Dealer wants to charge me $360 for a power steering fluid leak in resevoir and suction hose. Right now it is a minor leak. Is this something a novice (me) can do or should I leave it to a qualified mechanic?

 

I had some seepage at one of the lines on mine, I just cut 1/2" or so off the hose and reattached it, still had plenty of slack and has stayed dry since.

 

The reservoir simply lifts up out of its mounting and this will give you access to the hose/hose clamp on the bottom of the reservoir. The suction hose (the run that runs between the power steering reservoir and the pump) is probably the easiest one of all the power steering hoses to change. This project shouldn't take more than 45 minutes for anyone.

I have a good power steering reservoir and hose for $65 shipped, if needed. I can send pics if interested. My email is; otis40741@yahoo.com

Good luck.

 

Thanks for the information. I'll check to see how bad it is (if cutting off 1/2" will work), then if necessary to replace I'll be in touch.

 

Try tightening up the clamp around the hose first........you can use a small socket wrench to do it better than trying to use a screw driver.

The fluid will leak out of the resevoir once you disconnect the bottom hose. You may want to use a bulb unit to suck out the fluid first and then replace the fluid with new fluid from your Volvo parts dept. I've replaced the resevoirs in both my Volvos plus the power steering pump on one of them. Not too difficult.