Driving With a Broken Power Steering Pump: What Really Happens and Why It’s Risky

You can still move the car, but steering effort will be heavy—especially at low speeds—and you risk sudden loss of assist, pump seizure, serpentine-belt failure, engine overheating, loss of charging, and (in some trucks) hard-brake conditions. It’s unsafe and can get expensive fast; if the pump is truly failed or leaking badly, the prudent choice is to tow the vehicle rather than drive it.

What the Power Steering Pump Does—and What “Broken” Means

On vehicles with hydraulic power steering, the pump pressurizes fluid to assist steering. A “broken” pump can mean anything from worn bearings and internal failure to a seized pulley or a major fluid leak. Many modern cars use electric power steering (EPS) and have no pump; this guidance applies to hydraulic systems. Some trucks and diesel vehicles use a hydroboost brake system powered by the steering pump, making pump failure a braking concern as well.

What You’ll Experience Behind the Wheel

When a power steering pump stops working or loses fluid, the immediate effect is drastically increased steering effort at low speeds. Additional symptoms often signal escalating risk and potential secondary damage.

• Very heavy steering in parking lots and at low speeds; still drivable at higher speeds but with reduced precision.
• Whining, groaning, or grinding noises that rise with engine RPM, then suddenly stop if the pump seizes (often followed by a burning smell or belt smoke).
• Steering “notchiness,” delayed response, or intermittent assist as fluid aerates or pressure fluctuates.
• Warning lights if the serpentine belt slips or breaks (battery/charging light); a rising temperature gauge if the water pump stops turning.
• For hydroboost systems: a much harder brake pedal and longer stopping distances once stored assist is depleted.

These symptoms are not just inconvenient—they’re cues that safety margins are shrinking and that continuing to drive may multiply repair costs.

Key Safety Risks and Secondary Damage

Driving with a failed or failing pump can trigger a cascade of mechanical problems. The following risks are the most consequential for safety and cost.

• Loss of steering assist: Maneuvering in tight spaces becomes extremely difficult, increasing crash risk at low speeds.
• Pump seizure and belt failure: A seized pump can shred or throw the serpentine belt, instantly disabling the alternator, water pump (on many engines), and A/C, risking rapid engine overheating and battery drain.
• Hard-brake condition in hydroboost vehicles: After one or two stored-assisted applications, the brake pedal may become very firm, requiring far more leg force to stop.
• Fire and smoke hazard: Pressurized fluid leaks can spray onto hot exhaust components, creating smoke and, in rare cases, fire.
• System contamination: A failing pump can shed metal into the fluid, damaging the steering rack/gear and hoses, turning a simple pump swap into a full system overhaul.

Because these failures can escalate suddenly, especially at low speeds or during parking, towing is often the safest option once a major leak or seizure is suspected.

How to Recognize a Failing Pump Early

Catching the problem early can prevent secondary damage. Watch for these common warning signs before total failure.

• Whine or moan that increases with steering input or engine speed.
• Fluid level dropping in the reservoir, damp hoses, or oily residue near the pump or steering rack.
• Foamy or discolored fluid (aeration or contamination).
• Steering wheel slow to return to center or feels jerky/notchy.
• Burning-oil smell after tight turns or parking maneuvers.

Addressing these symptoms promptly can limit damage to the pump and prevent contamination of the rest of the steering system.

If You Must Drive a Short Distance

When towing isn’t immediately available and you need to move the vehicle a short distance, take these precautions to minimize risk. This assumes the pump hasn’t seized and the belt is intact.

1. Check the reservoir and add the correct fluid (or approved ATF) to the minimum mark if it’s low; do not overfill.
2. Avoid highways and heavy traffic; plan a route with low speeds and minimal tight turns or parking.
3. Use two hands on the wheel and leave extra following distance; if you have hydroboost brakes, be prepared for a very firm pedal.
4. Watch gauges and lights: stop immediately if the battery/charging light illuminates or the temperature climbs.
5. If the pump is noisy and the belt begins to smoke or squeal, pull over and shut down—have the car towed.

These steps can help you nurse the car safely to a nearby shop, but they do not eliminate the risk of sudden failure or added damage.

Repair Scope and Cost Expectations

Costs vary by vehicle and how long the system was driven in a failed state. Here’s what to expect in broad terms.

• Power steering pump replacement: roughly $250–$750 parts and labor for many vehicles; premium or difficult-access models can exceed $1,000.
• Fluid flush and filter/screen cleaning or replacement: $80–$200; essential if the pump failed internally.
• Hoses/lines: $100–$400 each if leaking or degraded.
• Steering rack/gear replacement (if contaminated or damaged): $700–$1,800+.
• Serpentine belt and related components (tensioner/idler) if damaged: $100–$350.

Approving a full flush and inspecting the rack and hoses during the pump replacement can prevent repeat failures and reduce long-term costs.

Prevention Tips

Routine checks and quick responses to early symptoms are the best defense against sudden failure and high repair bills.

• Inspect the fluid level and condition at each oil change; top up only with the specified fluid.
• Address any leaks promptly; small leaks often become major failures under pressure.
• Replace the serpentine belt at the recommended interval or at the first signs of cracking/glazing.
• Listen for new steering noises and feel for changes in steering effort or return-to-center behavior.
• If you have hydroboost brakes, treat any steering assist issue as a brake-assist issue as well.

These simple habits significantly reduce the chance of a roadside failure and keep repair costs manageable.

Summary

Driving with a broken power steering pump is possible but unsafe: steering becomes very heavy, and a seized pump can take out the serpentine belt, leading to loss of charging, rapid engine overheating, and—in hydroboost systems—hard brakes. Continued driving risks contaminating and destroying the steering rack and hoses. If the pump is failing or leaking badly, the safest and most economical choice is to stop and arrange a tow, then replace the pump and flush the system to protect the rest of the components.

Is it safe to drive with faulty power steering?

The risks are significant, from more difficult steering to causing lasting damage to the pump or other components. Continuing to drive in this condition could lead to a breakdown or even an accident, especially in situations where precise steering is necessary.

What happens when the power steering pump goes out while driving?

If a power steering pump fails while driving, the main immediate effect is that the steering will become very difficult, requiring significantly more physical force to turn the wheel, especially at lower speeds. Driving further without repair can lead to the pump seizing and damaging its drive belt, which can also affect other systems like the alternator and water pump. To respond, grip the wheel firmly with both hands, slow down, turn on your hazard lights, and safely pull over to call for assistance or a tow truck.
 
This video explains the causes and symptoms of a failing power steering pump: 55sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Oct 23, 2023
What you will experience:

• Heavy Steering: The steering wheel will feel much harder to turn because the hydraulic assistance from the pump is gone. 
• Difficulty with Turns: Maneuvering at low speeds, such as parking or turning a corner, will become very challenging. 

Potential further damage:

• Pump Overheating/Seizure: Opens in new tabIf the pump runs dry of fluid or with insufficient fluid, it can quickly overheat and seize, which can destroy the pump. 
• Belt Failure: Opens in new tabA seized pump can cause the serpentine belt that drives it to snap or come off. 
• Loss of Other Systems: Opens in new tabA broken serpentine belt can also shut down the water pump and alternator, which could cause the engine to overheat and the battery to not charge. 
• Steering Rack Damage: Opens in new tabMetal shavings from a damaged pump can enter the steering rack, potentially ruining it and leading to an expensive repair. 

This video shows what happens when the serpentine belt breaks: 59sAuto Fix DiaryYouTube · Feb 15, 2025
What to do immediately:

1. Stay Calm: Remember the car is still steerable, just much harder. 
2. Grip Firmly: Hold the steering wheel with both hands to maintain control. 
3. Slow Down: Reduce your speed gradually. 
4. Turn on Hazards: Alert other drivers that you are having a problem. 
5. Pull Over Safely: Find a safe place to stop, like a shoulder or parking lot. 
6. Call for Help: Contact a tow service to get the vehicle to a mechanic for inspection. 

How long can I drive with a bad power steering pump?

You cannot drive safely or for any significant duration with a bad power steering pump, as it can lead to a complete failure of the power steering system, potential damage to the steering rack and other components, and an increased risk of an accident due to the extremely heavy steering. At best, a failing pump should only be used for emergency, short-distance travel to a repair shop, and even then, there is a risk of being stranded. 
Why Driving is Dangerous

• Heavy, Difficult Steering: With power steering out, the steering becomes extremely heavy and difficult, especially at low speeds. 
• Increased Accident Risk: The difficulty in controlling the vehicle can make it challenging to navigate turns, increasing the likelihood of veering off the road or losing control, according to Reddit users. 
• System Damage: If the pump is failing due to internal damage or low fluid, the system can overheat. This can lead to a burning smell, damage to the steering rack, or even complete failure of the pump itself. 
• Risk of Being Stranded: The pump could fail suddenly, leaving you with no steering assistance and requiring a tow. 

What to Do Instead of Driving

• Do Not Drive: Do not attempt to drive the vehicle any longer than absolutely necessary, such as for an emergency. 
• Check Power Steering Fluid: Ensure there is enough fluid in the reservoir to avoid further damage, but do not rely on this as a long-term solution. 
• Seek Professional Help Immediately: Contact a qualified technician or tow truck service to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible. 
• Consider the Risk: Driving with a failed power steering pump is not safe, and the risk of being stranded or causing an accident is high. 

What happens if you don’t fix your power steering pump?

Delaying repairs for a faulty power steering pump can result in serious damage, including harm to the steering rack or total loss of steering assistance. It also increases wear on other components and can negatively impact your vehicle’s performance.