How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump on an Acura MDX?
The cost to replace a power steering pump on an Acura MDX can range from $400 to $800, depending on various factors. This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the typical costs associated with this repair.
Factors Affecting the Cost
The total cost to replace a power steering pump on an Acura MDX can vary based on the following factors:
- Part Cost: The power steering pump itself typically costs between $200 and $400, depending on the brand and whether it's an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or aftermarket part.
- Labor Cost: The labor cost to replace the power steering pump can range from $200 to $400, depending on the mechanic's hourly rate and the complexity of the job.
- Additional Repairs: In some cases, additional repairs may be necessary, such as replacing the power steering fluid or addressing any underlying issues that caused the pump failure. These additional costs can add $50 to $100 or more to the total.
It's important to note that the cost can also vary depending on the specific model year and trim level of the Acura MDX, as well as the location and reputation of the repair shop.
Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Pump
Before replacing the power steering pump, it's important to diagnose the issue correctly. Some common symptoms of a failing power steering pump on an Acura MDX include:
- Difficulty Steering: The steering wheel may feel heavy or require more effort to turn, especially at low speeds or when the vehicle is stopped.
- Whining or Grinding Noises: The power steering pump may produce unusual noises, such as whining, grinding, or whirring sounds, especially when the steering wheel is turned.
- Fluid Leaks: Power steering fluid may be leaking from the pump or the surrounding hoses and connections.
- Warning Lights: The power steering warning light on the dashboard may illuminate, indicating an issue with the power steering system.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's recommended to have your Acura MDX inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine the root cause and the appropriate repair solution.
Conclusion
Replacing a power steering pump on an Acura MDX can be a significant expense, but it's a necessary repair to maintain the vehicle's handling and safety. By understanding the factors that can affect the cost and being aware of the symptoms of a failing pump, you can better prepare for this repair and make an informed decision about the best course of action for your vehicle.
What is the most common problem with Acura MDX?
Common Problems:
- Transmission failure: Early MDX models had issues with automatic transmission failure, leading to costly replacements.
- Steering rack issues: Some vehicles experienced steering rack and pump failure, which led to a loss of power steering.
How much does it cost to replace the power steering pump on a Acura MDX?
The total cost for an Acura MDX power steering pump replacement typically ranges from $500 to $900, but this can vary based on parts and labor. Parts can range from around $50 for a used pump to over $300 for a new one, and labor can add several hundred dollars depending on the shop's hourly rate and the complexity of the job.
Cost breakdown
You can watch this video to learn about the symptoms of a bad power steering pump: 34sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Oct 23, 2023
- Parts:
- Used: Approximately $50 for a used pump from a junkyard.
- Remanufactured/Aftermarket: Roughly $50 to $300 or more. Examples include a new pump for around $60-$80 from places like Walmart or $300+ from AutoZone, depending on the brand.
- Genuine Acura: Potentially over $200 for a new OEM pump.
- Other components: You may also need to budget for additional parts like O-rings, hoses, and power steering fluid, which can add $20-$50 to the total cost.
- Labor:
- Labor costs are often estimated based on a book time of around one hour for the pump replacement.
- The final labor cost depends on the shop's hourly rate, which can be from $125 to $200 or more.
- Some services, like the one on YourMechanic, may provide a bundled estimate that includes both parts and labor.
- Important considerations:
- It is crucial to replace the fluid and thoroughly flush the system after replacing the pump to prevent damage to the new pump, which can be a significant added cost if not done correctly.
- Driving with a bad power steering pump can lead to more serious issues and make steering difficult, so it is best to address the problem as soon as possible.
This video demonstrates how to replace the power steering pump in an Acura MDX: 54sCar Repairs Made SimpleYouTube · Feb 14, 2025
Is it worth replacing a power steering pump?
A power steering pump might last the entire service life of a vehicle and never need replacing. Vehicle manufactures often recommend changing the power steering fluid on a preventive maintenance schedule.
How much would a mechanic charge to replace a power steering pump?
between $500 and $900
On average, replacing your power steering pump can cost between $500 and $900, but it's essential to avoid more serious damage to the power steering system.
