On average, it costs around $206 to replace a Pitman arm. That price breaks down into $102 for replacement parts and $104 for labor costs. But those numbers are average estimates, and the exact price you’ll pay for your replacement will depend on your vehicle and location.

How long does it take to replace a Pitman arm? While the replacement time can vary from car to car, a trained technician will generally take between one and three hours. Keep in mind that the time estimate does not include a front-end alignment, which is necessary following a Pitman arm replacement.

Here’s a breakdown of Pitman arm replacement costs for different vehicles:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
November 14, 2024	Carolyn, 24 Magnolia, TX	GMC Envoy	$214	$116	$98	0.8 Hours
November 8, 2024	Isabel, 34 Elizabeth, PA	Tesla Model S	$215	$116	$99	0.8 Hours
November 8, 2024	Sam, 34 San Bernardino, CA	Chrysler Pacifica	$211	$116	$95	0.8 Hours
November 7, 2024	Larry, 36 Dickinson, TX	Lincoln MKZ	$217	$122	$95	0.8 Hours
November 5, 2024	Lewis, 40 Madison, TN	Geo Prizm	$199	$122	$77	0.8 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my Pitman arm replacement, and how much do those parts cost?

You should consult your vehicle repair guide or

owner’s manual

to learn model-specific information about the steering system. But here’s a general overview of the parts you may need:

Pitman arm: The primary part you’ll replace is the Pitman arm. Prices can vary, but you should expect to pay between $50 and $150 for a new one.

Idler arm: The idler arm works together with the Pitman arm to help you steer your vehicle. It’s common to replace both parts at the same time, but not always necessary. If you need a new one, you’ll likely pay between $50 and $100.

Center link: The center link is another component of the steering system that works with the Pitman arm. If you need to replace the center link, a new one should cost around $50 to $100.

You can purchase pitman arm replacement parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. Three of our top recommended brands for pitman arms are Moog, TRW Automotive, and ACDelco. For idler arms, we recommend brands like Moog, Mevotech, and TRW Automotive. Lastly, our recommended brands for center links are Moog, TRW Automotive, and ACDelco. Keep in mind that the best brands for your pitman arm replacement will vary based on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are generally the best option when it comes to automotive repairs. That’s because OEM parts are designed specifically to fit your vehicle. They come with a strong manufacturer’s warranty and are made from reliable, high-quality materials, but they can be pricey.

Aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies and fit a wider variety of cars. They are available in premium and budget options and generally come with a cheaper price tag.

While OEM parts are usually the best option, many drivers choose to customize their cars with aftermarket parts. And because Pitman arms are common on off-road and heavy-duty vehicles, it’s especially common for enthusiasts to upgrade their cars with aftermarket parts.

Where can I buy the parts for my Pitman arm replacement?

If you choose to purchase OEM parts, you’ll have to contact your local dealership or an authorized parts supplier. Aftermarket parts are available from most auto parts stores—like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts—and online retailers like RockAuto and Amazon.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my pitman arm replaced?

Finding a reliable auto repair shop can be a daunting task. Fortunately, you can use Jerry's

GarageGuard™

to compare repair estimates and hourly rates from more than 2,500 shops around the U.S.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ uses the actual hourly rates from local shops to generate fair price estimates. Use Jerry's GarageGuard™ to learn about diagnostic charges, plan for future maintenance, and find the shops near you with the best customer reviews.

Check out some of our fantastic vetted shops below and download the app to find quality repair services in your neighborhood.

134 Reviews

Just Tires - Garden Grove

14040 Brookhurst St, Huntington, CA

Pitman Arm Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$253

(Parts - $103, Labor - $150)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$90

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (714) 530-3200

155 Reviews

Pep Boys Auto Parts & Service - Redondo #814

1800 Artesia Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA

Pitman Arm Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$251

(Parts - $103, Labor - $148)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (310) 798-9968

182 Reviews

Factory Auto Service

446 B Western Ave, Brighton, MA

Pitman Arm Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$195

(Parts - $103, Labor - $92)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (617) 922-4913

183 Reviews

Lopez Express Auto Service

542 White Horse Ave, Princeton, NJ

Pitman Arm Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$190

(Parts - $103, Labor - $87)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$40

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (609) 888-2007

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my Pitman arm?

These are the general steps a mechanic will follow to replace your Pitman arm:

Raise the car off the ground on jack stands

Remove the front wheels

Locate the Pitman arm (it is attached to the steering gear beneath the driver’s side of the car)

Remove the retaining bolt connecting the Pitman arm to the steering box

Use a Pitman arm puller to disconnect the old Pitman arm from the steering gearbox

On the other side of the Pitman arm, remove the cotter pin and castle nut

Use a pickle fork to separate the Pitman arm ball joint from the center link, drag link, or tie rod end, depending on the type of steering system

Prepare the new Pitman arm by applying grease to the zerk on the ball joint

Line up the splines on the new Pitman arm and connect it to the steering gear

Install the retaining bolt and torque it to the proper specification

Attach the other end of the Pitman arm to the center link, drag link, or tie rod end

Install the castle nut with a new cotter pin

Replace the front tires

Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts

Following these steps, a front-end alignment is necessary. After the alignment, your mechanic will finish the procedure by test-driving the car to ensure the steering wheel is straight and tight.

What happens if I don’t replace my Pitman arm?

If you have a bad Pitman arm and you don’t replace it, you’ll likely face the following problems:

Steering instability: A bad Pitman arm can lead to poor steering stability and response. You’ll likely notice excessive play in the steering wheel, and you may have trouble controlling the vehicle.

Increased tire wear: A faulty Pitman arm will most likely throw off your car’s alignment and lead to increased uneven tire wear. This can reduce the lifespan of your tires drastically and lead to increased expenses.

Steering wheel vibrations: A worn-out Pitman arm can lead to vibrations in the steering linkage and steering wheel.

Steering wheel misalignment: If the Pitman arm is faulty, the steering wheel may not return to its center position after turning.

Suspension damage: A bad Pitman arm can put stress on other steering and suspension components. This can lead to damage to the idler arm, control arm bushings, outer tie rod ends, ball joints, the steering shaft, and the steering gearbox.

Safety hazards: A worn-out Pitman arm will cause you to have less control of the car. This can lead to dangerous driving situations.

What is a Pitman arm?

A Pitman arm is an integral component of some

power steering systems

. While the majority of modern cars use a rack and pinion system, many off-road, heavy-duty, and older vehicles still use conventional power steering systems, which feature a Pitman arm.

The Pitman arm connects the steering gear to the steering linkage, which is usually a center link but can be a drag link or tie rod. As you turn the steering wheel, the Pitman arm converts the rotational movement from the steering box into lateral movement, allowing the steering wheels to move from side to side and control the car’s direction.

When should I replace the Pitman arm in my car?

Because there is no fixed replacement schedule for the Pitman arm, you’ll only need to replace yours if it fails. Here are the top signs of a faulty Pitman arm:

Steering instability: A bad Pitman arm can cause your steering wheel to have lots of play. If you have a faulty Pitman arm, the steering wheel will likely feel unresponsive and unstable.

The steering wheel wanders: A worn-out Pitman arm will most likely cause your vehicle to pull to one side or the other. The wheel may feel unstable and like it’s moving on its own.

Uneven tire wear: A faulty Pitman arm will most likely disrupt your vehicle’s alignment, resulting in uneven tire tread wear.

Complete inability to steer: If the Pitman arm fails completely, you’ll likely lose the ability to steer your car entirely. This is an incredibly dangerous situation, and you should replace the Pitman arm before it reaches this point.

Keep in mind: These symptoms can indicate other steering or suspension problems, like worn-out tie rods or bad ball joints. The best way to accurately diagnose your problem is to visit a professional mechanic.

How often should I replace my Pitman arm?

The Pitman arm is a durable steering component that is designed to last for the vehicle’s lifetime. That said, it is a wear-and-tear part that can fail over time. While there is no set replacement interval for the Pitman arm, you should replace yours if it fails.

The top signs of failure include steering issues, like a wandering steering wheel and the inability to steer your car altogether.

Can I replace my Pitman arm myself?

A Pitman arm replacement can be an excellent DIY project if you have the right tools and know-how. It’s a mid-to-advanced level job, and it does require some specialized tools.

For experienced hobbyists and home mechanics, the job should be simple enough to perform at home. But for auto repair novices, a Pitman arm replacement is most likely too advanced.

It’s also important to note that a front-end alignment is necessary following a Pitman arm replacement. That means even if you’re able to replace the Pitman arm in your driveway, you still need to visit a shop afterward for an alignment.

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FAQs

Can you drive with a bad Pitman arm?

You should not drive with a bad Pitman arm if you can avoid it. When the Pitman arm fails, you will have significantly reduced control of your vehicle. This is extremely dangerous and can result in severe injuries and vehicle damage.

Can a bad Pitman arm cause shaking?

Yes—a bad Pitman arm can cause shaking or vibrations. This can occur due to looseness in the steering system, uneven tire wear, and damage to other steering or suspension components.

How important is a Pitman arm?

The Pitman arm is a vital part of conventional power steering systems. It allows the driver’s input to reach the wheels, facilitating precise steering control and maneuverability.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.