Can I drive with a bad power steering pump?
Not safely or reliably. A failing power steering pump usually means you should avoid driving long distances; you might be able to move a short distance at very low speeds with limited steering assist, but the risk of sudden hard steering or complete loss of control is real. Seek professional inspection as soon as possible.
How power steering works and why a bad pump matters
Power steering reduces the effort required to turn the wheels by circulating hydraulic fluid through a pump driven by the engine. When the pump fails, the steering may become heavy or unresponsive, especially at low speeds, and you may also notice leaks, noises, or belt issues that can compound the danger.
Hydraulic vs electric systems
Most older vehicles rely on a hydraulic pump to provide assist. Many newer models use electric power steering (EPAS), which uses a motor and sensors rather than a hydraulic pump. If your car uses EPAS, a “bad pump” issue may instead involve the motor, wiring, or control module, and symptoms can differ from hydraulic failures.
Driving safety implications and legal considerations
Loss of steering assist can dramatically increase the effort needed to steer, particularly at low speeds or during maneuvers. A sudden failure can lead to loss of control in traffic or during lane changes, which poses serious safety risks. In most places there isn’t a specific law that bans driving with a failing power steering system, but a vehicle deemed unsafe can be ordered off the road and insurance claims can be affected if the defect contributed to a crash.
Highway vs city driving
Highway driving with reduced or no steering assist is especially dangerous due to high speeds and heavier steering on long, uninterrupted turns. City driving with frequent turns and parking maneuvers becomes challenging, increasing the chance of a collision if the system fails suddenly.
What to do if your pump is failing
If you notice warning signs, take these steps to reduce risk and arrange service.
- Safely pull over and switch off the engine as soon as you can do so safely.
- Check the power steering fluid level if you can access the reservoir. If the level is low, add the recommended fluid type and look for signs of a leak, but do not drive long distances with a leak unrepaired.
- Inspect the drive belt for cracks, fraying, or looseness; a failed belt can cause power steering to stop working even if the pump itself is okay.
- Do not press your luck by driving far; arrange towing or roadside assistance to a repair facility.
- Have the system diagnosed by a qualified technician. If your vehicle uses EPAS, mention that the issue may relate to the motor or control electronics rather than a traditional hydraulic pump.
- If you must move the vehicle a very short distance to a shop, proceed slowly and with extreme caution, keeping speeds well under 20 mph (32 km/h).
These steps prioritize safety and prompt diagnosis, which is essential as a failing power steering system can worsen with time or temperature changes.
Costs and repair options
Repair costs vary widely depending on whether you have hydraulic power steering or EPAS, your vehicle model, and local labor rates. Below are typical ranges to give you a sense of the scale, but always obtain a written estimate from a shop.
- Hydraulic power steering pump replacement: Parts commonly around $100–$350; labor often $150–$500. Total ballpark: $300–$850, with some vehicles and dealer jobs higher.
- Related components that may be replaced at the same time: drive belt, hoses, and fluid flush or bleed; these can add $50–$300 depending on what's needed.
- Electric Power Steering (EPAS) repairs: Replacing a motor or control module can range from about $500 to $1,500 or more, with some more complex diagnostics or module programming increasing the price.
Prices vary by vehicle and region, and labor rates can significantly affect total cost. Always ask for a documented estimate and whether the price covers diagnosis, parts, and labor separately.
Preventing power steering pump failure
Proactive maintenance can extend the life of the steering system and help you avoid sudden failures.
- Check power steering fluid level and condition regularly, using the fluid type recommended by the manufacturer.
- Fix leaks promptly to prevent the pump from running dry and failing prematurely.
- Inspect the drive belt for wear and replace it as recommended to prevent belt-driven pump failure.
- Avoid running the steering system to the stop (full lock) when the engine is off, which can place strain on the pump and seals.
- Have periodic system flushes or bleeding performed by a qualified technician after repairs or fluid changes to remove air and contaminants.
Regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of unexpected pump failures and keeps steering responsive during normal driving conditions.
Summary
Driving with a bad power steering pump is not advisable. In hydraulic systems, it can make steering heavy or unmanageable and may fail suddenly, while EPAS-related issues involve motor or control faults rather than a traditional pump. If you notice symptoms such as heavy steering, whining noises, or fluid leaks, pull over safely and arrange professional service promptly. Timely diagnosis and repair protect your safety, your vehicle’s steering components, and your wallet in the long run.
How long can you drive with a leaking power steering pump?
You should not drive with a power steering leak, but in a pinch, you can drive short distances by frequently checking and topping off the fluid, but this is a temporary fix. Driving without fluid can quickly cause the power steering pump to fail, which is an expensive repair, and can make steering extremely difficult, especially at low speeds. It is best to have the leak professionally diagnosed and fixed as soon as possible.
Short-term driving
- Top off the fluid: Regularly check the power steering fluid level and add fluid to keep it from running dry.
- Drive cautiously: Avoid high speeds and long distances. Focus on getting to a mechanic, or home to make the repair yourself.
- Listen for a whine: A whining sound is a sign that the pump is struggling, and you should stop driving or drive extremely carefully.
Risks of driving with a leak
- Damage to the pump: Running the pump without enough fluid can cause it to overheat and fail, leading to a costly replacement.
- Damage to other parts: The leak can also damage other components of the steering system, such as the steering rack or the belt driving the pump.
- Steering failure: If the fluid level drops to zero, you will lose all steering assist, making the wheel very heavy and difficult to turn, particularly at low speeds.
- Fire hazard: Leaking fluid under the hood could potentially pose a fire risk.
How much would it cost to fix a power steering pump?
The average cost to replace a power steering pump is between $300 and $800, but it can range from $270 to over $1000, depending on your vehicle's make and model, labor rates, and whether you use new, used, or rebuilt parts. Labor costs typically run between $200 and $500 for the one to three hours needed for replacement.
Cost breakdown
This video explains the cost of replacing a power steering pump: 56scar PROblemsYouTube · May 5, 2023
- Parts: The price of the pump itself can vary significantly, from around $100 for a basic aftermarket part to much more for OEM or luxury vehicle parts. This can also include new power steering fluid, hoses, and potentially a pulley.
- Labor: Expect to pay between $150 and $400 for labor, depending on the mechanic's hourly rate and your vehicle's specific setup. The job typically takes one to three hours.
- Total:
- Low end: For a DIY job, the cost is limited to parts and fluids, potentially as low as $100-$200.
- Average: A professional replacement typically costs between $300 and $800, with the average being around $842–$941.
- High end: Costs can exceed $1000, particularly for luxury vehicles or if you choose a dealership for the service.
Factors that influence the cost
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury or foreign cars often have higher part costs.
- Part type: New pumps are more expensive than rebuilt or used pumps.
- Labor rates: Shop rates vary by location.
- Additional parts: Hoses, a pulley, and a new belt may also be needed and will add to the cost.
- Location of the job: Dealerships generally charge more than independent mechanics.
Is a car still drivable if the power steering goes out?
Power steering only amplifies your inputs to the steering wheel. It makes it easier for you to turn the steering wheel and change the direction the car is moving. Its failure doesn't make steering impossible, only more difficult, especially at lower speeds. So, you can drive a car with failed power steering.
What does your car do when the power steering pump goes out?
When a power steering pump fails, the most immediate and noticeable effect is a loss of power assist, making the steering wheel very hard to turn, especially at low speeds. You will also likely hear strange noises like whining or grinding, see leaks of red power steering fluid, and your dashboard may show a warning light. It is dangerous to drive with a failed pump, as it can make it difficult to control the vehicle.
This video explains the symptoms of a bad power steering pump: 59sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · May 21, 2024
What happens to the steering and car
- Hard to steer: The steering wheel will become significantly heavier and require much more physical effort to turn, making you feel like you are driving a manual steering vehicle.
- Loss of assistance: At low speeds, or when stationary, turning the wheel can be very difficult. At higher speeds, the steering may still be manageable but the lack of assist can still make it feel sluggish or unresponsive.
- Dangerous to drive: Driving with a failed power steering pump is unsafe because it can lead to a loss of control, especially in situations requiring quick steering adjustments.
What you might hear and see
- Noises: You may hear a loud whining, groaning, or grinding noise, particularly when you turn the steering wheel.
- Fluid leaks: A leaking pump will cause the power steering fluid, which is typically red, to leak and create red spots on the ground where you park.
- Contaminated fluid: The power steering fluid may turn a murky or greyish color, or you might see tiny metal flakes, which indicates the pump's internal components are disintegrating.
You can watch this video to learn how to check for leaks and other signs: 1mHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Oct 23, 2023
What you should do
- Avoid driving if possible: If the pump has completely failed, it is best to have the vehicle towed to a mechanic.
- Get it fixed: A mechanic can diagnose the problem and replace the pump or repair the leak to restore your steering.
