What Power Steering Service Costs and When You Need It

Power steering has evolved significantly over the past two decades. Older hydraulic power steering systems use fluid under pressure to assist steering and require periodic maintenance. Modern electric power steering uses an electric motor instead of hydraulic pressure and requires minimal maintenance. Knowing which system your vehicle uses determines your maintenance responsibilities.

Hydraulic Power Steering

Hydraulic power steering uses a belt-driven pump to pressurize power steering fluid, which provides the force that reduces steering effort. This system requires periodic fluid checks and replacement, and the pump, hoses, and rack are wear items that eventually need service or replacement. The power steering fluid level should be checked during regular maintenance. Fluid that has darkened significantly or has a burnt smell has oxidized and should be replaced. A power steering flush costs $80 to $150 at an independent shop.

Electric Power Steering

Electric power steering systems, now standard on most new vehicles, use an electric motor mounted on the steering column or rack to provide assistance. There is no fluid to maintain, no pump to wear out, and no hoses to develop leaks. EPS systems are more reliable in most failure modes, though they can develop electronic control problems or motor failures that are more expensive to diagnose and repair than hydraulic system failures.

Hydraulic Rack and Pinion Replacement

The steering rack, which converts steering wheel rotation to lateral movement of the wheels, is the most expensive steering system component. Hydraulic rack replacement costs $600 to $1,500 at an independent shop. Symptoms of rack failure include clunking during steering, uneven return to center, and fluid leaking from the rack boots. Catching a failing rack early, before it develops into complete failure, reduces the chance of being stranded and allows planned repair rather than emergency service.

Power Steering Pump

Power steering pump failure typically announces itself with a whining noise that increases with steering input. Pump replacement costs $300 to $600 at an independent shop. If the pump has been running with low or degraded fluid, inspect the rack for damage before assuming pump replacement alone will resolve the problem.