You can replace your 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s power steering fluid by draining out the old fluid and then refilling it with brand-new Valvoline fluid. In Grand Cherokees, the power steering reservoir has a black or yellow cap.
Power steering issues can be scary. From stiffness in the steering wheel to screeching while turning the wheel, this is a problem you should take very seriously! Start by replacing the power steering fluid in your Grand Cherokee—it’s easier than you think.
Here’s a quick guide from Jerry
, the super app for car insurance
savings. We’ll explain everything, like where to find the power steering fluid reservoir, how to remove the old fluid, which brand of fluid is best for a Jeep, and key signs you may need to replace the fluid. You can also use our app to save money on your Jeep Grand Cherokee insurance costs
! How do I replace my 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s power steering fluid?
With a few simple tools and about thirty minutes, you can replace the power steering in your Jeep all by yourself. Here are the steps:
Find the power steering reservoir. In your Jeep, it should have a yellow or black cap. Your owner’s manual should have a diagram to help you locate it
Unscrew the cap and insert a pump into the reservoir. If you have a clean pump tube from an old shampoo bottle, use this
Pump out the old fluid. Carefully pump out the old fluid into a container. It’s helpful to cover the surrounding parts with rags to prevent the fluid from causing damage
Refill the reservoir with new fluid and replace the cap
You did it! If you need to completely flush the system—like if the fluid is contaminated—then you need to add a few extra steps:
Disconnect the fluid line
Drain the system completely. You can squeeze out the last of the dirty fluid by moving the steering wheel back and forth between lock positions
Don’t have the skills (or time) to do it yourself? Just bring your Jeep to a mechanic
. Here are the pros and cons of hiring a professional. MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid
Should I change it myself or take it to a mechanic?
If you’re comfortable working on cars and you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, then by all means, do it yourself! You can expect to pay about $20 for the power steering fluid, but you’ll save on labor costs.
It’s never a bad idea to hire a professional, however.
In your Jeep, it’s a little more complex because the cooling fan also runs off the power steering pump. If you want to be confident that the power steering fluid service
was done correctly, go to a repair shop and work with a skilled technician. They can flush out your dirty fluid in less than an hour and you’ll pay about $120 for peace of mind. Which power steering fluid is best for a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The manufacturer specifies MS5931 power steering fluid—but Chrysler has discontinued this product. Thankfully, you have other options!
These are some of our favorite picks:
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Pro Tip If you’re swapping to a new type of fluid, make sure to get a full flush first.
When do I need to replace my 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s power steering fluid?
It’s recommended that you swap out the power steering fluid every 75,000 miles. However, many drivers prefer to perform this service more frequently, like every three years or 30,000 miles. While not strictly necessary for proper car maintenance
, replacing your power steering fluid can help keep your steering system functioning smoothly for longer. You might have to replace the fluid ahead of schedule if you notice any of these symptoms:
Bad noises when you turn the wheel (squeaking, screeching, grinding)
Stiffness in the steering wheel
Bubbles in your power steering fluid
Color change from clear to yellow
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