How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Power Steering Rack?

Replacing a power steering rack typically costs $1,000–$2,500 in the U.S., including parts, labor, alignment, and fluids. Mainstream sedans often fall around $900–$1,600, trucks and SUVs around $1,200–$2,500, and luxury or European models $1,800–$3,500. Prices vary based on whether the system is hydraulic or electric (EPS), the vehicle’s design, labor time, and whether calibration or additional parts are needed.

Typical Price Breakdown

The total bill is a combination of parts, labor, and necessary services that go with steering work. Here’s how shops commonly build the estimate.

• Parts (rack and pinion assembly): $300–$900 for remanufactured; $700–$1,600+ for new OEM/OES; $900–$2,200+ for many electric power steering (EPS) racks
• Labor: 3–6 hours typical; up to 8–10 hours on some AWD/truck/luxury models. At $100–$200+ per hour, that’s roughly $300–$1,200+
• Wheel alignment: $100–$200 (almost always required after rack replacement)
• Fluids and bleeding (hydraulic systems): $20–$60 for fluid; $15–$50 shop supplies
• Programming/calibration: $75–$200 for steering angle sensor/EPS resets; $150–$400 if advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) calibration is required on certain models
• Core charge (refundable with old rack return): $100–$300
• Related parts if worn or leaking: $50–$250 per inner/outer tie-rod; $100–$350 per pressure/return hose

Add these together and most customers land around $1,000–$2,500. Costs trend higher when access requires subframe removal, corrosion complicates the job, or when EPS components require programming or specialized calibration.

What Drives the Price Up or Down

Several vehicle- and job-specific factors determine where your quote falls within (or beyond) the typical range.

• Vehicle type and drivetrain: AWD/4×4 and large SUVs/trucks often require more labor; compact sedans tend to be cheaper
• System type: EPS racks usually cost more than hydraulic racks and may require programming
• Access and design: Some cars need a subframe drop, which increases labor hours
• Parts choice: New OEM typically costs more than remanufactured or high-quality aftermarket
• Local labor rates: Urban and dealership rates are generally higher than independent shops
• Rust/corrosion: Seized bolts or lines can add time and parts
• Add-ons: Tie-rod ends, high-pressure lines, or a pump replacement if contamination is found
• Calibrations: Steering angle sensor reset is common; some models may require additional ADAS procedures

In short, the more complex the access, the more premium the parts, and the higher the labor rate, the higher your final bill will be.

Real-World Estimates by Vehicle Category

These are ballpark ranges by category to help set expectations. Actual quotes vary by brand, region, and vehicle design.

• Compact/midsize sedans (e.g., Civic, Corolla, Camry, Accord): $900–$1,600
• Minivans and crossovers (e.g., RAV4, CR-V, Explorer): $1,100–$2,000
• Full-size trucks/SUVs and 4×4 (e.g., F-150, Silverado, Tahoe): $1,200–$2,500
• Luxury/European (e.g., BMW, Audi, Mercedes): $1,800–$3,500
• EVs and modern EPS-heavy models: $1,400–$3,000 (EPS racks and calibrations can add cost)
• Performance/specialty vehicles: $2,000–$4,000+ depending on parts availability and access

These categories reflect common patterns: larger vehicles and premium brands generally cost more, while simpler, mass-market platforms are typically less expensive.

When Replacement Is Necessary—and When It Isn’t

Not every steering issue requires a full rack replacement. Spotting symptoms and understanding alternatives can save money.

• Symptoms pointing to the rack: persistent fluid leaks at the rack boots, wandering or excessive play, uneven steering assist, clunks from within the rack, metal in fluid
• Sometimes repair suffices: inner tie-rod replacement, hose replacement, fluid flush for minor contamination, or addressing a failing pump
• When replacement is the norm: internal rack wear, shaft/bearing damage, or EPS sensor/gear faults that aren’t serviceable

Shops often recommend a remanufactured or new rack when internal wear or EPS faults are present; tie rods and hoses may be done at the same time to avoid repeat labor.

What the Job Includes

Knowing the usual steps helps you evaluate quotes and understand labor time.

1. Confirm the diagnosis and inspect related components (tie rods, pump, lines)
2. Remove necessary underbody components; some vehicles require a subframe drop
3. Disconnect tie-rod ends, steering shaft, and hydraulic lines (if equipped) or electrical connectors (EPS)
4. Remove the old rack, transfer brackets and boots as needed, and install the replacement rack
5. Torque fasteners to spec; reconnect lines/connectors; replace tie rods if needed
6. Refill and bleed the system (hydraulic) or perform EPS initialization/programming
7. Perform a four-wheel alignment and reset the steering angle sensor
8. Road test and check for leaks, noises, and assisted-steering operation

The need for subframe work, stubborn fasteners, or programming steps is what pushes jobs from a few hours into an all-day repair.

How to Save Without Cutting Corners

You can reduce costs while maintaining reliability by being strategic about parts and timing.

• Get 2–3 quotes from reputable independents and a dealer for comparison
• Ask for a high-quality remanufactured rack with a strong warranty if OEM new is pricey
• Replace inner/outer tie rods while the rack is out to avoid duplicate labor later
• Bundle work that also requires a subframe drop (e.g., motor mounts) if due soon
• Confirm the quote includes alignment, fluid, programming, and any sensor resets
• Return the core promptly to recover the core charge
• Verify correct fluid type and a system flush if contamination is suspected
• Check for service bulletins or extended coverage on certain models

These steps can trim hundreds of dollars from the final bill and help ensure the repair lasts.

Questions to Ask Your Shop

A few targeted questions can clarify scope, avoid surprise fees, and protect your warranty.

• Which rack are you installing (OEM, OES, or reman brand) and what’s the warranty?
• Is a four-wheel alignment included, and will you reset the steering angle sensor?
• Do you expect to replace tie-rod ends or hoses? Are those priced in?
• How many labor hours are estimated, and what could increase that?
• Are programming or EPS calibrations needed, and are those charges included?
• What is the core charge, and how do I get it refunded?
• Will rust/corrosion add costs, and how do you handle seized hardware?

Clear answers up front minimize change orders and help you compare quotes apples-to-apples.

Warranty and Longevity

Most remanufactured racks carry at least 12-month/12,000-mile coverage, with many offering 24-month/24,000-mile or limited lifetime warranties. New OEM racks often come with 12-month/12,000-mile parts coverage (longer if installed at a dealer). Warranties usually require proper fluid, flushing, boot integrity, and alignment. With quality parts and a clean system, a replacement rack often lasts 100,000–200,000 miles, though harsh roads, oversized tires, and contamination can shorten life.

Summary

Expect to pay roughly $1,000–$2,500 to replace a power steering rack, with compact sedans on the lower end and large, luxury, or EPS-equipped vehicles on the higher end. The total reflects parts (new or reman), labor time, alignment, fluids, and any resets or calibrations. To get the best value, compare detailed quotes, consider quality reman parts with strong warranties, and ensure alignment and necessary programming are included.

Is it worth it to replace a power steering rack?

If the damage is minor and the repair cost is significantly lower than a new rack, repairing may be the way to go. However, if the rack is heavily damaged, old, or if you want to ensure reliability, replacing it is generally recommended.

How much is it to replace a power steering rack?

A power steering rack replacement typically costs between $1,300 and $3,000, though this can vary significantly. The total cost includes parts, which can range from under $300 for remanufactured units to over $1,500 for new ones, and labor, often ranging from $500 to $800 but influenced by vehicle complexity and location. A final wheel alignment is also a necessary, additional cost.
 
What Determines the Cost?

• Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury or high-performance vehicles often have higher part and labor costs due to their complexity. 
• Part Quality: The price of the steering rack assembly varies significantly between remanufactured parts and brand-new OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. 
• Labor Time: The rack’s accessibility within the vehicle’s engine bay affects labor time and cost. 
• Geographic Location: Labor rates can differ significantly based on your region’s cost of living and demand for auto services. 
• Additional Repairs: Worn tie rods, boots, or hydraulic hoses may also need replacement, adding to the total cost. 

What to Expect

• Parts: You can expect to pay for the steering rack assembly, and potentially new tie rods and hydraulic hoses. 
• Labor: Mechanics will charge for the time and expertise required to remove and install the new unit. 
• Alignment: A necessary wheel alignment is typically required after replacing the steering rack, as the new part changes the steering geometry. 

How to Get an Accurate Estimate 

• Contact Your Local Mechanic: Get a detailed quote from a trusted local shop for a precise estimate for your specific vehicle and location.
• Use Online Estimators: Websites like RepairPal can provide a cost range based on your vehicle’s information.

How many hours does it take to replace a power steering rack?

Replacing the steering rack and pinion involves disconnecting tie rods, power steering lines, and mounting bolts. Expect 4-6 hours for a skilled mechanic. Drain power steering fluid first, then remove the old rack carefully to avoid damaging boots or seals.

Can I drive with a broken power steering rack?

It definitely is not a good idea to drive, or attempt to drive, with a damaged steering rack. There is always a chance of a catastrophic failure, making your truck unsteerable, and, more likely than not, causing an accident.