To keep the system trouble-free after a pump replacement, choose the right used unit and always flush the system first.
Hydraulic power steering is reliable and durable, but it can still fail. Noise or squealing when turning, stiff or loose steering and poor handling often point to a faulty pump. Well-maintained vane pumps last a long time, yet sometimes repair is impossible and replacement is needed.
- If buying a used pump, check its category; the most reliable are units with an old housing but new internals, and pumps rebuilt at a factory or specialist shop, bench-tested and sold with a warranty.
- Always flush the system before fitting a pump; changing the fluid alone leaves metal debris that will damage the new pump.
At MasterService workshops, rebuilt pumps are checked on the MS604 test bench.