2011 Hyundai Sonata Flushing the transmission fluid

That requires attaching a flushing machine to the cooler hoses, then running lots of transmission fluid through it after adding a strong detergent. Without that machine, all you can do is drop the pan, replace the filter, then replace about the half of the fluid that came out. Dropping the pan is generally sufficient for maintenance. If you're trying to solve a mechanical problem, a flush isn't likely to help.

Filter and half the fluid is all we used to do. I think the flushing machines came around shortly after computer-controlled transmissions showed up. They had so many problems and the slightest amount of debris or varnish build-up could cause problems. The detergent was supposed to dissolve that varnish, but then all the fluid had to be removed to get that stuff out.

The additives in transmission fluid last a lot longer than those in engine oil. That's why transmission fluid doesn't have to be changed so often. The biggest mistake people make is thinking a flush will solve any problem that develops in the transmission. In my opinion, if there is no problem now, a flush is not needed for general maintenance, and if there is a problem, a flush usually isn't going to solve it.

Some people also believe a flush can cause damage. They think the fiber material has flaked off the plates and is circulating with the fluid. That grit is needed to help the plates grab and stay locked up when they're supposed to, and flushing removes that grit, then slipping problems develop shortly afterward. I don't agree with that because if that material really were circulating, it should get trapped by the filter, and more importantly, that grit will chew up the rubber seals and cause slipping. I think the mechanics who believe this ran into instances where a problem was already developing that they weren't told about by the car owner, then when they came back later complaining of the problem, the owners tried to blame it on the flush or on the mechanic, when they knew the problem was there all along.

Power steering fluid doesn't get changed regularly. The only time we might do that is after replacing a pump or steering gear that caused debris to be in the fluid. The way we would typically do that is by pulling the low-pressure return hose off the steering gear, then connecting a temporary hose to the gear and the other end into a collection bottle. You have to run the engine to pump the fluid through, and you have to work the steering wheel back and forth a little to open the valves, but the problem is the fluid will be pumped out real quickly. That lets air get into the pump and system. That air can be real frustrating and time-consuming to get out of some car models. Fords in particular are known for this, and there are some specialty tools made for this process.

Just to add to this since I am I certified Hyundai technician, Hyundai does not recommend ever doing a transmission flush. I don't have the exact reason why they don't, but if you ever have your transmission replaced under warranty, and they find any additives that don't belong, you and the dealership that performed it will hear about it. Hyundai will blame the dealership for replacing it but then the dealership will say the customer concealed the fact that they flushed it and it's going to be a blame game that you don't want to be a part of. A drain and fill is perfectly acceptable and the filter is not recommended to be replaced. The only thing inside the transmission pan is the valve body and the temperature sensor. As far as your power steering fluid, you have no power steering fluid in your vehicle. Your vehicle uses electronic power steering which replaces your traditional rack and pinion and power steering lines. It's converted to being a motor driven type and is computer controlled. Take note, if you ever have an alignment done on your vehicle, be sure to have the steering recalibrates otherwise you can end up with some EPS codes such as for the steering angle sensor. Hope all this info helps you understand your vehicle more.

Thanks Mr. Weezy.

2011 Sonatas do not have power steering fluid. 2011 is the first year sonata with EPS. Are you sure you're giving me the right information regarding the year, make and model? You put that you have a 2011 Sonata 2.0L. The 2.0L would be a turbocharged vehicle otherwise it would be a 2.4L. The 2010 sonatas and older DO have power steering fluid though. Do you have this year?

Oh ok that explains it. Yea the make and models will differ based on the country. I put in that VIN and it doesn't come up for my Microcat. My Microcat only works for US models. Even some Canadian Hyundais don't work for us. There's no real maintainance for the power steering fluid. Some shops have power steering flush machines but most don't ever replace it. If you don't have a problem with the power steering system, I would just leave it alone.

No sir. It gets dark because the heat starts to discolor it. Only time it would affect your steering is if it's running low on fluid which usually indicates you have a leak somewhere.

It's not a problem at all. Anytime you have a question, just post a new thread and if I don't get to it, one of the other experts will be glad to help you.