
Power Steering Pump Repair Cost The average cost to repair a power steering pump is somewhere between $200 and $350. To replace the power steering pump with a new part, it will cost between $400 and $800 (depending on car model and what shop you take it to).
How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?
Power steering pumps are essential to the operation of the car cars with power steering. The job can be costly: between $100-$200 for a new power steering pump if you DIY and around $500 to get it done by a mechanic. That said, it is not nearly as expensive as replacing your vehicle.
How do you know if your power steering is bad?
These are just a few of the parts included in your power steering system:
- Control unit
- Fluid pump
- Hoses
- Hydraulic fluid
How do you replace a power steering pump?
Replace the PS Pump on a V8 Small-Block Chevy. If you have determined that your power steering pump is bad, here are step-by-step instructions for replacing it. These illustrations are for a 2000 Chevy Suburban with 4-wheel drive, but the same basic procedure applies to most front-mounted pumps on a V-8 engine.
How to test and troubleshoot a power steering pump?
The Way Your Steering Wheel Acts Helps You Diagnose Problems
- My Steering Wheel Has Too Much Play
- My Steering Wheel is Hard to Turn
- I Hear Noises When Turning My Steering Wheel
- My Steering Wheel Oscillates
- I Can Feel the Road Imperfections Through My Steering Wheel
- My Steering Wheel Turns to One Side VIDEO: Faulty Tie-Rod Causes Steering Wheel Pull
- My Steering Wheel Wants to Stay on One Side After a Turn

Is it expensive to replace a power steering pump?
Power steering pumps are essential to the operation of the car cars with power steering. The job can be costly: between $100-$200 for a new power steering pump if you DIY and around $500 to get it done by a mechanic. That said, it is not nearly as expensive as replacing your vehicle.
How much is labor for a power steering pump?
Depending on where you live, a shop can charge you between $50 and $125 per hour for labor. Ultimately, having a shop replace the power steering pump for you will likely cost between $200 and $500 in labor alone. Labor is usually cheaper if you replace the power steering pump yourself.
Can you drive with a broken power steering pump?
If the power steering pump goes out completely, it is not advisable that you operate the vehicle beyond dropping it off at the mechanic. This is because newer vehicles are designed to only work properly with a power steering pump.
What are the symptoms of power steering pump failure?
Stiff or Slow Responding Steering Wheel If when you're turning a corner and you find your steering wheel slow in responding, it generally means your power steering pump is failing. Also, if it's stiff when you're turning it is a symptom of your power steering pump failing.
How many hours does it take to replace a power steering pump?
It takes two to three hours for a competent mechanic to switch over a power steering pump. Power steering pump replacement costs vary across the country according to each garage and dealership. We examined our records to calculate the average hourly rate.
What causes power steering to go out?
Because your engine is connected to your power steering pump, any stretching, fraying, corrosion or breakage can cause the immediate failure of your system. We recommend having your power steering belt checked with every maintenance service, and replacing it if it shows any signs of wear, aging, or damage.
Is a power steering pump fixable?
The average cost to repair a power steering pump is somewhere between $200 and $350. To replace the power steering pump with a new part, it will cost between $400 and $800 (depending on car model and what shop you take it to).
Is it bad to drive with bad power steering pump?
Driving your car for extended periods without power steering fluid can damage the pump. While there's nothing that physically stops you from driving your car if you have a power steering fluid leak, once the level drops, your pump runs dry. This causes increased friction and heat and can quickly cause expensive damage.
How long can I drive without power steering?
You may drive with a low-power steering fluid and have little to no effects before refilling it. But driving without power steering for more than five minutes will damage the seals and gaskets on the pump. It'll also cause premature wear on the pump.
How long does it take to fix power steering?
Estimated times for your repair range from 1-2 hours. Most technicians and shops charge a minimum hourly charge for labor, on top of the cost for parts and fluids.
Can you drive a car without power steering?
Answer provided by. Driving your car without power steering can cause damage to your vehicle. In some states, it's also illegal to drive without power steering since it can pose a danger to both you and other drivers on the road. When your power steering goes out, your wheel is much harder to turn than it normally is.
How long should a power steering pump last?
100,000 milesThere's no set expiration date for your power steering pump. That said, you should count on having to replace the pump after 100,000 miles or so. Some last longer and some die much more quickly.
Power Steering Pump Cost Comparison
The most influential part of the cost to replace your power steering pump is the parts, which can have a pretty substantial price difference betwee...
What Is A Power Steering Pump Replacement?
The power steering pump is designed to send power steering fluid through the car’s systems when you turn the steering wheel. It allows you to retur...
When Should You Have The Power Steering Pump replaced?
How will you know when it is time to replace your power steering pump? Your first indication may be that the steering wheel is difficult to turn. Y...
How to Change A Power Steering Pump
1. Your mechanic will start by inspecting the power steering system. He wants to find out what is the problem precisely and determine if the pump o...
How to Save Money on A Power Steering Pump Replacement
Your key to saving money on this work is going to be using aftermarket parts or buying your own parts and bringing them into the mechanic. Now you...
Sample Power Steering Pump Replacement Costs
Below are some sample power steering pump replacement costs for some of the more widely owned vehicles in the country. Costs are indicative of what...
How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?
Most of the time, replacing your power steering pump will only take a little over an hour to do. Expect to pay between $100 – $250 or so for labor costs on this job. The parts are where you will really have to pay out though. You will pay anywhere from $150-$600 for most power steering pumps and the other parts needed to replace an old pump.
How do I change a power steering pump?
How to Change a Power Steering Pump 1 Your mechanic will start by inspecting the power steering system. He wants to find out what is the problem precisely and determine if the pump or some other component of the system needs to be replaced or repaired. 2 Once he has determined that it is the pump at fault, he will take out the power steering pump and place the new one in. In many cases, this will be followed by adding in power steering fluid to replace what may have leaked out. If contaminates got into the fluid still in the power steering tank, then the tank may be bled out to remove the contaminants. 3 After the new pump is in place and the fluid is replaced, the mechanic will inspect the belt for the power steering system as well as the reservoir. He will also inspect the pinion system and the rack. When a power steering pump is damaged, it can sometimes cause problems with other parts of the car, and the mechanic will want to rule out damage to those other parts. 4 Finally, the mechanic will check for any leaks and give the car a test drive to ensure it is steering properly.
What happens if your steering pump is malfunctioning?
If your pump is malfunctioning, then the fluid will still be there, but it won’t be sent to the steering system. Making sure your pump is replaced when it needs to be not only makes your car safer on the road, but it also gives you a more pleasant and smoother driving experience.
Why is power steering fluid needed?
Power steering fluid is necessary if your car is going to be easy to steer and control. Without it, you will have to fight with the steering wheel and really put power behind making simple turns that would not normally require much effort from you.
What happens if a pump starts malfunctioning?
Once that pump starts to malfunction, however, you are going to run into some problems. Your car may become harder to steer and you may have trouble keeping it under control.
What happens if power steering fluid leaks?
If contaminates got into the fluid still in the power steering tank, then the tank may be bled out to remove the contaminants.
What color is power steering fluid?
The fluid can be clear, pink, brown or many other colors, so make sure you know what kind of fluid you are dealing with before you jump to conclusions.
How do mechanics replace power steering pumps?
How do mechanics replace the power steering pump? If driven by a drive belt, the power steering pump is bolted to the engine via a bracket that allows for adjustment of the pump drive belt. Once the engine is cold, and safe to work on, the drive belt is removed. If driven by an electric pump, the pump may be mounted in conjunction with ...
What does it mean when your power steering pump is leaking?
Pump seal leaks will generally require a replacement. Difficult steering. Should you notice it is harder to turn the steering wheel, it might mean the power steering pump output pressure is too low, or there could be blockages in the pump or lines. Damage to the pump pulley.
Why does my power steering pump make a noise?
Noise can occur if there is wear on the pump bearings or impeller vanes. A low fluid level or trapped air can also cause noises. If the pump has already been operating while dry, adding fluid may not resolve the noise and replacement of the pump might be necessary. Power steering fluid leaks.
What happens if a pump pulley is loose?
Should the pump pulley become damaged or is loose on the pump shaft, you might detect vibration, drive belt damage, or hard steering. Either the pulley will have to be serviced or the pump assembly replaced.
What happens if a pump is belt driven?
If pump is belt-driven, it is tightened to the manufacturer’s specification. Finally, the engine is run and the car is road tested to confirm normal steering effort. If a new drive belt was installed, belt tension is measured again, and adjusted as needed, after the belt has run for a few minutes.
Can you drive with a power steering pump?
Is it safe to drive with a power steering pump problem? No. If the power steering pump is operated without an adequate amount of fluid, and the pump reservoir will not hold fluid due to a large leak. The pump could seize, which would snap the serpentine belt and likely leave you stranded.
Does a power steering pump produce hydraulic pressure?
The pump will only produce the required hydraulic pressure if it is driven by the belt at an adequate speed. Power steering leaks from aged rubber hoses, particularly where the rubber is crimped to the steel tube, are not unusual and should be carefully inspected. The system operates under high pressure.
How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?
Power steering pumps are essential to the operation of the car cars with power steering. The job can be costly: between $100-$200 for a new power steering pump if you DIY and around $500 to get it done by a mechanic. That said, it is not nearly as expensive as replacing your vehicle. Before diving into the specifics of the power steering pump ...
How long does a power steering pump last?
Most vehicle components have an expected lifespan, and power steering pumps are no different. A pump typically lasts up to 100,000 miles or better before experiencing any significant issues. However, much of that longevity has to do with maintaining a proper maintenance schedule.
What is a power steering pump?
The power steering pump is a critical component of the hydraulic system. The pump circulates and pressurizes power steering fluid. When the pressurized fluid is transferred through a hose to the steering pump, it is used to help turn the wheel. As the wheel turns, another hose returns the fluid back through the pump, where it is pressurized again. The process is continuous while the engine is running, meaning that you are never left without steering assistance. Since most drivers own vehicles equipped with power steering, it quickly becomes obvious when the pump is failing because of power steering problems like a hard to turn wheel.
Why is my power steering pump failing?
Since most drivers own vehicles equipped with power steering, it quickly becomes obvious when the pump is failing because of power steering problems like a hard to turn wheel.
What color is power steering fluid?
Power steering fluid is a red or reddish-brown color. Check for puddles after driving. While a leak is not a definitive sign of a bad pump, it does signal that there is something wrong with the system. 2.
Why is it important to maintain a power steering pump?
Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule can help to reduce expenses because it ensures minor problems don’t evolve. Many drivers worry about the power steering pump replacement cost because it sounds like an integral part of your automobile’s engine, but that doesn’t mean it is going to be significantly more expensive than other repairs.
Is it safe to drive a car with a leaking power steering pump?
While it is technically safe to drive a car with a leaking power steering pump, you must keep in mind the risk of doing so. If the leak is faster than you expect, then you risk damaging the power steering system. Permanent damage is a risk, which is why it is better to err on the side of caution.
How does a power steering pump work?
How does the power steering pump work? Power steering pumps create hydraulic pressure, and a hose transfers the pressure to the steering gear, where it can be used to assist in turning the wheels. Another hose then returns the used fluid to be pressurized.
Why does my power steering pump make a noise?
If the fluid level gets too low, the car will get harder to steer, especially at low speeds. The power steering pump may also start making a screeching noise when you turn the steering wheel. » MORE: Signs your power steering pump is going bad.
Why does my power steering system wear out?
But because of the pressure in the system , parts of it will eventually wear out.
Can you drive a car with power steering fluid leaking?
A vehicle can be driven with leaking power steering components, but you'll need to make sure there's enough fluid for the system to function. If the fluid is leaking fast, have the car towed to a repair shop to prevent damage to the power steering system.
What is power steering?
Power steering influences every facet of your vehicle's handling. It allows you to take curves and turns comfortably and remain straight and narrow when you want to. To make all this possible, the system requires ample power steering fluid.
Why does my power steering fluid leak?
As your car gets older and racks up higher mileage, certain parts begin to degrade. The most common culprits for these leaks include: O-rings and seals losing form and mass. Chunks of the seals end up in the fluid. Supply hoses develop holes.
Does insurance cover power steering?
Insurance doesn't pay for routine wear and tear. Since most power steering system problems are a result of age, insurance doesn't cover the costs. But it can pay for other expenses you may end up with. With comprehensive and collision coverage, you can get damage caused by accidents covered.
Can you drive a car with a power steering leak?
Although you can still physically operate a vehicle with a power steering leak, you should avoid doing so at all costs. The reason is that the system now runs dry, making it a lot more difficult (and dangerous) to take turns. You can't take turns as smoothly, so your car may veer slightly wider than you would like.
The Cost of Replacing a Power Steering Pump
Pricing for a power steering pump replacement will vary and will depend on the cost of the necessary parts and the labor hours. It will also be influenced by what car model you have, as that will decide the complexity of the steering system.
How Long Does It Take to Replace a Power Steering Pump?
Replacing a power steering pump requires between 3 and 5 hours on average. This is what tends to drive the costs up because each labor hour that passes will require more money. You can attempt a DIY replacement to save on costs, but you may not be able to do it properly.
How Does a Power Steering Pump Get Replaced?
These are the usual steps that will be taken by specialists when replacing a power steering pump:
Should You Drive with a Bad Power Steering Pump?
If you’re starting to notice issues with the steering system that seem to be caused by a bad power steering pump, you should immediately seek out a mechanic.
Signs that You Have a Faulty Power Steering Pump
These are some of the most common signs of a power steering pump becoming defective:
Why You Should Replace the Power Steering Pump
You should always preserve the integrity of your steering system by making sure that you have a working power steering pump. This will make the system work effectively and will make your life easier when you’re driving.
How Does the Steering System Work?
Steering systems that include the power steering pump usually have six parts: the reservoir tank, the power steering pump assembly, the power steering fluid return hose, the power steering fluid, the high-pressure hydraulic hose, and a power steering rack to contain everything.
Power steering pump replacement costs depend on which brand and engine you have
For this comparison I’m using the published labor times from a reliable flat rate guide, along with the published price of a brand new pump from the dealer. You can save money by asking the shop to install a rebuilt power steering pump, but make sure the shop uses a reliable brand and the proper power steering fluid.
Power steering pump replacement labor times vary by engine
You may think that power steering pump replacement costs are cheaper if your vehicle has a 4-cylinder engine. That’s not always the case. Labor times vary depending on WHERE the power steering pump is located, and which other components must be removed to access the power steering pump.
Power steering pump replacement times also vary by the type of power steering pump pulley
New and rebuilt power steering pumps don’t often come with a new pulley. That means the technician must remove the pulley from the old pump and transfer it to the new pump. If the pulley is bolted on to the power steering pump, the procedure takes only 10-minutes. But many times the pulley is pressed onto the power steering pump shaft.
How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?
According to our research, the power steering pump replacement cost (UK) can range between £150 and £500.
What are the power steering pump replacement costs at dealerships compared to Fixter garages?
If you replace your power steering pump with Fixter, on average, we save our customers around 30% against dealership prices. Not only will you save money, but you will also benefit from our end-to-end collection and delivery service.
What additional factors could affect a power steering pump replacement?
There are a variety of components associated with steering issues and may need attention at the same time as your pump replacement. For example, if the pump seizes, it can snap the cam belt, leading to all sorts of associated issues, in the worst-case scenario, engine damage, one of the costliest repairs a driver can face.
What are the costs of power steering pump replacement parts?
Depending on the make and model of your car, a power steering pump can cost anywhere between £50 and £500. For most domestic vehicles, you can expect to pay around £150–£250, making its replacement a fairly costly venture.
What are the labour times and rates for a power steering pump replacement?
It takes two to three hours for a competent mechanic to switch over a power steering pump.
Can you replace a power steering pump replacement yourself?
Not really—this is a job for an experienced mechanic, and even then, it takes around two or three hours to complete. Specialist tools are required, including hydraulic line, boxed end and ratchet wrenches, a threadlocker, and a drain pan.
How do I know if my power steering pump is failing?
Leaking power steering fluid around the reservoir, pump, or pipe connections.

Understanding The Power Steering Pump
Safety and Caution
- If you hear a power steering pump noise or suspect an issue with the system, it is best to have your vehicle towed to a safe location, like your garage or a repair shop. While it is technically safe to drive a car with a leaking power steering pump, you must keep in mind the risk of doing so. If the leak is faster than you expect, then you risk damaging the power steering system. Permanen…
Cost of Replacement
- It is difficult to specify an exact cost because the price of a replacement part varies based on vehicle make and model. The estimate for the entire pump replacement is $100 to $200 for parts. If you are handy, then you may be able to save around $300, which is a likely cost for labor. Again, these estimates are rough because even labor costs can v...
Frequency of Replacement
- Most vehicle components have an expected lifespan, and power steering pumps are no different. A pump typically lasts up to 100,000 miles or better before experiencing any significant issues. However, much of that longevity has to do with maintaining a proper maintenance schedule. Because steering pumps last so long, any repair work is usually found in used vehicles, especiall…