How Much Does It Cost to Replace Car Steering?

For most cars in the U.S. in 2025, replacing the steering rack—the part most people mean by “replacing the steering”—typically costs $900 to $2,500 for hydraulic systems and $1,500 to $3,500 for electric power steering (EPS), parts and labor included. Other steering fixes, like tie-rod ends or a power-steering pump, often run a few hundred dollars. The exact price depends on which component failed, your vehicle type, labor rates in your area, and whether calibration and alignment are required.

What “Steering Replacement” Usually Means

Shops rarely replace an entire steering “system” at once. Instead, they fix the failed component: the steering rack (also called a rack-and-pinion or gear), power-steering pump or hoses (on hydraulic setups), the steering column or intermediate shaft, or tie-rod ends. Electric power steering racks on newer vehicles combine assist motors and sensors, which can be pricier but reduce the number of hydraulic parts.

Typical Steering Repair Costs by Component

The following list outlines common steering repairs and what you can expect to pay in 2025, including both parts and labor. These ranges reflect mainstream vehicles; luxury models, heavy-duty trucks, and some EVs can run higher.

• Steering rack (hydraulic rack-and-pinion): $900–$2,500
• Steering rack (electric power steering/EPS): $1,500–$3,500
• Steering column (complete): $700–$2,200
• Power-steering pump: $350–$900
• Power-steering hoses/lines: $150–$600 each (pressure lines often at the higher end)
• Tie-rod ends (per side, inner/outer as needed): $200–$500; both sides: $400–$1,000
• Intermediate steering shaft: $250–$800
• Power-steering fluid service/bleed: $70–$150
• Wheel alignment (often required after rack/tie rods): $100–$200
• Steering angle sensor/ADAS calibration (when required): $100–$350

Your final invoice may include shop supplies and taxes, and can increase if corrosion, subframe removal, or seized fasteners add labor time.

What Drives the Price Up or Down

Several variables influence steering repair costs. Understanding these factors can help you compare estimates and avoid surprises at checkout.

• Vehicle make/model: Luxury brands, European imports, HD trucks, and some EVs use pricier parts and can take longer to service.
• Steering type: EPS racks are generally more expensive than hydraulic racks; they may also require calibration.
• Labor rates: Commonly $100–$200 per hour in 2025, varying by region and shop type.
• Alignment and calibration: A post-repair alignment is usually mandatory; some cars need steering angle sensor or ADAS camera/radar calibration.
• Access and rust: Subframe drops, AWD packaging, and corrosion can add hours of labor.
• Parts choice: OEM/new vs. remanufactured vs. aftermarket changes price and warranty length.
• Core charges: Racks and pumps often carry refundable core fees ($100–$300) if you return the old unit.
• Bundled work: Replacing worn hoses, belts, or tie rods while the system is open can save future labor.

When comparing quotes, check what’s included: alignment, calibration, fluid, new hardware, and whether the price is for OEM or remanufactured parts.

Sample Estimates by Vehicle Class

Below are ballpark totals for a steering rack replacement, illustrating how vehicle class affects price. Individual models can fall outside these ranges.

• Compact/economy cars: $900–$1,800 (hydraulic), $1,400–$2,600 (EPS)
• Mid-size sedans/compact SUVs: $1,000–$2,200 (hydraulic), $1,500–$2,900 (EPS)
• Full-size SUVs/pickups (light-duty): $1,200–$2,600 (hydraulic), $1,800–$3,200 (EPS)
• Luxury/performance brands: $1,800–$3,200 (hydraulic), $2,200–$3,500+ (EPS)
• EVs and advanced-driver-assist models: typically $2,000–$3,500+ (EPS with calibration)

These figures assume standard parts and typical labor without severe rust, collision damage, or extensive subframe removal.

Symptoms, Diagnosis, and When Replacement Is Necessary

Common signs of steering trouble include fluid leaks, heavy steering effort, whining or groaning when turning, clunks or play in the wheel, wandering, or uneven tire wear. A shop can diagnose the system—often a $100–$200 inspection—and specify whether you need a rack, tie rods, pump, hoses, or a column/shaft component. Many leaks or noises can be traced to hoses or pumps rather than the rack itself.

Safety and Drivability

Steering faults can be safety-critical. Severe leaks, binding, or excessive play can make the car unpredictable. Avoid highway driving until diagnosed, and address warning lights or EPS faults promptly; some vehicles reduce or disable assist when faults are detected.

Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners

There are legitimate ways to reduce cost while maintaining reliability and safety. Consider the strategies below when discussing options with your mechanic.

• Quality remanufactured racks/pumps with solid warranties can cost less than new OEM.
• Get quotes from reputable independent shops; labor rates are often lower than dealer rates.
• Confirm alignment and any calibrations are included to avoid add-on charges later.
• Replace inner/outer tie-rod ends and worn hoses proactively during a rack job to save future labor.
• Ask about parts warranties and labor coverage; many reman racks carry 12–36 month warranties.
• Check for recalls or technical service bulletins that may reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
• Avoid unknown used racks; they’re risky and can cost more if the job must be repeated.

Clear, itemized estimates help you compare apples to apples and prevent surprise fees after the work begins.

How Long the Job Takes

Most steering rack replacements take 2–6 labor hours; EPS racks, subframe drops, heavy rust, or seized fasteners can push this higher. Add time for alignment and any required calibrations. Simpler jobs like a power-steering pump or tie-rod ends are typically 1–2 hours plus alignment if applicable.

Bottom Line

Expect $900–$2,500 for a typical hydraulic steering rack replacement and $1,500–$3,500 for EPS, with smaller steering repairs often a few hundred dollars. Your final price will hinge on the exact failed part, your vehicle, labor rates, and whether alignment and calibration are needed. Ask for an itemized estimate that specifies parts type, warranty, alignment, and calibration to avoid surprises.