How to Replace Power Steering Fluid For a 2008 Ford F150

You can replace your 2008 Ford F150’s power steering fluid by removing the red reservoir cap, draining the old fluid, and refilling it with Prestone fluid.
Written by Melissa Harvey
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
You can replace the power steering fluid in your 2008 Ford F150 by draining the old fluid from the reservoir and then filling it with a new Mercon V Transmission Fluid bottle. You’ll find the power steering reservoir on the driver’s side of the engine marked with a steering wheel picture. 
If your steering wheel has stiffened up—or even worse, screaming when you turn—it's time to replace your Ford's power steering fluid. While this may sound like an intimidating task, don't fret! This service couldn't be more straightforward if you follow this guide from
Jerry
, the
car insurance
super app. 
We’ll cover all the bases: how to remove your F150’s power steering fluid, which brand is best for your Ford, and how to know when you should do a replacement. As a bonus, we’ll even show you how to use our app so save big on your
Ford F-150 insurance costs
! Let’s get to work.
Jerry sends free alerts to keep your car up-to-date so you can avoid costly repairs
* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score
Get ahead of my car maintenance
* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score

How do I replace my 2008 Ford F150’s power steering fluid? 

Surprisingly,
servicing the power steering fluid
in your F150 is pretty straightforward. Here’s all you need to do: 
  • Find the power steering reservoir. You’ll find the reservoir marked with a steering wheel under the hood on the driver’s side of the engine. 
  • Remove the cap and insert a pump into the reservoir. You can use several options for a make-shift pump; for example, a turkey baster will do the job just fine.
  • Pump the old power steering fluid out of the reservoir. Use a container, like a coffee can, to catch the liquid you’re removing. 
  • Refill the reservoir with new fluid and replace the cap
You're good to go once you’ve replaced the power steering fluid in your F150. And with that, you’ve successfully changed your power steering fluid—easy peasy! If you’ve got the mechanical skills to go the extra mile, here are some additional steps for a complete replacement: 
  • Disconnect the fluid line. 
  • Drain the system. You may need an extra set of hands to help you start the engine and turn the steering wheel while the fluid drains into your drip pan. Repeat this process until fresh fluid is running into your pan.
  • Top off the reservoir and replace the cap. Make sure the fluid level is between the Min and Max fill lines. 
What if you’re not into DIY car maintenance? No problem! Take your F150 to your favorite mechanic. Let’s look at some pros and cons. 

Should I change it myself or take it to a mechanic?

At the end of the day, if you want to be confident that your replacement was done correctly, you can’t go wrong by having a professional do the work. A repair shop should be able to flush the steering fluid in an hour at most, and you’ll be looking to pay about $120
If you’re confident in your skills and have the tools, you can save money by completing this service yourself! You will still have to pay between $10 to $25 for the fluid, but you won’t have to pay labor fees. 
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

Which power steering fluid is best for a 2008 Ford F150?

There are many excellent power steering fluid options you can choose from. If you want to stick with Ford’s OEM, Mercon V transmission fluid is our favorite. That said, any other brands like Peak or Prestone will do the job just fine.
Power steering fluid
Amount
Cost
Mercon V Transmission Fluid
32 ounces
$12.53
Peak Original Equipment Technology Full Synthetic North American
12 ounces
$13.29
Prestone PSF MAXAmerican
12 ounces
$12.99
Pentosin ATF 44
5 liters (170 ounces)
$71.99
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
icon4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars
icon4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers
Pro Tip if you pick Mercon fluid, get Mercon V Transmission Fluid, not power steering for your Ford.

When do I need to replace my 2008 Ford F150’s power steering fluid? 

Generally, you’ll want to replace your F150’s power steering fluid every two years or 75,000 miles, whichever comes first. This will keep your steering system in tip-top shape and help you steer easily. 
There are some instances where you’ll need to replace fluid before the scheduled time. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to swap fluids: 
  • Strange noises when you turn the wheel (squealing, squeaking, etc.)
  • Difficulty steering
  • Bubbles in your power steering fluid
  • Fluid leakage
  • Color change from clear to yellow
Remember that sufficient power steering fluid doesn’t just help control your car—it extends its lifespan! Be sure to follow a
basic car maintenance schedule
to keep your F150 on the road for years. 
MORE:

How to save money on 2008 Ford F150 insurance

If you’re running from one project to the next, you're probably looking for any ways to
save money on your car expenses
—and who isn't these days? Good news: we’ve got help for you! 
Jerry
the
trustworthy insurance shopping super app
will save you money on car insurance and get you the best coverage for your Ford. You can’t beat that! 
Sign up in just 45 seconds, and get the top rates in the country in minutes. Once you’ve picked your favorite quote, our experts will help you change policies—no stress, no hassle. Best of all, Jerry drivers save on average $800+ a year on car insurance! 
“When using
Jerry
, I just put in some information, and they found lots of different quotes for me. I was paying $305 a month for two brand-new cars, but now I’m paying $150 a month for both with full coverage!” —Robin U.
Are you overpaying for your car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms · No fees
icon4.717k Ratings
5M+Drivers Joined
7M+Cars Garaged

FAQs

Definitely! If you want to save some money on labor fees, follow these steps: remove the steering fluid reservoir cap, drain the old power steering fluid, and refill your Ford F150 with new fluid.
Generally, you should replace your F150’s fluid every two years or 75,000 miles. You may need to change it sooner if you’re having problems steering.
Estimate your repair costs for free with GarageGuard™
Simplify your car maintenance with Jerry.
Try GarageGuard™

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings