How to Fill up the Power Steering Fluid in a 2005 Chevrolet Impala
by Justin CuplerThe Impala's history dates back to 1958, when Chevrolet used the name as the top trim level available for the Bel Air. In 1959, the Impala became its own model and continued until its elimination, in 1985. The Impala SS saw a brief appearance from 1994 through 1996, as a modified and re-badged Caprice. In 2000, Chevrolet brought back the Impala as a front-wheel-drive, four-door vehicle. The 2005 Impala came standard with a 3.4-liter V-6 engine; it also came standard with power steering. Pressurized hydraulic fluid -- known as power steering fluid -- pushes the steering rack back-and-forth to move the wheels. Checking and filling this fluid is something that all automobile owners should know how to do.
Step 1
Allow your Impala's engine to cool, if equipped with the 3.4-liter engine. Start the engine, on a 3.8-liter equipped Impala, and allow the engine to warm up; turn the 3.8-liter engine off, but do not let it cool.
Step 2
Open the Impala's hood and locate the power steering reservoir. The reservoir is located on the top-center of the engine on the 3.4-liter engine and the rear of the engine compartment on the 3.8-liter.
Step 3
Unscrew the cap on the power steering reservoir and pull the cap and dipstick from the reservoir -- the dipstick remains connected to the cap. Wipe the dipstick clean with a clean, lint-free cloth.
Step 4
Reinsert the dipstick and tighten the reservoir cap. Remove the cap and check the level on the dipstick. If the fluid is at or below the "Add" mark on the dipstick, continue to Step 5. If it is at the "C" mark on the 3.4-liter engine, or at the "Hot" mark on the 3.8-liter, reinstall and tighten the reservoir cap, as it does not need fluid.
Step 5
Insert a funnel in the power steering reservoir and add GM Power Steering Fluid (GM part No. 89021184) in small increments, periodically rechecking the fluid by following steps 3 and 4.
Step 6
Reinstall the cap and tighten it once the fluid level reaches the "C" mark on the 3.4-liter engine, or the "Hot" mark on the 3.8-liter engine.
References
Things You'll Need
- Clean, lint-free cloth
- GM Power Steering Fluid (GM part No. 89021184)
Warnings
- The power steering system is supposed to be a sealed system. If the fluid is low, it's likely there is a mechanical problem or a leak. Have the power steering system evaluated by a professional once you fill it up with the fluid.
Writer Bio
Justin Cupler is a professional writer who has been published on several websites including CarsDirect and Autos.com. Cupler has worked in the professional automotive repair field as a technician and a manager since 2000. He has a certificate in broadcast journalism from the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. Cupler is currently studying mechanical engineering at Saint Petersburg College.
