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

Expect to pay about $900 to $2,500 total in the U.S. for power steering rack replacement in 2025, with economy cars often near the low end and trucks, SUVs, and luxury models running higher. That total typically includes $450 to $1,400 for parts, $300 to $1,500 for labor (3–6+ hours at $100–$250/hr), plus a $100–$200 wheel alignment and fresh fluid. Electric power steering (EPS) racks and premium/OEM parts can push totals to $2,500–$4,500 on certain vehicles. Below is a deeper look at what drives the price and how to plan your repair.

What’s Included in the Price

Most quotes bundle parts, labor, alignment, and incidentals. Here’s how a typical estimate breaks down and what each line item covers.

• Parts: $450–$1,400 for a remanufactured or new rack (hydraulic); $800–$2,200 for many EPS racks with integrated motor/sensors.
• Labor: 3–6 hours in many cars; 6–10+ hours if the subframe must be lowered, on AWD vehicles, or in rust-belt conditions.
• Wheel alignment: $100–$200, almost always required after a rack swap.
• Power steering fluid: $10–$30 (hydraulic systems) or a system flush if contamination is suspected.
• Programming/calibration: $50–$200 for EPS racks needing angle sensor calibration or software updates.
• Ancillary parts: $50–$400 for inner/outer tie rods, rack bushings, or corroded lines, if needed.

Together, these items make up the final number you’ll see on the invoice; the mix varies by vehicle design, condition, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used.

Key Factors That Affect Price

Several variables determine where your quote lands within the range. Understanding them helps you compare estimates apples-to-apples.

• Vehicle type and packaging: Compact cars are cheaper; large trucks/SUVs and performance or luxury models cost more.
• Steering type: Hydraulic racks are usually cheaper than EPS racks, which include motors and sensors.
• Part choice: OEM new is priciest; high-quality remanufactured units save money; used parts are cheapest but riskier.
• Labor rate and time: Independent shops often charge $100–$170/hr; dealerships commonly $160–$250/hr in major metros.
• Rust/corrosion: Seized fasteners and lines can add time and parts in snow-belt regions.
• Additional repairs: Worn tie rods, leaking lines, or a required subframe drop increase cost.
• Calibration needs: EPS systems may require scan-tool routines or programming after installation.

Each factor can shift the final bill up or down; the biggest swings typically come from part selection (OEM vs reman) and labor complexity.

Typical Price Ranges by Vehicle Segment (USD, 2025)

While exact prices depend on your VIN and location, these segment-based ranges reflect common totals at reputable U.S. shops.

• Compact/midsize cars (hydraulic rack): $900–$1,600 total.
• Compact/midsize cars (EPS rack): $1,200–$2,100 total.
• Half-ton pickups and mainstream SUVs: $1,200–$2,500 total (higher if subframe/AWD complicates access).
• Luxury/performance models: $1,800–$3,500+ total, especially with EPS or adaptive systems.
• Difficult applications (tight packaging, heavy corrosion): $2,000–$4,500 possible.

Use these ranges as a ballpark; your specific model and condition will determine where you fall within them.

Labor Time and Shop Rates

Book time varies widely by model. Knowing the labor hours on your estimate helps you understand costs and compare quotes.

• Common FWD sedans: ~3–5 hours.
• AWD crossovers/compact SUVs: ~4–7 hours (subframe drop more likely).
• Trucks/large SUVs: ~4–8 hours, possibly more with rust.
• Luxury/performance with tight packaging: ~6–10+ hours.

Multiply hours by the shop’s posted rate and add parts, alignment, and incidentals to approximate your total.

Related Services Often Needed

A rack replacement is a good time to address associated wear items and system hygiene to protect your investment.

• Inner/outer tie rods: Often replaced with the rack; adds $100–$300 parts plus minimal extra labor.
• Power steering flush (hydraulic): Helps prevent contamination and prolongs component life.
• Steering angle sensor reset (EPS): Ensures proper assist and stability-control function.
• Inspection of lines, boots, and bushings: Prevents future leaks or play.

Bundling these tasks during rack replacement usually saves labor and reduces future shop visits.

How to Save Money and What to Ask

Smart choices around parts and shop selection can meaningfully reduce your bill without compromising safety.

• Compare 2–3 written estimates that list labor hours, parts brand/source, and included services (alignment, calibration).
• Consider remanufactured racks from reputable brands with solid warranties (often 2–3 years).
• Ask about tie-rod inclusion and alignment in the quote to avoid add-ons.
• Confirm EPS calibration/programming is included when applicable.
• Check for core charges on reman racks and return the old unit promptly for credit.
• Use independent specialists for lower labor rates if your vehicle is out of warranty.

Clarity on scope and parts quality prevents surprises and helps you secure the best value.

DIY Considerations

Replacing a steering rack is a safety-critical job that can be complex. DIY is feasible for experienced enthusiasts with proper tools.

• Tools and equipment: Jack stands/lift, torque wrench, line wrenches, pullers, and a scan tool for EPS resets.
• Challenges: Subframe support/drop, hydraulic bleeding, alignment requirement, EPS calibration.
• Risk: Incorrect installation can cause steering play, pull, or electronic faults.

Most owners are better served by a professional shop; if DIY, plan for an alignment and any necessary calibrations afterward.

Warranty and Core Charges

Policies vary by part supplier and shop, and they affect your true cost of ownership.

• Part warranties: 12 months (budget) to lifetime (some aftermarket); labor is typically 90 days–12 months.
• Core charges: $100–$400 on reman racks; refundable when you return the old unit in rebuildable condition.
• OEM vs aftermarket: OEM may integrate better with EPS systems; high-quality aftermarket remans can offer strong value.

Review warranty terms and keep paperwork; it’s your safety net if defects arise.

Do You Really Need a New Rack?

Some steering issues mimic a failed rack or can be resolved with less expensive repairs. Diagnosis matters.

• Symptoms pointing to the rack: Leaks from rack boots, dead spots in steering, clunks with internal play, EPS faults with no column issues.
• Check cheaper causes first: Low fluid, bad pump, worn tie rods/ball joints, misalignment, or leaking hoses.
• Scan and inspect: For EPS, scan for codes; for hydraulic, inspect for contamination and pressure-test as needed.

A thorough inspection can save hundreds if the root cause isn’t the rack itself.

Bottom Line

In 2025, most drivers will spend $900–$2,500 to replace a power steering rack, with higher costs for EPS-equipped, luxury, or rust-prone vehicles. Parts choice (OEM vs reman), labor time, and required alignment/calibration drive the total. Get detailed quotes, confirm what’s included, and weigh reputable remanufactured options to keep costs in check while maintaining safety.

Summary

Budget roughly $900–$2,500 for a steering rack replacement in the U.S., more for complex or luxury models. The bill combines the rack itself, labor, an alignment, fluid, and (for EPS) calibration. Prices depend heavily on vehicle design, parts selection, and local labor rates. Obtain itemized estimates, verify included services, and consider quality reman parts to balance cost and reliability.

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

approximately 2 to 8 hours
Replacing a steering rack is a long process and can take approximately 2 to 8 hours, depending on your vehicle. This includes disassembling both wheels, tie rods, and the steering mechanism. The repair can also take multiple days, which can lead to increased labor charges and garage fees.

Is fixing a steering rack expensive?

The average cost for a Rack and Pinion Replacement is between $1,948 and $2,363. Labor costs are estimated between $501 and $736 while parts are priced between $1,446 and $1,627. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Can you drive with a bad power steering rack?

No, you should not drive with a bad power steering rack; it poses a significant safety risk by compromising your vehicle’s steering control and can lead to a loss of control, a steering system failure, or even a complete breakdown, making it unsafe for yourself and other drivers on the road. Instead, you should have the vehicle towed to a professional mechanic for prompt inspection and repair or replacement of the failing part. 
Why Driving with a Bad Rack is Dangerous

• Loss of Steering Control: Opens in new tabA failing steering rack makes steering difficult, unreliable, and less precise, increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle. 
• Potential for Sudden Failure: Opens in new tabA compromised rack can fail completely without warning, leading to an immediate loss of steering assistance and potentially causing a serious accident. 
• Increased Risk of Accidents: Opens in new tabImpaired steering significantly increases the danger of traffic accidents, especially during critical situations requiring precise maneuvers. 
• Further Damage to the Vehicle: Opens in new tabContinued use of a faulty steering rack can exacerbate the problem and cause damage to other components of the steering system, leading to more costly repairs. 
• Safety Hazard to Others: Opens in new tabYou are putting other road users at risk by driving a vehicle with compromised steering. 

What to Do Instead

1. Stop Driving: If you notice any symptoms of a bad power steering rack, such as steering fluid leaks, loose or difficult steering, or a loss of steering responsiveness, stop driving the vehicle immediately. 
2. Get Professional Help: Arrange to have the vehicle towed to a qualified mechanic or auto repair shop for a thorough inspection of the steering system. 
3. Address the Problem Promptly: Have the failing rack and pinion repaired or replaced as soon as possible to restore safe driving conditions and prevent further damage.