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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 pump?
Where can I get my power steering pump replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my power steering pump?
What happens if I don’t replace my power steering pump?
What is a power steering pump?
Can I replace my power steering pump myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?

The exact cost for a power steering pump replacement will vary based on your car and location. But the average cost is around $390, which we can break down into $198 for replacement parts and $193 for the technician’s labor costs.

How long does it take to replace a power steering pump? While replacement times can vary between vehicles, a certified mechanic will typically take between one and three hours to perform the service.

Here’s a breakdown of power steering pump replacement costs for different vehicles:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
November 7, 2024	Josephine, 36 Westbrook, CT	Fiat 500L	$325	$265	$60	0.4 Hours
November 6, 2024	Glen, 37 Wheeling, IL	Saturn SKY	$313	$265	$48	0.4 Hours
November 5, 2024	Virgie, 40 Ann Arbor, MI	Tesla Model X	$405	$350	$55	0.5 Hours
November 5, 2024	Olivia, 39 Ann Arbor, MI	Dodge Magnum	$309	$265	$44	0.4 Hours
November 2, 2024	Jean, 45 Columbus, OH	Jaguar XK8	$407	$350	$57	0.5 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 pump replacement, and how much do those parts cost?

You should check your

owner’s manual

and vehicle repair guide to find detailed, model-specific information about the power steering system. But here’s a basic list of the parts you may need:

Power steering pump: This is the component that pressurizes the hydraulic power steering fluid and circulates it through the system. On average, a new power steering pump costs between $100 and $450.

Power steering fluid: After you complete the pump replacement, you’ll have to top off the fluid level. Containers of power steering fluid can cost between $10 and $30.

O-rings and seals: You may need to replace gaskets, seals, and O-rings during the pump replacement. These parts are inexpensive and cost $5 to $20.

Power steering pump pulley

: Some replacement pumps don’t come with a new pulley. And if your old pulley is faulty or damaged, you should replace it when you replace the pump. A new pulley can cost $20 to $100.

Drive belt: Most power steering pumps are driven by the

serpentine belt

or drive belt. Generally, you should replace the belt when you replace a belt-driven accessory, like the pump. A new serpentine belt should cost $15 to $50.

Power steering hoses: In some cases, you may need to change the power steering hoses when you replace the pump. These can cost between $50 and $150.

You can purchase power steering pump 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 recommended brands for power steering pump parts are Cardone, ACDelco, and Bosch. For power steering fluid, we recommend brands like Prestone, Valvoline, and Lucas Oi. When it comes to your o-rings and seals, Fel-Pro, Mahle, and Victor Reinz are our top recommendations. Our recommended brands for power steering pump pulleys, Dorman, ACDelco, and Genuine Toyota are trusted options. Our recommended drive belt brands include Gates, Dayco, and Continental are reliable. Lastly, for power steering hoses, Edelmann, ACDelco, and Gates are our recommendations. Keep in mind that the best parts and brands for your power steering pump parts will vary based 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 option, especially for newer cars.

OEM parts are built specifically to fit your car’s make and model. They come with a strong manufacturer’s warranty and are made from high-quality materials. OEM parts can be expensive, however, and may be difficult to locate.

Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party companies for a broad range of vehicle makes and models. They tend to have cheaper price tags but are available in budget, premium, and performance options. Aftermarket parts can be a solid option for older cars and drivers interested in cutting down on repair costs.

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

You can find OEM parts at your local dealership or by contacting an authorized parts supplier. Aftermarket parts are available at most local 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 pump replaced?

If you don’t already visit a trusted mechanic, finding one can be tough. Luckily, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

lets you compare hourly rates and repair estimates from thousands of shops around the U.S.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ creates fair price estimates based on the actual hourly rates from shops in your area. Use it to discover diagnostic fees, budget for future maintenance work, and find shops in your neighborhood with the best customer reviews.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to search for quality repair services near you.

129 Reviews

Accurate Smog & Auto Repair

7060 Schirra Ct #101, Bakersfield, CA

Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$374

(Parts - $249, Labor - $125)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$140

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (661) 827-8700

198 Reviews

J & E Automotive

3801 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN

Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$379

(Parts - $249, Labor - $130)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$124

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (615) 297-2943

106 Reviews

Lee Myles Transmissions

1110 Dorchester Ave, Boston, MA

Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$375

(Parts - $249, Labor - $126)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$140

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (617) 282-0488

176 Reviews

Kenny and Billy's Auto Center

473 Iselin, NJ

Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$396

(Parts - $249, Labor - $147)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$130

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (732) 283-2767

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 pump?

The exact replacement process will vary from car to car. But here are the basic steps a mechanic will follow to replace your power steering pum

Lift the car off the ground

Remove any engine covers or other components blocking access to the pump

Remove the serpentine belt

Remove the skid plate(s) if applicable

Remove the radiator fan and fan shroud if necessary

Place a drain pan below the pump

Remove the fluid lines connected to the pump

Let the fluid drain

Remove the pump’s lower mounting bolt

Remove any remaining fluid lines connected to the pump

Use a pulley removal tool to remove the pump’s pulley (only if you’re planning to reuse the same pulley)

Remove the pump’s mounting bolts

If the pump has a mounting bracket, transfer it to the new pump

Transfer the old pulley to the new pump or install the new pulley on the new pump

Position the new power steering pump and install the mounting bolts

Install the new serpentine belt

Replace any remaining parts, including the skid plats, fan shroud, and fan

Lower the car

Fill up the power steering fluid reservoir

Start the engine and move the steering wheel back and forth

Top off the fluid level again

Check below the vehicle for leaks

Take the car on a 10-mile road test

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

If you ignore a faulty power steering pump, your car will likely develop the following problems:

Difficulty steering: If the power steering pump is faulty or malfunctioning, you will have a harder time turning the steering wheel. It may be especially difficult to maneuver your car at low speeds and while parking.

Noisy steering: A faulty pump can produce strange noises when you turn the wheel. You may notice groaning, squealing, or whining sounds.

Loss of power steering fluid: A bad pump can develop leaks. This can cause fluid loss and allow air into the power steering system. If the system doesn’t have enough fluid, it will be difficult to steer your car, and you may experience more system damage.

Increased wear on steering components: When the pump fails, it can place additional stress on other power steering system parts, like the steering rack and pinion. This can lead to more damage and expensive repairs.

Complete power steering system failure: Ignoring a bad pump for too long can lead to complete power steering system failure. This will cause your steering wheel to become incredibly difficult to turn.

Safety issues: When the power steering system isn’t working correctly, you’ll have much less control of the vehicle. This can lead to dangerous situations and increased risks of accidents.

What is a power steering pump?

A power steering pump is an integral part of most

power steering systems

. It’s a hydraulic pump responsible for pressurizing and circulating power steering fluid. As you turn the steering wheel, the pump sends high-pressure fluid to the steering gear, reducing the force necessary to turn the wheel, especially at low speeds.

Many modern vehicles have electric power steering (EPS) systems, which use an electric motor to help the driver turn the wheels. That said, traditional hydraulic power steering systems are still common and can be found on many vehicles on the road today.

When should I replace the power steering pump on my car?

There is no set replacement interval for the power steering pump, and most will last for more than 100,000 miles. That said, the pump can deteriorate over time, and you’ll need to replace yours when it fails. The top signs of a bad power steering pump are:

Noises while turning the steering wheel: One of the most common signs of power steering problems is a whining or groaning noise while turning the wheel.

A stiff or unresponsive steering wheel: If your steering wheel fills stiff or slow to respond, it could be a sign of a faulty power steering pump.

Squealing noises when you start the engine: This usually indicates a problem with the serpentine belt or an accessory pulley. The problem may be the result of a faulty power steering pump or pulley.

Power steering fluid leaks: If you notice red or reddish-brown puddles beneath your car, it’s probably a sign that you have a power steering fluid leak, which may be the result of a faulty pump.

Keep in mind: These symptoms can appear as the result of other problems, like a bad serpentine belt,

faulty power steering input shaft seal

, or a malfunctioning rack and pinion. The best way to accurately identify the problem is to visit a certified mechanic for an inspection.

How often should I replace my power steering pump?

There is no recommended replacement schedule for the power steering pump. But there is a maintenance schedule for the power steering system, and following it can increase the pump’s lifespan significantly. The only time you should have to replace your power steering pump is when it fails.

The top signs of pump failure include fluid leaks, a stiff steering wheel, and whining or groaning noises while turning.

Can I replace my power steering pump myself?

A power steering pump replacement can be a great DIY project for experienced hobbyists and home mechanics. It requires a moderate-to-advanced level of automotive know-how and access to some specialized tools. That said, if you’re inexperienced working on cars or uncomfortable handling the power steering system, you should contact a professional mechanic.

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FAQs

Can I keep driving with a bad power steering pump?

You should avoid driving with a bad power steering pump if possible. While you don’t need power steering to drive your car, it will be incredibly difficult to steer your car without it, which may lead to unsafe situations and loss of vehicle control. Additionally, driving with a bad pump puts extra stress on other vehicle components, potentially leading to more expensive repairs.

How many years do power steering pumps last?

On average, power steering pumps can be expected to last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles—or around seven to 10 years. However, the life of a power steering pump can vary from car to car and is based on a variety of factors, including:

The vehicle’s make and model

Maintenance practices

Driving habits

What causes a power steering pump to go bad?

Many things can contribute to a faulty power steering pump, including:

Wear and tear

Contaminated power steering fluid

Overheating

Incorrect power steering fluid or low fluid levels

Fluid leaks

Improper installation

Heavy use

Manufacturer defects

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.