Is it routine maintenance to have power steering fluid flushed?

The Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) has a recommendation based laboratory and field testing that shows most power steering fluids degrade measurably by 50,000 miles. Therefore, the revised steering and suspension UICS suggests a one-time exchange of power steering fluid at 50,000 miles, so long as a service interval is not included in the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. In addition, a vehicle's power steering fluid should be exchanged whenever a system component-pump, hose, rack & pinion unit-is replaced. Neil Bilodeau SAF-T Auto Centers Wallingford, CT 06492 www.saftauto.com