FAQs
On average, replacing your power steering pump can cost between $500 and $900, but it's essential to avoid more serious damage to the power steering system.
How much should it cost to replace a power steering pump? ›
On average, replacing your power steering pump can cost between $500 and $900, but it's essential to avoid more serious damage to the power steering system.
What is the average life of a power steering pump? ›
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.
Is replacing a power steering pump easy? ›
The pump replacement is easy to do once a few tricks are recognized. For example, do not attempt pump replacement without locating a power steering pump pulley puller. Using a standard pulley puller may make the pulley out of round -- not a good thing!
Why isn t my power steering working after i replaced the pump? ›
This could indicate that the fluid is old and deteriorated, and may require a steering system flush and fresh steering oil to fix the problem. If it is still the same, it could be due to a blockage in the steering rack or a kinked steering pipe.
How long does it take a mechanic to replace a power steering pump? ›
An experienced mechanic can usually replace a power steering pump in less than half a day of work. The location of the pump and the particular model will vary the time needed. If you are doing the work yourself, good luck. Budget a day and have your AAA card ready if it all goes off the rails.
Can I drive with a bad power steering pump? ›
You can drive with a bad power steering pump, but it's not recommended. The pump is responsible for transmitting power to the steering wheel, so if it's not working properly, you won't be able to steer the car. In some cases, you may even experience difficulty braking the car.
What does it feel like when the power steering pump goes out? ›
Delayed Steering Response
A power steering pump in optimal condition ensures an immediate response when you turn the steering wheel. However, if you notice that your steering wheel is slow to respond or feels sluggish, it's a red flag that the power steering pump may be failing.
What to do after replacing a power steering pump? ›
After replacing a power steering pump or pressure hose, it's always a good plan to flush and bleed the power steering system of air. For most power steering-equipped vehicles, this is a simple process. Turning the steering wheel lock to lock several times will remove any unwanted air in there.
Do I need to replace hoses when replacing a power steering pump? ›
Yes you need the high pressure hose and low pressure hose, as well as the o-ring seals for the ends.
The power steering pump contains many sensitive components. If those components wear or fail, the pump will simply stop working. This cuts your power steering completely.
Why would a power steering pump need to be replaced? ›
A faulty pump makes the steering wheel difficult to turn. You need a pump replacement to reduce the stiffness.
Why is my car still whining after I replaced the power steering pump? ›
Trapped Air In The Power Steering Fluid Or Pump
It's possible the whining noise is simply coming from trapped air bubbles in your power steering fluid. If you suspect this is the case, you can confirm it by removing the cap from the power steering fluid reservoir and checking if any bubbles or froth has formed in it.
Do power steering pumps fail suddenly? ›
This isn't usually something that happens suddenly. Most of the time it starts with a worn seal slowly starting to wear out and fail or a hose developing a minor flaw. Eventually, these small problems become bigger, and when they become bigger, they cause your pump to fail and your power steering to give out.
Can you reset a power steering pump? ›
If something doesn't line up when the computer collects this information, it will turn on the warning light. Often, you can fix the problem by pulling off the road, shutting the car off, and letting it sit for a minute. When you turn the car back on, the system will reset itself.
What mileage does a power steering pump go bad? ›
Generally, the power steering pump will last for about 100,000 miles.
What happens to a car when the power steering pump goes out? ›
Your Steering Wheel Doesn't Respond
You may turn the wheel, but your vehicle may not change direction. As you can imagine, this can put you in a very dangerous situation and might even cause an automobile accident. This is why it's important to have your power steering problem addressed at the first sign of trouble.