What to do when your power steering fails

If your power steering fails while driving, keep a firm two‑handed grip on the wheel, slow gradually, signal, and steer to a safe stop; do not turn off the ignition, and once parked, check for fluid loss, belt damage, or blown fuses and call for assistance if steering remains heavy. Power steering failure can feel alarming because the wheel suddenly becomes very hard to turn, but staying calm and following a few deliberate steps will help you maintain control and prevent further damage.

Immediate actions behind the wheel

When power assist cuts out, the vehicle will still steer, but it takes much more effort—especially at low speeds. The steps below help you stabilize the car, alert other road users, and reach a safe stopping place without compounding the problem.

1. Stay calm, keep both hands at 9 and 3 o’clock, and brace for heavier steering effort.
2. Keep the vehicle straight; avoid sudden or large steering inputs.
3. Activate hazard lights and gently lift off the accelerator.
4. Signal and start moving toward the right shoulder or a safe turnout when it’s clear.
5. Increase following distance; the car may require more effort to maneuver around obstacles.
6. Brake smoothly and progressively—avoid stabbing the brakes.
7. Do not turn the ignition off while moving; it can lock the steering and disable safety systems.
8. If steering effort is extreme at very low speed, let the car roll slightly before turning—motion reduces steering effort.
9. Once stopped in a safe spot, set the parking brake and place the transmission in Park (or in gear for manuals).
10. Note any warning lights (battery, power steering, temperature) and unusual sounds or smells before you shut the engine off.

Executing these steps methodically preserves control and positions you to diagnose the issue without putting yourself or others at risk.

Diagnosing the cause after you stop

Two systems are common: hydraulic power steering (HPS) using fluid pressure, and electric power steering (EPS) using an electric motor. A quick check can reveal whether the issue is fluid, belt, pump, or electrical.

Hydraulic-assist systems: what to check

Hydraulic systems rely on a pump driven by a belt and specific fluid circulating through hoses and a steering rack or gearbox. Use the following checks to identify obvious faults.

• Fluid level: With the engine off, check the power steering reservoir level and condition. Look for low level, foamy fluid, or metal flakes.
• Correct fluid: Only top up with the fluid specified in your owner’s manual (power steering fluid or ATF type as listed). Do not mix types.
• Leaks: Inspect under the car and around hoses, pump, and rack for fresh fluid. A red or amber oily puddle often indicates a leak.
• Drive/serpentine belt: Verify the belt is present, tensioned, and not shredded. A failed belt can also affect the alternator and water pump.
• Noises: Groaning or whining that changes with steering input often points to low fluid or a failing pump.

If the fluid is very low or the belt is damaged, do not continue driving—running the pump dry or without a belt can cause expensive damage and may also compromise charging and engine cooling.

Electric power steering (EPS): what to check

EPS systems use an electric motor and control module. Steering assistance can drop out due to electrical faults, overheating, or low system voltage.

• Warning light: A steering wheel icon or “POWER STEERING” message indicates a fault stored in the system.
• Battery/charging: Check for a battery or alternator warning light; low voltage can disable EPS.
• Simple reset: With the vehicle safely parked, turn the engine off for 1–2 minutes, then restart. Intermittent faults may clear temporarily.
• Fuses/relays: Inspect the power steering/EPS fuse and main power/ground connections if accessible.
• Heat/overload: After heavy parking maneuvers, some EPS units reduce assist until they cool. Assistance may return after a short rest.

If the EPS warning persists or steering effort remains high, arrange a tow; continued driving without assist is strenuous and can be unsafe in traffic or at low speeds.

Warning signs that often precede failure

Catching early symptoms can help you address problems before assist disappears entirely. Be alert for the following cues and schedule service promptly.

• Steering feels progressively heavier or intermittently stiff.
• Whining, groaning, or moaning when turning the wheel (often with HPS).
• Power steering warning light or battery/charging light illuminated.
• Burning oil or hot electronics smell after parking maneuvers.
• Visible fluid spots under the front of the car or damp hoses/rack boots.
• Intermittent assist that cuts in and out over bumps (possible loose connection).

Addressing these signs early typically limits repair costs and reduces the chance of a sudden loss of assist while driving.

Can you keep driving without power steering?

Technically yes—the mechanical link remains—but it’s risky. Steering effort increases dramatically at low speeds, making evasive maneuvers difficult. If a serpentine belt broke, you may also lose alternator charging and, on many cars, the water pump, leading to rapid battery drain or engine overheating. If the engine stalls, expect only one or two vacuum-assisted brake applications before the pedal hardens. The safest choice is to stop in a secure location and call for roadside assistance or a tow.

Preventive maintenance to avoid power steering failures

Routine checks catch wear and fluid issues before they cause a roadside emergency. The items below are simple but effective.

• Inspect the serpentine belt and tensioner at least annually or per the service schedule.
• Check power steering fluid level and condition; flush per manufacturer intervals for HPS.
• Examine hoses and rack boots for dampness or cracks; replace at the first sign of leakage.
• Keep battery and charging system healthy; weak voltage can disable EPS.
• Avoid holding the steering at full lock for more than a few seconds to reduce pump or motor strain.
• Address steering noises promptly; they rarely fix themselves.

Consistent maintenance reduces the chance of sudden assist loss and often extends the life of pumps, racks, and EPS components.

Safety and roadside etiquette

If you must stop on the shoulder, make yourself visible and minimize exposure to traffic. These practices improve safety while you await help.

• Park as far from moving traffic as possible, ideally beyond the fog line on a firm surface.
• Keep hazard lights on; use a reflective triangle or flares if you have them and it’s safe to deploy.
• Exit the vehicle on the non-traffic side and stand well away from the roadway.
• Contact roadside assistance; describe your symptoms (warning lights, noises, fluid loss).
• Consult your owner’s manual for fluid specifications and EPS fuse locations before attempting fixes.

Taking these precautions protects you and clarifies the issue for responders, speeding up safe resolution.

Summary

When power steering fails, keep control with a firm grip, slow smoothly, signal, and pull over safely without shutting off the ignition mid‑drive. Once stopped, check for low fluid or belt issues on hydraulic systems and for electrical or voltage problems on EPS. Driving without assist is possible but unsafe—especially if a belt failure also affects charging or cooling—so arrange professional help. Regular inspections of belts, fluids, hoses, and the charging system greatly reduce the likelihood of a steering assist failure.

What do you do if your power steering fails?

If your power steering goes out when you are driving, it is best to get to the side of the road to safety. Turn on your hazards and apply your brakes slowly to maintain control of the vehicle and guide it off of the road. Remember you will need to turn the wheel hard to get the tires to respond.

How much does it cost to fix power steering failure?

Fixing power steering can cost anywhere from $10 for a fluid top-off to well over $1,000 for a full system replacement. Most repairs are for common issues like a faulty power steering pump, which can cost $500 to $900 to replace, or a leaking hose, which is less expensive at $60 to $150. The final cost depends on the specific part needed, the make and model of your vehicle, and the labor rates at your shop. 
Cost Breakdown by Component

• Power Steering Fluid: Opens in new tabFor a simple top-off, it’s a cheap fix, costing around $10 to $20. 
• Hose Replacement: Opens in new tabA leaky hose can be fixed for $60 to $150, with labor costs making up a significant portion of that price, according to Jiffy Lube. 
• Power Steering Pump: Opens in new tabExpect to pay $500 to $900 on average for a pump replacement, though this varies significantly by vehicle, says Synchrony. 
• Power Steering Rack and Pinion: Opens in new tabA complete rack and pinion replacement is a more expensive job, with costs potentially reaching $1,000 or more, according to Reddit users. 

Factors Influencing the Cost

• Parts vs. Labor: The price of parts and the labor rate for the mechanic are the biggest cost factors. 
• Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury or high-end vehicles may have more expensive parts, driving up the total cost, notes Kelley Blue Book. 
• Type of Part: Opting for a new, rebuilt, or used part affects the initial cost; a new pump is typically more expensive than a rebuilt or used one. 
• Dealerships vs. Independent Shops: Dealerships often charge 20% to 50% more than independent shops for the same repair, according to CarTalk. 

What to Do

1. Check Your Fluid: The easiest and cheapest fix is often simply adding more power steering fluid, says Earnhardt Lexus. 
2. Get a Professional Diagnosis: Have a mechanic inspect your system to pinpoint the exact problem, whether it’s a simple leak or a more serious component failure. 
3. Request a Detailed Estimate: Ask for an itemized quote that includes parts and labor to understand the specific costs involved. 

Can you still drive if power steering goes out?

Yes, you can typically drive a vehicle if the power steering goes out, but it will require significantly more physical effort to steer, especially at low speeds or when parking. Driving without power steering is generally safe for short distances to a mechanic if you are careful, but it can be dangerous if you can’t steer quickly enough in an emergency. You should drive cautiously, using both hands on the wheel, and get the system repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the power steering pump and other components. 
What happens when power steering fails?

• Heavier Steering: The system provides hydraulic assistance, so without it, turning the wheel becomes much harder. 
• Increased Difficulty at Low Speeds: You’ll find it especially challenging to turn the wheel when the car is stopped or moving slowly. 
• Potential for Damage: Driving without fluid can cause the pump to overheat and fail, and the belt that powers the pump can snap. 
• Danger in Emergencies: It can be difficult to react quickly enough during an emergency, making it more likely to cause an accident. 

What to do if your power steering fails:

1. Park Safely: Pull over to a safe location on the side of the road as soon as possible. 
2. Assess the Steering: Turn the wheel to see how much effort it takes. 
3. Check Fluid (if applicable): For hydraulic systems, check if the power steering fluid is low and add the correct type if needed. 
4. Drive Cautiously: If it’s manageable, drive slowly and carefully to the nearest mechanic. 
5. Use Both Hands: Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands to maintain control. 
6. Avoid Sharp Turns: Be prepared for the increased effort needed for sharp or sudden turns. 
7. Call a Tow Truck: If you feel you cannot accurately steer the vehicle, it’s safer to call for a tow truck. 

Get it fixed: 

• Repair ASAP: Get your vehicle to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the system.
• Consult a Professional: A mechanic can diagnose the issue and provide an accurate estimate for repairs.

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.