A power steering flush involves cleaning and replacing old, dirty fluid, keeping your car’s power steering system in top condition.
But how can you tell it’s time for a power steering flush?
And how much does the service cost?
Read on as we explore the costs of power steering system flushes and some warning signs that you need one. We’ll also share some maintenance tips that can save you from major headaches (and costs) down the road.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Power Steering Flush Cost?
- Is It Worth Flushing the Power Steering System?
- Signs You Need a Power Steering Flush
- How Often Should You Get a Power Steering Fluid Flush?
- Can You Perform the Power Steering Flush Yourself?
- How to Maintain Your Power Steering System
How Much Does a Power Steering Flush Cost?
Here’s what you can expect to pay for draining old power steering fluid from your car:
A. Range
The average cost of a power steering flush is between $60 and $200. The range covers:
- New power steering fluid: $10 to $30
- Labor costs: $50 to $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Additional aspects that may impact your total fees include:
- Fluid type and brand: Power steering fluid is usually available in synthetic and conventional variants. However, some vehicles (like the Toyota Corolla) may also use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in their steering system. Of these, purchasing automatic transmission fluid will cost you more.
When purchasing the fluid, you’ll also have to factor in the fluid’s brand. Fluids from popular brands are pricier than local ones. - Car make and model: Depending on your car’s specifications, you’ll need a power steering fluid designed for it. For example, luxury high-performance cars like the Audi A5 require a Pentosin CHF-11S power steering fluid for their system.
- Additional repairs: A contaminated power steering system can eventually wear out or damage other parts, like the power steering pump. If that happens, replacing the pump will cost an additional $500 to $800.
Is It Worth Flushing the Power Steering System?
Definitely!
A healthy power steering system makes it easy for you to steer and control your car.
However, dirt and debris can compromise the effectiveness of the steering rack and pinion seals over time. Once the seals are compromised, contaminants can enter the system and affect the fluid’s integrity. As this dirty fluid circulates, power steering components like the pump can start to wear out.
If the steering system malfunctions, you could lose control of the car, endangering yourself and other drivers and increasing the risk of an accident.
Signs You Need a Power Steering Flush
Here are some issues you’ll notice when your power steering system needs a flush:
- A puddle of dirty or dark-colored fluid under the car (clean steering fluid is usually red, pink, or colorless)
- The steering system makes squeaking and grinding noises even after a fluid top-up
- Gradual steering stiffness due to old power steering fluid
- Burning smell due to an overheated power steering pump
- Metal shavings or debris in the power steering fluid reservoir
How Often Should You Get a Power Steering Fluid Flush?
If your car has a hydraulic or electro-hydraulic power steering system (HPS or EHPS), you’ll need to get it flushed every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
But if your car has electric power steering (EPS), you don’t have to worry about getting it flushed.
Why?
The EPS system works with an electric motor and power steering control unit to turn your vehicle, so it doesn’t require any fluid. Since there’s no fluid, there’s no risk of contamination.
Can You Perform the Power Steering Flush Yourself?
No, you shouldn’t!
A power steering flush is an exhaustive process that requires experience working with engine components under the car. That’s why it’s best to let an auto repair mechanic drain the old liquid and add clean power steering fluid to the system.
But if you’re still curious, here’s how a mechanic will perform the flush:
- Raise the front end of your car using jack stands.
- Remove the catch tray under the steering system.
- Place a pan underneath the car and disconnect the low-pressure hose to drain old, dirty fluid.
- Unscrew the power steering fluid reservoir cap and fill it halfway with new fluid to release the air trapped inside the system.
- Start the car and rotate the steering wheel to circulate the new fluid and push out the old liquid.
- Stop draining once the liquid starts looking clear, indicating the old fluid has been flushed out.
- Reconnect the low-pressure hose and fill the reservoir with clean power steering fluid up to the recommended level.
- Turn the steering wheel again to circulate the fluid for about five minutes, and turn off the car.
- Check the fluid level and refill the reservoir if needed, then close its cap.
How to Maintain Your Power Steering System
To prevent your power steering system from failing, you should:
- Monitor the power steering fluid level once a month.
- Schedule power steering service as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.
- Replace the power steering filter once a year.
- Get power steering components like the pump inspected every 50,000 miles.
- Steer gently to avoid putting excess pressure on the steering system.
- Inspect the rack steer boots (rubber covers that seal the end of the steering rack) for tears or cracks during routine maintenance service.
Say Goodbye to Power Steering Woes with AutoNation Mobile Service
A functional power steering system gives you control over your car. However, dirt and grime can eventually enter the system and contaminate the fluid. Once it becomes dirty and discolored, getting a power steering flush is your only option.
But if a stiff steering wheel stops you from driving to the garage, mechanics from AutoNation Mobile Service can perform the flush service right from your driveway.
We’re a mobile auto repair solution that offers simple online bookings and upfront pricing. All repairs come with a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty.
Book an appointment to restore your power steering system to its former glory.