How Much Does Power Steering Cost to Fix?

In the U.S. in 2025, fixing power steering typically ranges from about $70–$150 for a simple fluid service to $1,100–$2,500+ for a steering rack replacement, with common repairs like a pump or hose usually landing between $150 and $900. The exact price depends on whether your vehicle uses a hydraulic system (HPS) or electric power steering (EPS), the specific failed component, labor rates in your area, and vehicle make and model.

What You’re Paying For: Hydraulic vs. Electric Power Steering

Power steering systems come in two main types. Hydraulic systems use a belt-driven pump, fluid, hoses, and a steering rack or gearbox. Electric systems use an electric motor and control module, sometimes integrated into the steering rack or column. The component that fails determines the bill.

• Hydraulic fluid service: $70–$150
• High-pressure/return hose: $150–$500 (some vehicles up to $700+)
• Power steering pump: $350–$900 (luxury/performance models can exceed $1,200)
• Steering rack and pinion (hydraulic): $1,100–$2,500+ (trucks/luxury up to $3,500)
• Steering gearbox (many trucks/SUVs): $700–$1,500
• Serpentine/belt and pulley related to pump drive: $100–$250
• Electric power steering (EPS) motor/module: $400–$1,500
• Electric steering rack/column assembly: $1,200–$3,000+ (some European models $3,500–$4,000)
• Sensors and calibration (torque or steering-angle sensor): $100–$350 for calibration; $300–$900 if the sensor needs replacement
• Wheel alignment after rack/major steering work: $90–$150
• Diagnostic fee (often credited if you proceed with repair): $50–$170

Hydraulic repairs are often driven by leaks and wear, while electric systems fail due to electronics or motor issues. EPS parts can cost more but eliminate fluid leaks and pump issues.

2025 Price Ranges by Repair

Below are common power steering fixes and what most drivers pay in 2025, including parts and labor. Regional labor rates, vehicle complexity, and parts choice (OEM vs. aftermarket) can shift you higher or lower in these ranges.

• Fluid flush/top-off with leak check: $70–$150
• Pressure or return hose replacement: $150–$500
• Pump replacement (hydraulic): $350–$900
• Rack-and-pinion (hydraulic) replacement: $1,100–$2,500+
• Gearbox replacement (trucks/SUVs): $700–$1,500
• Electric assist motor or control module: $400–$1,500
• Electric rack/column assembly: $1,200–$3,000+
• Belt replacement (if squeal or slippage): $100–$250
• Sensor calibration/reset after steering work: $100–$250

Expect higher totals at dealership service centers, especially in major metros where labor can exceed $180–$250/hour. Independent shops typically charge $90–$160/hour.

What Affects the Cost

A few predictable factors explain why one car’s repair is $400 while another’s is $2,000. Understanding these can help you anticipate the final bill.

• System type: EPS components can be pricier, but there’s no fluid or pump to service.
• Vehicle class: Full-size trucks, European brands, and luxury models tend to cost more.
• Labor hours: Some racks/pumps require removing subframes or exhausts, adding hours.
• Parts choice: OEM parts cost more; quality remanufactured racks/pumps can save 20–40%.
• Add-ons: Alignments, new tie-rod ends, and fluid add to the total but are often necessary.
• Corrosion and seized hardware: Rust-belt vehicles often need extra labor.
• Calibration: EPS and ADAS-related calibrations add $100–$350 when required.

Your estimate should clearly separate parts, labor, taxes, shop supplies, alignment, and any calibration charges, so you can compare apples to apples.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

Steering complaints can have multiple causes. A structured approach helps your shop find the true fault and keeps you from paying twice.

1. Describe symptoms clearly: heavy steering, whining pump, intermittent assist, warning lights, or leaks on the ground.
2. Approve a diagnostic: pressure tests (hydraulic), scan for EPS trouble codes, and inspect for leaks or play.
3. Request a line-item quote: parts (OEM vs. aftermarket), labor hours, alignment, fluid, calibration, taxes/fees.
4. Ask about reman vs. new: quality reman racks and pumps often carry strong warranties and cut costs.
5. Confirm related parts: new O-rings, seals, and tie-rod ends if the rack is out; new belt if the pump seized.
6. Check warranty/recalls: some EPS issues or pumps have extended coverage or TSBs; ask the dealer to run your VIN.
7. Get two or three quotes: compare warranty length, part brands, and turnaround time—not just price.

A thorough estimate up front prevents surprises and ensures the fix addresses the root cause, not just the symptom.

Is It Safe to Drive With Power Steering Problems?

Driving with impaired power steering increases stopping distance in emergencies and can lead to sudden loss of assist. If the steering gets heavy, is noisy, or triggers a steering warning light, minimize driving and schedule service promptly.

• Hydraulic signs: red or amber fluid leaks, pump whine, foamy fluid, burnt fluid smell
• Electric signs: intermittent assist, dash warnings, jerky or notchy assist, assist loss after start
• Universal signs: steering wander, stiff wheel, uneven tire wear (alignment needed)

Total loss of assist makes the wheel very heavy—especially at low speeds. If that happens, pull over safely and arrange a tow.

How Long Repairs Take

Labor time varies by vehicle, but these are common shop-time windows if parts are on hand.

• Fluid service/bleed: 0.5–1.0 hour
• Hose replacement: 1–3 hours
• Pump replacement: 1.5–4 hours
• Rack-and-pinion or gearbox: 4–8 hours (plus alignment)
• EPS motor/module or column: 2–5 hours (plus calibration if needed)

Add time for rusted fasteners, subframe drops, or parts shipping. Many shops can turn around same day for hoses, next day for pumps, and 1–2 days for racks.

Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners

You can lower the bill while maintaining safety and reliability by being strategic about parts and timing.

• Choose quality reman parts with good warranties for racks and pumps.
• Bundle related work: alignments and tie-rod ends during rack replacement save labor later.
• Use the correct fluid: prevents repeat failures and maintains warranty.
• Shop independent specialists: often lower labor rates than dealers with similar expertise.
• Ask about core credits: returning old racks/pumps can reduce cost.
• Check extended warranties and credit-card benefits for repair coverage.

Transparent parts choices and bundling services often yield meaningful savings without compromising the repair.

Warranty, Recalls, and Insurance

Manufacturers occasionally extend coverage for EPS components or issue Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for known issues. Have a dealer run your VIN for outstanding recalls or goodwill policies, especially if your vehicle is within 5–10 years old. Extended service contracts often cover steering racks, pumps, and EPS motors minus a deductible. Insurance may cover impact-related steering damage after collisions but not wear-and-tear leaks or failures.

Bottom Line

Expect $70–$150 for simple services, $150–$900 for common hydraulic fixes (hose or pump), and $1,100–$2,500+ for rack or EPS unit replacements in 2025. Your exact cost hinges on the system type, vehicle, labor rate, and whether calibration or alignment is required. Get a clear diagnostic and a line-item estimate to avoid surprises and ensure a lasting repair.

Summary

Power steering repair costs vary widely: minor services run under $150, mid-tier fixes like hoses and pumps typically cost $150–$900, and major components such as racks or EPS units often exceed $1,100. Vehicle type, parts selection, and labor rates are the biggest drivers. Seek a proper diagnostic, compare detailed quotes, and check for warranty or recall coverage to control costs and ensure safety.

Can you still drive a car if the power steering goes out?

Yes, you can still drive a car without power steering, but it will be much harder to steer, especially at low speeds or when parking, requiring significant physical effort. You should get your vehicle serviced as soon as possible to prevent further damage or potential accidents. When the power steering fails while driving, turn on your hazard lights, carefully pull over to the shoulder, and slow down before coming to a stop. 
How to Drive Without Power Steering

• Use Both Hands: Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands to maintain control. 
• Be Prepared for More Force: You’ll need to use more physical force to turn the wheel, particularly for sharp turns. 
• Increase Engine RPMs: In a hydraulic power steering system, increasing engine speed can help the pump provide more assistance, making steering easier, especially for turns at speed. 
• Be Patient: Take your time to change lanes and make turns, as you won’t be able to counter-steer as quickly as usual. 

Why It’s Dangerous

• Accident Risk: The increased difficulty in steering can lead to loss of control, especially in emergency situations or tight corners. 
• Component Damage: Driving with a failing power steering system can cause further damage to the pump or other components. 
• Sudden Failure: The loss of power steering can be sudden and unexpected, catching drivers off guard. 

What to Do if Power Steering Fails

1. Signal: Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to a problem with your vehicle. 
2. Move to the Shoulder: Carefully and slowly pull your vehicle to the side of the road. 
3. Brake Gradually: Lightly apply the brakes as you pull over and come to a complete stop. 
4. Get it Inspected: Contact a mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible. 

Is it expensive to fix a power steering issue?

The job can be costly: between $100-$200 for new power steering pump if you DIY and around $500 to get it done by a mechanic. That said, it is not nearly as expensive as replacing your vehicle.

Is it worth fixing a power steering leak?

Is it worth it? Probably not. If you are planning to replace the car soon and just need to get a few more hundred km out of it, trying a stop-leak product might work in the short term – but in that case, it’s about the same price to just buy another liter of power steering fluid and top it up.

Is it a big job to fix power steering?

Replacing a power steering pump requires expert skills and knowledge in auto repair. It is a fairly complex repair for a technician and entails disconnecting various components, removing the old pump, installing the new pump, and then reconnecting everything properly.