Power steering

Jasonp · 08-02-2017, 06:41 AM

Hi everyone!

Last week I bought a 2012 build Mc Mondeo wagon LX tdci. 84500kms. Really happy with it so far apart from the crappy Chinese tyres. Which will be changed soon.

I have a question regarding the power steering reservoir. I have googled but can't find an answer.

I can't find the damned power steering reservoir!!! It's not next to the coolant overflow bottle like the manual says and I've poked around with a torch to no avail.

Next step is to put it on the hoist on the weekend.

I'm probably missing something really simple but this had really got me stumped lol.

rondeo · 08-02-2017, 08:20 AM

My guess is it doesn't have one because it's electrically driven, don't know for sure though.
My 2011 has the fluid reservoir in the expected place.
My best tyre so far: Michelin Primacy ST3, they seem to grip well and are quiet, road noise is a little high on these cars I'd say.

Jasonp · 08-02-2017, 11:03 AM

Thanks Rondeo, I was thinking maybe an electric system has been fitted. Vehicle is ex fleet.

Was thinking of fitting either those Michelins or pirelli P7s (which I had fitted to our old camry before we traded it)

NZ XR6 · 08-02-2017, 06:58 PM

The reservoir isn't next to the coolant tank - it's on the RH side of the engine. All Mk 4 Mondeos had an electro hydraulic system as far as I'm aware.

Very happy with the Primacy 3. Just be aware that it's not exactly a sports tyre.

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Jasonp · 08-02-2017, 09:28 PM

I will upload a picture tomorrow as the net is not behaving itself tonight.

Jasonp · 09-02-2017, 06:02 AM

Ok here's the engine bay.

Btw the current tyres are tracmax f1-06, not as bad as some reviews suggest, but what price do you put on your family's safety.

Edit: Part of engine bay....

NZ XR6 · 09-02-2017, 12:13 PM

No wonder you couldn't find it ... Have a look here: http://www.talkford.com/community/to...r-where-is-it/

Jasonp · 09-02-2017, 12:27 PM

Oh ffs!!! I thought it might have been on the right hand side due to left hand-right hand conversion. You'd think they could have updated the damn manual

Cheers for that mate.

NZ XR6 · 09-02-2017, 02:11 PM

Might pay to see if there is a fluid level warning for the power steering. Then you'll never need to check it!

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Jasonp · 19-02-2017, 06:05 PM

Ok just thought I'd add this pic for reference. The drivers side head light assembly has been removed, fairly easy process. The min/max level on the reservoir is easily visible.

the fluid level was on the low mark so topped up with penrite LDAS fluid.

cobrin · 19-02-2017, 07:59 PM

dayum! under the headlight?!?

Oh glad mine is out in the open...

NZ XR6 · 20-02-2017, 12:52 AM

That's well buried. I hope it never needs to come out!

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Jasonp · 20-02-2017, 06:25 AM

There is reasonable access via the wheel arch.

Off topic, but does anyone know if the transmission heat exchanger on these mondeos need replacing with an air/oil cooler like the falcons?

cobrin · 20-02-2017, 01:52 PM

no, not needed on the mondeos they've got their own water cooled cooler, but you could if you wanted to use a larger air cooler.

rondeo · 20-02-2017, 03:19 PM

Just to continue veering off topic:

Transmission has a temperature sensor. DTC code for over temp is P1783. Probably a warning but don't know.

My transmission was around 75 degrees C last time I looked. Recently at outside temps of 43 deg C made no difference to the engine coolant temp (LX). As Cobrin says, the tranny is cooled by a separate heat exchanger using same coolant as engine.

Make sure the fluid and filter is done regularly (60000km usually, I DIY at 45000km). I don't think temp is an issue, better to change the fluid.

Jasonp · 21-02-2017, 08:19 PM

Thanks for your help, so no "milkshake" issues? The trans cooler looks similar to the one on the falcons that's why I ask.

Was planning on changing trans fluid every 45k.

rondeo · 23-02-2017, 07:53 PM

Not something I've heard of, but that's not saying much. My Mondeos have have been very reliable.

Before I had an ef falcon on gas, it was going well at 500000km + (two head gaskets) when I handed her in. I wanted more airbags. 1200km diesel Mondeo fill ups and handling is superb. Glad to be rid of spark plugs and coils, but electronics and wiring seem weak points . . .