How Much Does Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost?
Expect to pay $285 to $880 at an independent shop for a typical car, and up to $1,090 at a dealership. A whining noise when you turn the wheel is the classic sign of a failing power steering pump. Fixing it early avoids damaging the steering rack.
- Parts$120–$400
- Labor$165–$480
- Shop time1.5–3 hours
- DIY difficultyIntermediate (3/5)
Estimate your cost
Power Steering Pump Replacement cost by vehicle type
| Vehicle | Parts | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact / economy car | $120–$400 | $165–$480 | $285–$880 |
| Midsize sedan / crossover | $140–$460 | $180–$530 | $320–$990 |
| Truck / full-size SUV | $155–$520 | $190–$550 | $345–$1,070 |
| Luxury / European | $215–$720 | $215–$625 | $430–$1,345 |
Independent shop vs. dealer vs. chain
| Where | Hourly rate | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| Independent shop | $110–$160 | $320–$990 |
| Chain (Midas, Firestone…) | $120–$175 | $335–$1,040 |
| Dealership | $160–$230 | $400–$1,220 |
What does it do?
The pump pressurizes hydraulic fluid to assist steering, making the wheel easy to turn at low speeds.
Signs you need this repair
- Whining or groaning when turning
- Heavy or stiff steering
- Fluid leaks near the pump
- Foamy or low power steering fluid
Can you do it yourself?
Difficulty: Intermediate (3/5). Remove the belt, hoses and mounting bolts, then bleed the system carefully.
Doing it yourself saves the labor portion, roughly $165–$480, so you would pay only for parts ($120–$400).
Is it worth fixing?
Usually yes. Heavy steering is a safety issue, and a failing pump can damage the steering rack.
How to save money
- Check the fluid level and look for leaks first: a hose or low fluid can mimic pump failure.
- Use the exact fluid type specified for your vehicle.
- Confirm your car has hydraulic steering before paying for a pump.
Questions to ask your mechanic
- Is the noise from the pump, or from low fluid or a leaking hose?
- Is the replacement pump remanufactured, and what fluid will you use?
- Does the steering rack show any leaks?
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with a bad power steering pump?
Yes, but steering becomes heavy, which is dangerous in tight maneuvers.
How long does a power steering pump last?
Often around 100,000 miles.
Does my car have a power steering pump?
Many cars built after about 2012 use electric power steering with no pump or fluid.
Related repair costs
Sources and methodology
Estimates combine typical book labor times, current aftermarket and OEM parts prices, and 2026 US shop labor rates. See exactly how we calculate them.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics (pay and duties)
- Federal Trade Commission: Auto Repair Basics (estimates, warranties, your rights)
- NHTSA: Check for recalls before paying for a repair
- ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence): technician certification