How Much It Costs to Replace a Power Steering Pump on a Honda Civic

Expect $350–$900 out the door for most Honda Civics that actually have a hydraulic power steering pump (generally 2011 and earlier U.S. models), with many repairs landing around $500–$750. That total typically includes the pump, fluid, small seals, and 1–2 hours of labor. For 2012 and newer Civics, most trims use electric power steering and do not have a pump—so there’s no pump to replace; instead, repairs involve EPS components and follow different cost ranges. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you budget accurately.

Do All Civics Have a Power Steering Pump?

Not anymore. Honda switched most Civic models sold in North America to electric power steering (EPS) starting with the 2012 model year. EPS uses an electric motor rather than a hydraulic pump, so “pump replacement” doesn’t apply to these cars. Civics from about 2011 and earlier generally use a hydraulic system with a belt-driven pump, fluid reservoir, and hoses.

Typical Cost Breakdown (Hydraulic-Pump Civics, e.g., 2001–2011)

Here’s how the bill usually divides between parts and labor when replacing a hydraulic power steering pump on an older Civic.

• Parts (pump itself):
  

  • Aftermarket new: $120–$250
  • Remanufactured OEM: $180–$350
  • New OEM Honda: $300–$600

• Labor: 1.0–2.0 hours at $100–$200/hr = $100–$400 (most shops fall $150–$300)
• Fluid and small parts: Honda PSF ($20–$40), O-rings/seals ($2–$15)
• Common add-ons if needed: drive belt ($25–$60), pump pulley ($40–$100)
• Taxes/fees and shop supplies: typically $15–$60
• Total typical range: $350–$900, with many quotes clustering around $500–$750

Your final price depends on the pump type (OEM vs aftermarket), local labor rates, and whether the shop bundles in items like a new belt or a full fluid flush.

Real-World Price Ranges by Generation

Costs vary a bit by chassis and access, but most pump jobs on hydraulic Civics fall into similar ranges.

• 1996–2000 (EK): roughly $400–$800 total
• 2001–2005 (EM/ES/EP): roughly $400–$800 total
• 2006–2011 (FA/FG/FD, including Si): roughly $450–$900 total

Regional labor rates and parts choices drive most of the spread. Dealerships and high-cost metro areas trend toward the upper end, while independent shops with aftermarket parts often land near the middle.

When Replacement May Not Be Necessary

Some power-steering issues on older Civics can be resolved without replacing the pump.

• Known O-ring issue (2006–2008 especially): A small inlet O-ring can harden, letting air in and causing whine and intermittent assist, particularly when cold. The updated O-ring is only a few dollars; labor is usually 0.5–1.0 hour.
• Fluid condition: Old or incorrect fluid can cause noise and poor assist. A flush with genuine Honda PSF often quiets the system.
• Hose leaks: Return or pressure hoses can seep; fixing the hose and refilling fluid may solve the problem.
• Belt/tension: A worn or loose drive belt can mimic pump failure with squeal or intermittent assist.
• Pulley/bearing issues: Noisy pulley bearings can be replaced without a full pump swap.

If the steering is noisy but still works, a shop can quickly check for air ingestion, belt condition, and leaks before committing to a new pump.

Signs Your Pump Is Failing

These symptoms point more strongly toward an actual pump replacement.

• Persistent groaning/whining that does not improve after fluid change and O-ring replacement
• Heavy steering effort at idle or low speeds, worse when turning quickly
• Metallic glitter or dark debris in the reservoir fluid
• Noticeable fluid leaks from the pump body or shaft area
• Steering assist that fades as the car warms up despite correct fluid level

A technician can confirm with a pressure test or by inspecting for internal pump wear and shaft play.

How to Save on the Repair

You can often shave meaningful dollars off the bill with a few choices.

• Choose remanufactured or quality aftermarket pumps that include the correct fittings and seals
• Source parts yourself from reputable brands and have an independent shop install them
• Bundle a drive-belt replacement if it’s due, to avoid paying labor twice later
• Insist on genuine Honda PSF to avoid future noise complaints
• Ask about warranties (12 months/12,000 miles is common; some pumps carry longer)
• DIY is moderate difficulty: access, torque specs, careful bleeding to remove air; not recommended without proper tools

Balancing parts quality and labor rate usually offers the best value; the absolute lowest-cost pump can cost more if it fails early.

EPS-Era Civics (2012–2025): What Costs Instead?

Modern Civics generally use electric power steering, which eliminates the hydraulic pump, hoses, and fluid. If you have a 2012 or newer Civic, steering repairs typically involve these components.

• EPS steering rack (common big-ticket item): $1,000–$2,200 installed
• Steering column/motor assembly: $600–$1,200 installed
• Torque/angle sensor or control unit issues: $250–$800 depending on part and labor
• Wheel alignment (often required after rack replacement): $100–$200

Diagnosis for EPS faults usually requires scan-tool data and pinpoint testing; replacing a “pump” is not applicable on these models.

What a Proper Pump Job Includes (Hydraulic Civics)

A thorough replacement should cover more than just swapping the pump.

• Inspection for leaks, belt condition, pulley alignment, and rack/line issues
• Replacement of the pump and critical O-rings/seals
• Fluid flush with Honda PSF and correct bleeding procedure to remove air
• Verification of steering assist and noise levels on a road test
• Recommendations for belt or hose replacement if wear is present

Alignment is not typically required for a pump-only job, but any steering rack or tie-rod work should be followed by an alignment.

Summary

For Honda Civics with hydraulic power steering (about 2011 and older), replacing a failing pump typically costs $350–$900, most often $500–$750, depending on parts, labor rates, and any add-ons like belts or pulleys. Check for the common O-ring and fluid-related fixes before replacing the pump. For 2012+ Civics with electric power steering, there is no pump to replace; expect different repair paths and costs focused on EPS components.

How much would a shop charge to replace a power steering pump?

between $500 and $800
While the price of this repair can vary, expect to pay between $500 and $800 to get your power steering pump replaced. Depending on your car, the cost could exceed that price, or fall below it. The best way to know for sure is to talk with the service advisors are your repair shop.

Is replacing a power steering pump a big job?

If you’re mechanically inclined and have appropriate tools it’s usually fairly easy. It doesn’t take a lot of tools. Mostly a decent socket set, possibly a torque wrench, and a serpentine belt tensioning tool – which takes a bit of strength to use. You might also need a puller, to pull the pulley off the old ps pump.

Can I drive with a bad power steering pump?

You can technically drive with a bad power steering pump, but it is unsafe and not recommended due to significantly increased steering effort, potential for accidents, and the risk of further damage to the steering system. Driving without power steering can make it difficult to react quickly in emergencies and cause components like the steering gear to wear out prematurely. If your power steering fails, go slow, use both arms to turn the wheel, and get to a mechanic or call for a tow as soon as possible.
 
This video demonstrates what it’s like to drive a car without a functioning power steering pump: 52sSeanbeingseanYouTube · Aug 28, 2017
Why driving with a bad power steering pump is dangerous:

• Increased Steering Effort: The steering wheel will feel heavy and stiff, especially at low speeds and when parking. 
• Difficulty in Emergencies: A lack of power assist makes it harder to react quickly to avoid accidents, increasing the risk of a collision. 
• Potential for Further Damage: Metal shavings from a failing pump can enter and damage other steering system components, like the steering gear, leading to more expensive repairs. 

What to do if your power steering fails:

1. 1. Go Slow: If you must drive, keep your speed low to make steering less challenging. 
2. 2. Use Two Arms: You will need to use significant force, often both arms, to turn the steering wheel. 
3. 3. Seek Immediate Repair: Get your car to a qualified mechanic or mobile repair service as soon as possible. 
4. 4. Consider a Tow: If the pump is significantly damaged or if the steering is impossible to control, have the vehicle towed to a repair shop. 

How much to replace a power steering pump on a Honda Civic?

A Honda Civic power steering pump replacement can cost anywhere from $500 to over $1,300, with a general average for labor and parts falling around $700 to $1,000, though this varies significantly by year and location. The price depends on the age of your Civic, whether you use genuine OEM or aftermarket parts, and your local shop’s labor rates. For a specific estimate, use online tools from Kelley Blue Book or RepairPal by entering your vehicle’s year. 
Factors influencing the cost

• Vehicle Year: Older models generally have lower replacement costs, while newer or hybrid models tend to be more expensive. 
• Parts Quality: Genuine Honda (OEM) parts are typically more expensive than aftermarket options. 
• Labor Costs: Hourly rates for mechanics vary by region, affecting the overall price. 
• Related Issues: A mechanic might need to address other components, such as O-rings on the pump’s return line, which can add to the bill. 

How to get an accurate estimate

1. 1. Visit a reputable online estimator: Use services like Kelley Blue Book or RepairPal and input your Civic’s specific year and model. 
2. 2. Contact local mechanics: Get quotes from several repair shops in your area to compare costs for parts and labor. 

When to suspect a bad pump 

• Whining or groaning noises: when turning the steering wheel.
• Stiff or difficult-to-turn steering .
• Leaking power steering fluid: under your vehicle.