What happens if I drive with a power steering leak

You risk a sudden loss of steering assist, much heavier steering at low speeds, damage to the pump and steering rack, possible serpentine-belt failure, and higher repair costs; if the leak is significant, it’s safest to stop and tow. In more detail, a power steering leak in hydraulic or electro-hydraulic systems lets the system run low on fluid, which reduces assist and can quickly overheat and destroy the pump. While some vehicles now use electric power steering with no fluid at all, any vehicle that still uses fluid can become difficult to control—especially during parking and sharp, low-speed maneuvers—turning a small leak into a major safety risk.

How a power steering leak affects your car

Traditional hydraulic power steering uses a belt- or electrically driven pump to pressurize fluid, helping you turn the wheels. If fluid leaks, pressure drops, the pump cavitates (whines), and steering assist fades. Running the pump low or dry can seize it, shred the serpentine belt, and even spray fluid onto hot components. The result ranges from a noisy, heavy wheel to sudden loss of assist when you need it most.

Signs you have a power steering leak

These are practical indicators that your system is losing fluid or pressure. Recognizing them early can prevent expensive or dangerous outcomes.

• Whining, groaning, or moaning noise when turning, especially at idle or full lock.
• Heavier steering effort, most noticeable at low speeds or during parking.
• Low fluid level in the reservoir, or foamy/aerated fluid.
• Oily puddles or wet streaks under the front of the car; fluid is often red (ATF-type) or amber/brown (dedicated PS fluid), slick and petroleum-smelling.
• Burning-oil smell or light smoke if fluid hits the exhaust or engine.
• Visible wetness on hoses, the pump, reservoir, cooler, or the steering rack/gear.
• Intermittent assist—fine at speed, heavy at idle—often points to low fluid or a failing pump.
• On some vehicles, belt chirp/squeal or a battery/charging light if a seized pump drags the serpentine belt.

If you notice any combination of these symptoms, assume the leak is active and plan to diagnose and repair before regular driving.

What can happen if you keep driving

Continuing to drive with a known leak can escalate both safety risks and repair bills. Here are the most common consequences.

• Loss of steering assist at low speeds, making the wheel extremely heavy and increasing crash risk in tight maneuvers.
• Pump damage from running low or dry; overheated, cavitating pumps can seize or fail suddenly.
• Serpentine belt damage or failure if a belt-driven pump locks up, potentially taking out the alternator and causing an overheat if the water pump is belt-driven.
• Rack-and-pinion or steering gear wear as lubrication and pressure drop, leading to costly replacement.
• Fluid spray onto hot components, creating smoke and a small but real fire risk.
• Escalating repair costs: a simple hose leak can become a pump-and-rack job if ignored.
• Environmental contamination from dripping petroleum fluid onto roads and driveways.

The bottom line: every mile driven with an active leak increases both safety exposure and the likelihood you’ll need multiple components replaced instead of one.

What to do right now

Quick, safe steps if you must move the car

If driving is unavoidable—for example, to get to a nearby shop—these steps can reduce risk. They are temporary measures, not a fix.

1. Check and top up the reservoir with the exact fluid your vehicle specifies (some use ATF, others dedicated PS fluid). Do not overfill.
2. Start the engine, turn the wheel slowly lock-to-lock once or twice to purge air, and recheck the level.
3. Plan a short, low-speed route that avoids tight parking, heavy traffic, and highway speeds.
4. Drive gently: keep speeds moderate, avoid holding the wheel at full lock, and leave extra following distance.
5. Monitor for noise, heavier steering, or smoke; if assist fades or the pump gets loud, pull over safely and stop.
6. Clean up any spilled fluid to avoid slipping hazards and environmental harm.

These steps may buy you a few safe miles to a repair facility, but they won’t prevent damage if the leak is significant or the system runs dry again.

When to stop and call a tow

In these situations, continuing to drive is unsafe or likely to cause rapid, expensive damage.

• The reservoir won’t hold fluid or drains rapidly after topping up.
• Steering effort becomes very heavy, intermittent, or unpredictable.
• The pump is screeching/whining loudly or the serpentine belt is smoking or fraying.
• You see fluid spraying onto hot engine/exhaust parts, or you smell burning oil.
• The power steering pump pulley wobbles, or the belt is off-track.
• You’re on highways, steep grades, or in dense traffic where a sudden loss of assist would be dangerous.

Towing is far cheaper than a seized pump, destroyed belt system, or a collision caused by unexpected loss of assist.

Common leak sources and repair costs

Power steering leaks usually come from wear-and-tear components. Costs vary by vehicle, labor rates, and parts availability, but these 2025 ballpark ranges can help you plan.

• Return or pressure hose/line: $80–$350 parts; $100–$300 labor. Clamps and O-rings often included.
• Reservoir (cracks or failing internal filter) and seals: $20–$150 parts; 0.5–1.5 hours labor.
• Pump replacement (belt-driven or electro-hydraulic): $200–$600 parts; $150–$400 labor (total $350–$1,000).
• Rack-and-pinion/steering gear seals or assembly: $500–$1,600 parts; $400–$900 labor (total $900–$2,500+), plus alignment ($100–$200).
• Cooler lines or small cooler: $50–$250 parts; $100–$300 labor.
• Serpentine belt (if contaminated/damaged): $25–$90 parts; $50–$160 labor.
• Fluid flush/bleed after repairs: $80–$180, often bundled with component replacement.

Avoid “stop-leak” additives except as an emergency limp-home measure; they can swell seals temporarily but often degrade rubber and clog fine passages, leading to more expensive repairs later.

Special cases: electric and electro-hydraulic steering

Fully electric power steering (EPS) has no hydraulic fluid. If you see a “leak” on an EPS-equipped car, it’s likely engine oil, coolant, or brake fluid—diagnose carefully. Some vehicles use electro-hydraulic systems (an electric motor drives a hydraulic pump); leaks and risks are similar to belt-driven systems, though a seized hydraulic pump won’t take out the serpentine belt. In all cases, loss of assist increases steering effort, especially at low speeds.

Environmental and legal considerations

Power steering fluid is petroleum-based and harmful to waterways and soil. Use absorbent material to contain spills, dispose of waste properly, and don’t wash fluid into storm drains. Some municipalities can fine for roadway contamination or improper disposal.

Summary

Driving with a power steering leak is risky: assist can fade suddenly, the pump and rack can fail, and a seized pump may damage the serpentine belt. If the leak is more than a slow seep, top up only to reach a nearby shop—or better, tow. Fixing a hose or seal early is far cheaper and safer than replacing a pump or rack after running the system low or dry.

What happens if you don’t fix a power steering leak?

• Steering Difficulty: A power steering leak can lead to a loss of fluid, making the steering wheel harder to turn.
• Further Damage: Continuing to drive with a leak can cause additional damage to the power steering pump and other components, leading to more expensive repairs.

Can I drive with a leaking power steering hose?

While your vehicle can still run with a power steering hose leak, you probably shouldn’t. Driving with this issue can make it harder for you to steer, which can lead to serious traffic accidents.

Can a power steering leak cause engine damage?

If a power steering fluid leak is left unaddressed, it can lead to serious consequences, including: Engine damage: A power steering fluid leak can cause the engine to overheat, leading to damage to the engine and other components.

How long can I drive with a power steering leak?

You cannot drive indefinitely with a power steering leak; instead, you should drive only as long as necessary to get the vehicle to a qualified mechanic, as continuous driving can lead to the power steering pump failing and cause unsafe, difficult-to-steer conditions, and potentially require more expensive repairs. While you can temporarily maintain steering by frequently checking and replenishing the fluid, this is a temporary measure. Ignoring a power steering leak can lead to a complete system failure, increased repair costs, and an increased risk of accidents. 
What to Do with a Power Steering Leak

1. Check the fluid level: Opens in new tabBefore starting your car, check the power steering fluid reservoir to see if the fluid is at the recommended level. 
2. Top off the fluid: Opens in new tabIf the fluid level is low, add the correct type of power steering fluid to bring it to the recommended level. 
3. Drive cautiously to a mechanic: Opens in new tabDrive the vehicle directly to a qualified mechanic for assessment and repair. 
4. Be aware of steering difficulties: Opens in new tabRecognize that the steering will become increasingly difficult as the fluid level drops. 
5. Avoid highways: Opens in new tabIf possible, avoid driving on highways where sudden steering inputs can be dangerous. 

Why a Power Steering Leak is Dangerous

• Increased steering effort: A lack of fluid makes the steering wheel hard to turn, which is especially dangerous in emergency situations. 
• Pump failure: The power steering pump can be damaged or fail completely if it runs without fluid, potentially leading to a costly replacement. 
• Further damage: A leaking component can cause damage to other parts of the steering system or the entire vehicle. 
• Safety hazard: Difficulty steering, especially at high speeds, can increase the risk of an accident.