A stiff steering wheel and a lit warning light are unwelcome problems of a power steering fluid leak.
But how much does it cost to stop the leakage?
Let’s discuss the power steering fluid leak repair cost in depth. We’ll also go over the potential parts you may have to replace to fix the issue and why you shouldn’t delay the repair.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Power Steering Fluid Leak Repair Cost?
- Is It Worth Repairing the Power Steering Fluid Leak?
- Signs You Need a Power Steering Fluid Leak Repair
- How Long Do Power Steering System Parts Last?
- What Are the Causes of a Power Steering Fluid Leak?
- Is It Hard to Fix a Power Steering Leak?
- How to Prevent a Power Steering Fluid Leak
How Much Does a Power Steering Fluid Leak Repair Cost?
Here are your estimated expenses for fixing the steering fluid leak:
A. Range
You’ll likely spend between $150 and $670 to repair the power steering fluid leak. This cost includes labor charges of $140 to $170 and the price of replacement parts.
Let’s look at the cost of some common parts you’ll have to replace to stop the leakage:
- New pressure valve: Approximately $10
- New O-rings or gaskets: $5 to $20
- New power steering input shaft seal: Approximately $50
- New power steering pump: $200 to $500
- New power steering hose: $460 to $470
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Some other aspects that can alter your final bill include:
- Vehicle make and model: The cost of purchasing replacement parts like hoses and seal kits can vary based on your vehicle’s make and requirements. For example, parts for luxury or high-performance vehicles like the BMW M5 will cost more than parts for a Honda Civic.
- Power steering system type: Power steering systems, such as Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS) and Electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS), require fluid to function. However, with an EHPS system, labor costs are typically higher, as the mechanic will have to inspect additional components like electrical sensors.
- Fluid type: Power steering fluid typically comes in synthetic and conventional variants. However, some cars, like the Toyota Corolla, may use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in their steering systems. Out of these, automatic transmission fluid is pricier.
- Extra repairs: If your car has a failing power steering pump, it can damage the serpentine belt (drive belt). Replacing the belt will cost an additional $90 to $250.
Note: Power steering components like the pump and hoses are generally covered in bumper-to-bumper warranties. So, if you’ve purchased one, it would be best to check what it covers before you opt for a power steering repair.
Is It Worth Repairing the Power Steering Fluid Leak?
Certainly!
Here’s why:
Power steering fluid creates a hydraulic link between the steering wheel and front wheels, making it easy to turn your car. It also lubricates the moving parts of the steering system, helping reduce friction and improve overall performance.
Without sufficient fluid, the system parts can’t help you steer or control the car’s movement as you want it. If the power steering reservoir runs completely dry, the system will start malfunctioning, causing you to lose control of the vehicle and risk an accident.
So, if you notice a power steering problem, don’t delay its repair.
Signs You Need a Power Steering Fluid Leak Repair
These are some issues you’ll notice if you have a power steering fluid leak:
- A puddle of red or green fluid under the car
- A lit power steering light on the dashboard
- Reduced steering power
- Squealing, grinding, whining noise from the engine while turning the steering wheel
- Stiff steering wheel
- A vibrating steering wheel
- Low power steering fluid level in the reservoir during visual inspection
How Long Do Power Steering System Parts Last?
Power steering components like the pump, hoses, and pressure valve can last the vehicle’s lifetime or up to 100,000 miles. On the other hand, power steering fluid might only last for about 50,000 to 75,000 miles.
Your steering system health can also deteriorate faster if you:
- Install low-quality replacement parts or hoses
- Use poor-quality power steering fluid in the system
- Drive frequently in extreme temperatures
What Are the Causes of a Power Steering Fluid Leak?
Any accidents or impacts during your daily commute can cause the steering system to develop a fluid leak.
Besides these, some other causes are:
- Worn power steering pump seal
- A cracked power steering hose
- Loose or broken steering system clamps
- Deteriorated power steering rack parts like the input shaft end and its seals
- A damaged, corroded, or leaking pump
- Overfilled power steering fluid reservoir
Is It Hard to Fix a Power Steering Leak?
Yes. Fixing the leak can be demanding for a beginner with limited knowledge of car parts. But if you’re still curious what the process would include, then these are some steps you’ll have to perform:
- Determine the cause of the leak.
- Inspect power steering components like the pump, reservoir, hoses, clamps, and seals.
- Use tools like the torque wrench and screwdriver to remove the bearings.
- Tighten the clamps, seals, and bearings as per the manufacturer’s specifications.
The last step is important because the leaks may continue if you accidentally under-tighten the bearings.
Since this repair isn’t easy, it would be best to let a professional mechanic handle it.
How to Prevent a Power Steering Fluid Leak
Follow these tips to avoid a power steering system leak:
- Check the serpentine belt every 3 to 6 months for tears or cracks.
- Avoid turning the steering wheel completely from left to right to reduce pressure on the steering components.
- Inspect the O-rings and seals along with the steering system once a year or every 50,000 miles.
- Use the correct power steering fluid recommended by your owner’s manual.
Steer Clear of Fluid Leaks with AutoNation Mobile Service
A power steering fluid leak makes it difficult to steer your car as intended. Sadly, no spell will automatically resolve this issue, so you’ll have to visit the experts.
Unable to drive to the garage due to the stiff steering wheel?
AutoNation Mobile Service technicians can inspect your car’s steering system and fix the leak right from your driveway.
We’re a mobile auto repair solution that offers after-hours customer support and upfront pricing. All our services, including pump replacement and complete power steering repair, come with a 12-month | 12,000-mile warranty.
Contact us to book your appointment today.