
Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost
- Labor costs are estimated between $148 and $187 while parts are priced between $344 and $495.
- This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
- This range is an average across all vehicles on the road. ...
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.
What happens if you don't fix a power steering pump?
When the pump fails altogether, you'll have zero steering assist. A power steering pump that's leaking will cause the fluid to deplete faster, resulting in noise and, eventually, a loss of steering assist. A power steering pump that's leaking will cause the fluid to deplete faster.
Is power steering pump repairable?
Once the mounting bolts holding the pump in place have been removed then the pump can be completely taken out and the new or reconditioned steering pump installed. All of the power steering lines are then replaced with the wiring and power steering drive belt.
How can I tell if my power steering pump is bad?
The symptoms of a bad steering pump include:Your Car Makes a Whining Noise Any Time You Turn the Wheel. ... Your Car's Steering Wheel Is Slow to Respond. ... Your Car's Steering Wheel Is Stiff. ... Your Car Makes Squealing Noises When You Turn the Key in the Ignition. ... Your Car Makes Groaning Noises.
What are the signs of a power steering pump going out?
What are the Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Pump?Whining Noise When You're Turning the Wheel. ... Stiff or Slow Responding Steering Wheel. ... Squealing Noise Upon Starting Your Vehicle. ... Red-Brown Puddle Underneath Your Car.
Can I drive my car with a bad 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.
How long does it take to replace a power steering pump?
two to three hoursIt 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.
Can you still drive a car if the power steering goes out?
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 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.
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.
What makes power steering pump go bad?
Contaminated fluid can wear down fittings, clog the steering system, create an increase in friction, and even causes the failure of some components, such as your pump. This is why you should change your vehicle's power steering fluid at the manufacturer-recommended interval, which you can find in your owner's manual.
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...
Symptoms of Power Steering System Leaks
The first thing you may notice when this happens is an unusual stain on your driveway or garage floor. But the real symptoms will be noticeable when you actually drive your vehicle on the road.
Average Repair Costs for Power Steering System Leaks
There are 6 main components of a hydraulic power steering system. They include:
Conclusion
While leaks within the power steering system can happen, one tip can help problems from arising. The simple thing you can do is to not hold the steering fully turned for more than 10 seconds since this places a lot of stress on the system.
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 ...
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.
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 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.
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.

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…