How much does it cost to completely replace power steering?
Power steering replacement costs vary widely, but you can expect roughly $300–$700 for a hydraulic pump swap and $1,000–$2,500+ for a full hydraulic rack-and-pinion replacement; electric power steering repairs typically run $600–$2,000 or more, depending on the car.
Understanding the question in detail requires looking at the type of power steering system a vehicle uses, which components are being replaced, and the labor rates in your area. Hydraulic systems rely on a pump, rack and pinion, hoses, and fluids, while electric systems depend on an electronic motor, control module, and possibly a steering column assembly. Costs also hinge on vehicle make/model, parts availability (new versus remanufactured), and whether software calibration or wheel alignment is needed after the work.
Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS) Replacement Costs
The costs below reflect the main parts and labor involved when rebuilding or replacing a hydraulic power steering system, including the rack and pinion and the pump. Prices vary by vehicle, region, and shop.
- Power steering pump: parts typically $100–$400; labor around $100–$300; total commonly $200–$700.
- Rack and pinion (steering gear): parts typically $400–$1,000; labor around $300–$800; total commonly $700–$1,800, though some models can be higher.
- Hoses, lines, and fittings: parts about $50–$200; labor $50–$150; total roughly $100–$350.
- Power steering fluid replacement/flush and ancillary items (reservoir, belts): $20–$120 for parts; minor diagnostic time may be included in labor.
Prices can rise if multiple components fail or if the vehicle requires additional work such as an alignment after replacement or addressing leaks in the steering rack mounting. Complex jobs on larger or premium vehicles tend to be toward the upper end of these ranges.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Replacement Costs
Vehicles with electric power steering rely on an electric motor and a control module rather than hydraulic pressure. Replacing or repairing EPS components involves different parts and potential programming needs.
- EPS motor/actuator replacement: parts typically $400–$1,500; labor $200–$600; total commonly $600–$2,100.
- Steering column assembly or control module replacement: parts $600–$2,000; labor $400–$900; total commonly $1,000–$2,900.
- Software calibration and relearning (may require dealership or specialist tools): $100–$300, sometimes bundled with the repair.
Because EPS systems are tied to vehicle electronics and may require programming or immobilizer reconfiguration, costs can be higher at dealerships or shops with specialized tooling. The year, make, and model of the car significantly influence the final price.
Additional considerations and tips
When budgeting for a power steering replacement, consider factors that commonly affect total cost: regional labor rates, whether you use OEM vs. aftermarket parts, availability of remanufactured components, warranty coverage, and any required ancillary services such as wheel alignment, cooling checks for hydraulic systems, and belt replacement.
Some vehicles use integrated systems that involve other steering or suspension components; in such cases, repairs may be more extensive, raising both parts and labor costs. Always request a detailed, itemized estimate and consider getting a second opinion if a quote seems unusually high.
Summary
In general, hydraulic pump-only replacements tend to run a few hundred dollars, while full hydraulic rack-and-pinion replacements typically cost $1,000–$2,500 or more. Electric power steering work can range from roughly $600 to $2,000+, depending on whether the motor, column, or control module is involved and whether programming is required. The exact total depends on your vehicle’s system type, parts availability, labor rates, and any necessary calibration or alignment after replacement.
If you’re facing a failing power steering component, have a trusted shop diagnose the system to determine whether a single-component fix is sufficient or if a full system replacement is warranted, and insist on a written, itemized estimate before authorizing work.
