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Audi Q5: How to Change Power Steering Fluid and Bleed Pump

Not replacing the power steering fluid in the Audi Q5 for a long time can damage your pump. Learn how to flush and replace it below.

By Bassem Girgis - April 18, 2016

This article applies to the Audi Q5 (2009-2016).

The power steering fluid should be topped off when some of it evaporates from the engine. However, if it's really old, it will start looking like sludge. In that particular case, you need to remove it from the power steering pump and add fresh fluid in its place. When you hear your power steering pump whining when you turn your steering wheel, this could mean you're low on power steering fluid, or it could mean that your fluid needs to be replaced. This guide will show you how to suck out the old fluid and replace it with new in the Audi Q5.

Materials Needed

  • Fluid pump
  • Power steering fluid
  • Funnel

Step 1 – Suck out the old fluid

Use your fluid pump to suck the old fluid out of the power steering pump. Insert the pump's hose inside the power steering pump, then pump the fluid to suck it in. Make sure you move the hose around to suck out all the fluid in the reservoir.

Figure 1. Suck the old fluid out.

Step 2 – Refill with new fluid

Use your funnel to refill the power steering pump with new fluid. This will ensure you don't make a mess when pouring in the new fluid. Fill the fluid to the top.

Figure 2. Refill power steering pump with a funnel to avoid a similar spill.

Step 3 – Check fluid level and top off if necessary

Start the car and turn the steering wheel left and right a few times, then check the power steering fluid level. Top it off if necessary. Turning the steering wheel from left to right will bleed the system, so you may hear bubbling sounds; that's normal and just your system bleeding itself.

Figure 3. Check fluid's level after turning the wheel.

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