Power Steering Pump Replacement Costs

The average cost for power steering pump replacement is $842 to $941. Enter your vehicle's information to see how much it costs to replace your car's power steering pump in your local area.

Select Your Vehicle

What You Should Know About Power Steering Replacement Costs

Power steering is a crucial vehicle component, providing effortless control over its direction. When your power steering pump starts to fail, it often spells trouble.

Factors Affecting Power Steering Pump Replacement Costs

The cost of replacing a power steering pump can fluctuate based on several factors. Naturally, the make and model of your vehicle can greatly influence the expenses involved. Certain luxury or exclusive vehicles may require more specific parts that cost more than those for mainstream car models.

The type of power steering pump you opt for also impacts the replacement costs. Generally, new pumps are more expensive but provide greater assurance of reliability and performance in comparison to rebuilt or remanufactured ones.

Lastly, labor costs can differ significantly based on where you live and your chosen repair shop. Some mechanics may charge higher hourly rates than others for their services. Weigh up all these factors before proceeding with a power steering pump replacement. Every dollar adds up quickly in auto repair costs.

How to Tell if Your Power Steering Pump Is Bad

Recognizing the signs of a failing power steering pump can save you from driving hazards and expensive repairs. Watch out for these warning signs:

Difficulty Steering: Your car may resist steering efforts, especially at low speeds.
Noise While Turning: Listen for a whining or groaning noise when you turn the steering wheel, indicating a fault in your pump.
Stiff Steering Wheel: If the wheel feels heavy or hard to turn, this may point to a power steering problem.
- The majority of power steering systems still have the steering wheel directly linked to the wheels by steering shaft coupler steering rack and steering linkage.
- Any turn of the wheel is directly relayed to the wheels.
- The power steering assists in reducing the effort by the driver to turn the wheels.
- Typically there should be no delay in response. If the power steering is acting up, it may take much more effort to turn the wheel, and might feel sluggish.
Fluid leaks: Reddish spots under your car could be power steering fluid leaking from a damaged pump.

These symptoms highlight the underlying issue with your vehicle’s power steering system, suggesting it might be time for pump replacement. If you experience any of these problems, seek professional assistance right away.

Common Causes of Power Steering Pump Failure

Power steering pump failure often stems from multiple interrelated issues. For one, the aging process contributes to the wear and tear of vehicle components, including the power steering pump. Older cars commonly face this problem due to prolonged usage and degradation over time. However, even relatively newer vehicles might encounter this issue prematurely.

The serpentine belt, which turns the power steering pump, can also cause problems. If it’s too loose or cracked, it won’t be able to spin the power steering pump correctly. This can damage the pump and lead to failure.

Another significant contributor to power steering pump failure is a fluid leak in the power steering system. This fluid plays an indispensable role by transmitting pressure from the pump to the vehicle’s steering gear. It facilitates smooth turning operations. When leaking occurs, the volume of available fluid for generating adequate pressure is depleted.

As a consequence, this stresses and potentially damages the pump since it has to work harder. Contaminated or low-power steering fluid can also contribute to a failing power steering pump.

Should I Replace or Repair My Power Steering Pump?

A well-maintained power steering pump should last 100,000 miles or more under normal conditions. The power steering pump “repair vs. replace” debate boils down to specific circumstances. These include cost-effectiveness and skilled labor availability.

You may save on initial power steering pump costs with a repair. Yet sometimes, a full replacement becomes an inevitability if failure keeps reoccurring. After all, it could lead to repetitive labor costs that might outweigh a one-time replacement expense. Likewise, undertaking this repair on your own could help save some bucks in labor costs. But consider this approach only if you’re adept in handling auto repairs, as it demands an above-average skill set.

See Our Other Repair Costs

Content has been reviewed by Gary Hardesty, Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader in-house service and maintenance expert and an A.S.E. certified master technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Remove the Power Steering Pump Pulley?

First, loosen the bolts before detaching the serpentine belt from the pulley. Then, connect a puller to the pulley and tighten it until the pulley pulls free of the pump shaft. You’ll likely need a wrench to keep the pulley from turning. (Some pumps require special pullers and installers.)

Where Is the Power Steering Pump Located?

Typically, the power steering pump can be found on the engine’s side. It is usually positioned towards the front of your car and connected to your vehicle’s serpentine belt alongside other components, such as your alternator and air conditioning compressor. You’ll also find a reservoir where you add power steering fluid.

Can I Drive My Car with a Bad Power Steering Pump?

While it may still technically be possible to drive with a failing power steering pump, it’s definitely not recommended due to safety reasons. A malfunctioning system results in stiff handling and reduced control — a hazard, especially while navigating tight turns or parking maneuvers. Driving at high speeds also becomes dangerous, as you’ll struggle to make minor adjustments while dealing with the resistance.