replacing it yourself!
The Ford E-350 has a hydraulic power steering system, meaning that it uses fluid to help you turn. And as with any other fluid, as time passes, you’re going to need to replace it—it might get dirty or run low.
Here to help you replace your Ford E-350’s power steering fluid, is Jerry
, the licensed car insurance
broker and trustworthy super app.
Read on to learn all about power steering fluid and how you can lower your Ford car insurance cost
. What type of power steering fluid does Ford E-350 use?
Since the type of power steering fluid that works best with your Ford will differ depending on when it was made, here’s a list of Ford’s recommendations:
1996- 2006: Motorcraft MERCON ATF
2007- 2014: Motorcraft MERCON V ATF
2015- 2019, 2021-2023: Motorcraft® MERCON® LV Automatic Transmission Fluid
It’s a good idea to stick to these brands, as they work best with your Ford. For more options, visit these websites if you have a Ford E-350 Super Duty
or Ford E-350 Econoline
. How to change Ford E-350 power steering fluid
With a couple of power steering fluid options under your belt, now you’re ready to replace it in your Ford E-350!
Keep the following tools handy:
Something to remove the old power fluid from the reservoir (anything like a shampoo pump or even a turkey baster will work)
Jack and jack stands (optional)
Step 1: Make sure your Ford is parked on a level workspace. Start your engine and wait until it reaches its normal operating temperature.
While the engine is on, turn the steering wheel until it locks, and turn it in the opposite direction until it locks as well. Do this a couple of times. Then, turn the engine off and open its hood.
Step 2: Find the power steering fluid reservoir. It should be near the engine and might have a white or yellow reservoir with a black cap. Make sure to wipe the cap down to prevent any debris from getting in.
Step 3: Next, remove the fluid with your shampoo pump or turkey baster. Check the Min and Max lines, and make sure to fill the reservoir between those lines.
Step 4: Then, disconnect the power steering return line. Loosen the clamps with your pliers, and drain out the rest of the old fluid.
Step 5: Turn your steering wheel back and forth “from lock to lock”—basically make a full turn in each direction. This way, your new fluid will be cycled throughout your system.
You should keep doing this until you notice new fluid coming out. (Note: using a jack to raise your car off the ground will prevent friction on your front wheels.)
Step 6: Last but not least, reconnect your power steering hose and fill the reservoir until you have enough fluid (make sure it’s between the Min and Max lines). Then, run the engine for around 10 seconds, turn the car off, and top up the fluid if necessary.
Once you’re done, check the ground for any fluid leaks. You can also take your car for a drive to test it out—your steering wheel should now be turning smoothly.
What is the power steering fluid change interval for a Ford E-350?
Ford recommends its drivers change out their power steering fluid every 50,000 miles or every two years—whichever comes first.
Here are a couple of signs you should look out for:
Your steering wheel is stiff or difficult to turn
There isn’t any resistance when turning your steering wheel
Strange noises happen when turning
Black or brown fluid in the power steering reservoir
Clean power steering fluid is usually clear pink or amber. Make sure you check on your power steering fluid reservoir every once in a while—this is an important step to maintaining a regular maintenance schedule and maximizing your Ford’s lifespan.
How to save on Ford E-350 insurance
With all of your expenses piling up, it’s a good idea to look for a way to lower your Ford insurance costs
as one way to keep more money in your pocket each month. Jerry
, the car insurance
comparison app, will do all the hard work to find the best insurance deals at your coverage level for you!A licensed broker, Jerry does all the hard work of finding cheap quotes from the top name-brand insurance companies and buying new car insurance. Jerry will even help you cancel your old policy.
And to ensure you always have the lowest rate, Jerry will send you new quotes every time your policy comes up for renewal, so you’re always getting the coverage you want at the best price.
“You must get this app! It’s my first time getting my own insurance, so I called a few companies myself. Their rates priced me around $600/month. I used Jerry
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