How to Replace Power Steering Fluid For a 2014 Ford Explorer

You can replace your 2014 Ford Explorer’s power steering fluid by removing the reservoir cap, draining the old fluid, and refilling it with Motorcraft fluid.
Written by Talullah Blanco
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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To replace your 2014 Ford Explorer’s power steering fluid, you’ll need to drain the old fluid from the reservoir and then refill it with new Motorcraft fluid. 
It’s recommended you replace your power steering fluid every two years or 50,000 miles. But if your steering wheel is stiff or screeches when you turn, then it's time to change your Explorer's power steering fluid. 
Don’t worry changing your power steering fluid is easier than you think! This guide from
Jerry
, the expert app for
car insurance
, will cover everything you need to know to replace your Ford Explorer’s power steering fluid without a hitch.
And if you want to lower your
Ford Explorer insurance cost
(or explore insurance for any other vehicle), Jerry’s got you covered there, too!
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How do I replace my 2014 Ford Explorer’s power steering fluid?

Luckily, replacing the power steering fluid in your Ford Explorer is one of the easier do-it-yourself car maintenance tasks. Just follow these steps:
  • Locate the power steering reservoir. Look for a white, yellow, or black cap on or near the engine.
  • Remove the cap and drain the reservoir. You can use a turkey baster to pump the old fluid from your power steering reservoir. 
  • Refill the reservoir with new fluid and connect the cap. 
It’s really that easy! But if you have extra time on your hands and you can level up your power steering fluid replacement with these steps:
  • Disconnect the fluid line. Locate the power steering fluid return line and disconnect it from the power steering pump.
  • Drain the system. Turning the steering wheel back and forth will squeeze the remaining fluid from the system.
If getting your hands dirty isn’t your cup of tea or you don’t feel confident about taking on the task, then you can always take your car to a mechanic to replace your
Ford’s
power steering fluid.
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

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

If you aren’t confident in your mechanic abilities and want to make sure your
power steering fluid service
is done right, then you should take your car to a repair shop. Flushing your power steering fluid should take an hour and cost about $120.
But if you are looking to save money and you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, replace it yourself! Motorcraft power steering fluid will only cost you between $10 and $15 at your local auto parts store. 

Which power steering fluid is best for a 2014 Ford Explorer?

The best power steering fluid for your Ford is Motorcraft. Here are a few of our favorite picks:
Power steering fluid
Amount
Cost
Motorcraft Mercon LV
1 quart
$10.99
Motorcraft Mercon V
1 quart
$15.18
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When do I need to replace my 2014 Ford Explorer power steering fluid?

You should replace the power steering fluid in your Ford Explorer every two years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first!) to keep your steering wheel system running smoothly.
However, you may have to replace your fluid before the scheduled time if you notice any of these symptoms:
  • Screeching, squeaking, and any other strange noises coming from your steering wheel when you turn
  • Trouble steering
  • Fluid leakage
  • Yellow or brown fluid
  • Bubbles in your power steering fluid
Replacing your power steering fluid not only makes steering easier but also prolongs the life of your Ford Explorer! 

How to save money on Ford insurance

Sure, replacing your power steering fluid yourself will save you money but if you are looking for next-level savings, use Jerry shop for
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FAQs

Yes! Replacing your power steering fluid is one of the easiest do-it-yourself car maintenance tasks. Just remove the reservoir cap, drain the old fluid, and refill your Ford Explorer’s power steering reservoir with new fluid.
A good rule of thumb is to replace your power steering fluid every two years or 50,000 miles–whichever comes first.
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