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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a power steering fluid reservoir?
What parts do I need for my power steering fluid reservoir replacement, and how much do those parts cost?
Where can I get my power steering fluid reservoir replaced?
What is a power steering fluid reservoir?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a power steering fluid reservoir?

On average, the total cost for power steering fluid reservoir replacement is $212, with parts averaging $117 and labor averaging 0.8 hours. The price range may vary based on your vehicle's make and model.

How long does it take to replace a power steering fluid reservoir? A certified mechanic generally takes about 0.8 hours to replace your brake calipers. Your mechanic will first check your brakes and rotors and, if needed, perform a complete replacement.

Here’s an overview of the power steering fluid reservoir replacement costs for different vehicles:

Power steering fluid reservoir replacement cost for various vehicles

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 25, 2024	Alberta, 20 New York, NY	Smart Fortwo	$123	$57	$66	0.6 Hours
April 23, 2024	Emily, 25 Philadelphia, PA	GMC Envoy	$121	$57	$64	0.6 Hours
April 21, 2024	Kenneth, 28 Monroe, NC	Audi A6	$129	$57	$72	0.6 Hours
April 14, 2024	Lola, 40 Westfield, IN	Toyota Tacoma	$132	$57	$75	0.6 Hours
April 12, 2024	Dorothy, 43 Portland, OR	Ram ProMaster	$134	$57	$77	0.6 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 power steering fluid reservoir replacement, and how much do those parts cost?

You should check your vehicle repair guide and

owner’s manual

to find model-specific details. But here’s a basic rundown of the parts you may need:

Power steering fluid reservoir: This is the primary component that holds the hydraulic fluid for your power steering system. A replacement can cost between $30 and $100.

O-rings and gaskets: These are small rubber seals that prevent leaks at connection points. O-ring kits can cost between $5 and $20.

You can purchase power steering fluid reservoir 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 power steering fluid reservoirs are Dorman, ACDelco, and Cardone. For o-rings and gaskets, we recommend reputable brands like Fel-Pro, Mahle, and Victor Reinz. Be mindful that the right parts and brands for your power steering fluid reservoir replacement will vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

For most automotive repair jobs, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are the best choice, especially if you drive a newer vehicle.

OEM parts are designed by your car’s manufacturer specifically to fit your vehicle. They come with a strong warranty and are made from high-quality materials. That said, OEM parts tend to be expensive, and they can be difficult to find for some makes and models.

Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party companies and can fit a wider range of cars. They’re available in budget and premium options and typically cost less than OEM parts. Aftermarket parts are a solid option for owners of older cars or drivers looking to lower their repair costs.

Where can I buy the parts for my power steering reservoir replacement?

If you want OEM parts, you’ll have to visit your local dealership or contact an authorized parts supplier. You can purchase aftermarket parts 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 power steering fluid reservoir replaced?

Finding the right place to get your power steering fluid reservoir replaced can be tricky—especially if you don’t have a trusted mechanic to turn to. Luckily, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

can help you compare costs for the services you need from over 2,500 reputable repair shops across the country.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from shops using their actual hourly labor rate. Jerry's GarageGuard™ will also let you know if you need to budget for diagnostic fees and show you reviews from real customers to help you choose the best service.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

177 Reviews

54th Street Auto Center

415 W 54th St, New York, NY

Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$235

(Parts - $74, Labor - $161)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$191

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (212) 265-3120

174 Reviews

Yoo's Auto Service & Collision

189 W Duncannon Ave, Philadelphia, PA

Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$159

(Parts - $74, Labor - $85)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (215) 457-7777

185 Reviews

Goodyear Auto Service - Coral Gables

3690 Bird Rd, Coral Gables, FL

Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$189

(Parts - $74, Labor - $115)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$130

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (305) 446-8101

123 Reviews

Zimmerman Automotive LLC

7638 Airpark Rd A, Great Falls, VA

Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$189

(Parts - $74, Labor - $115)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$50

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (301) 330-0299

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 power steering fluid reservoir?

These are the general steps a mechanic will follow to replace your power steering fluid reservoir:

Remove any engine covers or other components obstructing access to the reservoir

Place a drain pan on the ground beneath the reservoir

Remove the hose clamp from the return line near the top of the reservoir

Remove the reservoir mounting bolts if present or slide the reservoir out of any clips holding it in place

Use a pair of vice grips to clamp the supply hose closed

Remove the supply line hose clamp and disconnect the hose from the reservoir

Remove the old power steering fluid reservoir

Install the new power steering fluid reservoir and connect the supply line

Reattach the mounting bolts if present

Connect the return line

Fill the new reservoir with clean fluid

Start the engine and turn the wheel back and forth

Top off the fluid level if necessary

Test drive the car

What happens if I don’t replace my power steering fluid reservoir?

If you don’t replace a faulty power steering fluid reservoir, you risk developing the following issues:

Power steering fluid leaks: A faulty power steering fluid reservoir may leak hydraulic fluid. This can reduce your ability to turn the steering wheel and contribute to power steering system damage.

Power steering system failure: If the power steering fluid level falls too low, the entire system may begin to fail. This can result in a stiff steering wheel as well as highly expensive damage to other system components, like the steering rack and power steering pump.

Strange noises: When the power steering system loses fluid and air enters the system, you’re likely to notice unusual noises—like whining, groaning, or squealing—when you turn the wheel.

Safety issues: Driving without power steering can be dangerous. It will be significantly harder to turn the wheel, which can reduce your ability to control the vehicle and lead to increased accident risks.

What is a power steering fluid reservoir?

A power steering fluid reservoir is an essential part of most hydraulic

power steering systems

. It’s a small container that holds the system’s hydraulic or power steering fluid. The system uses this fluid to reduce the amount of force necessary to move the steering wheel.

The reservoir is usually plastic and typically has two hoses: a return line and a supply line. The high-pressure supply line feeds fluid to the power steering pump. Once the fluid travels through the power steering rack and pinion, it returns to the reservoir via the low-pressure return line.

The reservoir serves as a supply and storage unit, ensuring a steady flow of fluid to the power steering pump and the entire system.

When should I replace the power steering fluid reservoir on my car?

There is no set replacement interval for the power steering fluid reservoir. That means that you’ll only need to replace yours if it fails. Here are the most common signs that you may have a bad power steering fluid reservoir:

Power steering fluid leaks: One of the top signs of a faulty power steering fluid reservoir is fluid leaks. If you notice dark red liquid in the engine bay or beneath your car, you may have a bad reservoir.

Difficulty steering: If the power steering fluid reservoir is leaking or contaminated, you’ll likely notice it becomes increasingly difficult to turn the steering wheel.

Noises while turning: Another common sign of power steering problems is hearing strange noises while turning the wheel. You may notice groaning or squealing noises, especially when turning the wheel far in one direction.

Keep in mind: These issues can indicate other problems, like a bad power steering pump, low power steering fluid, a worn-out accessory pulley, or even a bad serpentine belt. The best way to correctly identify your problem is to visit a certified mechanic for an accurate diagnosis.

How often should I replace my power steering fluid reservoir?

There is no fixed replacement schedule for the power steering fluid reservoir. Instead, you’ll need to replace it only when it begins displaying signs of failure. The most common symptoms of a faulty reservoir include fluid leaks, trouble steering, and fluid contamination.

Can I replace my power steering fluid reservoir myself?

A power steering fluid reservoir replacement generally requires mid-level automotive repair skills and access to basic tools. It can make a solid DIY project for experienced hobbyists and home mechanics, but novices may find it too complex. If you’re uncomfortable performing the repair yourself, you should seek help from a professional mechanic.

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FAQs

Is it bad to drive a car without power steering fluid?

Yes—it is bad to drive a car without power steering fluid. Power steering fluid plays a vital role in helping you turn your steering wheel. Without adequate fluid, the wheel will become incredibly difficult to move, increasing your risks of losing control and getting into an accident.

What happens if you don’t change your power steering fluid?

If you don’t replace your power steering fluid at the intervals recommended by your car’s manufacturer, you’ll likely develop the following issues:

Fluid contamination and degradation

Reduced power steering performance

Increased wear and tear on the power steering system components

Noisy steering

Fluid leaks and system failure

Safety risks

How long can power steering fluid last?

The lifetime of power steering fluid can vary based on the type of fluid, the car, and your driving conditions. In general, power steering fluid is good for 30,000 to 60,000 miles. That said, you should always trust your manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to maintenance, meaning you should follow the specified replacement schedule outlined in your owner’s manual.

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.