How long do power steering pumps last?
David Mccullough
Updated on February 24, 2026
There is no real lifespan for these pumps and in theory, yours could last the life of the car with the right maintenance. With that being said, they generally don't last longer than 100,000 miles and pump failures at lower mileage aren't uncommon.
How often should you replace a power steering pump?
How often does a power steering pump need to be replaced? Most vehicle's power steering system will last for 100,000 to 150,000 miles before a pump replacement is warranted.What are the symptoms of a failing power steering pump?
What are the Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Pump?
- Whining Noise When You're Turning the Wheel. ...
- Stiff or Slow Responding Steering Wheel. ...
- Squealing Noise Upon Starting Your Vehicle. ...
- Red-Brown Puddle Underneath Your Car.
How much does it cost to replace power steering pump?
Power Steering Pump Repair CostThe average cost to repair a power steering pump is somewhere between $200 and $350. To replace the power steering pump with a new part, it will cost between $400 and $800 (depending on car model and what shop you take it to).
How long does it take to replace power steering pump?
It takes about 4 hours to replace a power steering pump. Depending on where you live, a shop can charge you between $50 and $125 per hour for labor. Ultimately, having a shop replace the power steering pump for you will likely cost between $200 and $500 in labor alone.How to Replace a Power Steering Pump
How do I know if I need a new power steering pump?
The symptoms of a bad steering pump include:
- Your Car Makes a Whining Noise Any Time You Turn the Wheel. ...
- Your Car's Steering Wheel Is Slow to Respond. ...
- Your Car's Steering Wheel Is Stiff. ...
- Your Car Makes Squealing Noises When You Turn the Key in the Ignition. ...
- Your Car Makes Groaning Noises.
Can you drive with a broken power steering pump?
If the power steering pump goes out completely, it is not advisable that you operate the vehicle beyond dropping it off at the mechanic. This is because newer vehicles are designed to only work properly with a power steering pump.How much is labor for a power steering pump?
The job can be costly: between $100-$200 for a new power steering pump if you DIY and around $500 to get it done by a mechanic.Can I replace my own power steering pump?
To swap out your power steering pump, you should need only basic hand tools. However, some special flare-nut wrenches and a special tool to safely remove the pulley from the pulley shaft will make the job easier.How long will a whining power steering pump last?
A. There's no set expiration date for your power steering pump. That said, you should count on having to replace the pump after 100,000 miles or so. Some last longer and some die much more quickly.What causes power steering to go out?
Because your engine is connected to your power steering pump, any stretching, fraying, corrosion or breakage can cause the immediate failure of your system. We recommend having your power steering belt checked with every maintenance service, and replacing it if it shows any signs of wear, aging, or damage.Do new power steering pumps need to break in?
Re: After you install a new power steering pump, is there any break in period? No, just be sure that the system is topped off with the proper fluid for the car. This can take a little time - after you install the pump top off the reservoir and turn the wheel lock to lock several times.What makes a power steering pump whine?
Trapped Air In The Power Steering Fluid Or PumpIt's possible the whining noise is simply coming from trapped air bubbles in your power steering fluid. If you suspect this is the case, you can confirm it by removing the cap from the power steering fluid reservoir and checking if any bubbles or froth has formed in it.