How Much Are Power Steering Pumps?

There’s no worse feeling than driving along when suddenly you notice that your steering feels heavy, or you hear a strange whining noise. This is followed by a flashing warning light on the dash - and you feel your heart sink to your stomach as you realize something is wrong.

These are signs that your power steering pump could be failing. It's a daunting situation, especially if you're unfamiliar with the potential costs. How much are power steering pumps? And, is there any way to save on the power steering pump replacement cost?

There's no need to panic or jump to worst-case scenarios. In this comprehensive guide, we're going to tackle these two questions and many others you may have about a bad power steering pump. 

While a replacement power steering pump cost can be as little as $400, it can be well over $1,000. Where you fall on this spectrum depends on numerous factors - like your make/model, the replacement pump you end up buying, and how you get the job done (DIY vs hiring a mechanic). We’ll unpack these factors in-depth to help you save as much money as possible without compromising on safety, reliability, and longevity.

By the end of this article, you'll not only have a good idea of the costs involved but also gain knowledge on how to make smart decisions during this process. While you’re feeling a lot of stress and uncertainty right now, we’re here to help put your mind at ease. 

So, buckle up as we navigate the ins and outs of the cost of power steering pump replacement. First, let’s get one thing clear: this is not a problem you can ignore and continue driving through.

Can I Drive My Car With a Bad Power Steering Pump?

In short, you can technically drive your car with a failing power steering pump, but it's not recommended. Not only is it dangerous, but it could also lead to more serious repairs down the line.

The power steering pump plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of your vehicle. Its main function is to facilitate the power steering system, making it easier for you to steer the vehicle. It does this by pushing hydraulic fluid into the steering gear, which assists in turning the steering wheel.

When the power steering pump starts to fail, steering your car becomes significantly more difficult. The steering wheel may feel heavy or unresponsive, particularly when you're driving at slow speeds or attempting to park. You might also notice a strange whining or groaning noise when you turn the wheel. These are signs that your power steering pump is on its last leg.

Driving with a faulty power steering pump is not only uncomfortable but also dangerous. The increased effort needed to turn the wheel can make you lose control of the vehicle, especially in situations where quick maneuvers are required. This poses a serious risk to both you and other road users.

Additionally, driving with a failing pump could lead to more extensive damage to your power steering system. If left unchecked, it can wear out the belts and hoses connected to the pump, leading to more expensive repairs down the line.

Therefore, while your car may still move with a bad power steering pump, it's strongly advised to address the problem as soon as possible to avoid risking your safety and incurring more costs in the future. As difficult as it may be, you are better off biting the bullet and replacing the part now. 

But how much are power steering pumps typically? As you may already realize, there is no one size fits all answer - so let’s take a look at the factors affecting the power steering pump replacement cost.

Factors Affecting the Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost

As we've mentioned, the cost to replace a power steering pump can range significantly. This cost fluctuation is influenced by a few specific factors. Let's unpack these to provide you with a clearer understanding of what you can expect to pay to get your power steering system back up and running.

The Quality Quandary: Why Premium Power Steering Pumps Cost More

The first factor is the quality of the power steering pump itself. It's tempting to opt for the least expensive option available when faced with a substantial repair bill. However, it's crucial to consider what you're getting for that lower cost.

Budget-friendly power steering pumps may come with a lower initial cost, but they're often made with cheaper materials and may not meet the same stringent quality and performance standards as more premium options. This could potentially lead to quicker wear and tear, resulting in another replacement sooner than you'd like.

On the other hand, premium power steering pumps, such as those available at Southwest Performance Parts, are constructed with higher-quality materials designed for longevity. They are rigorously tested for performance, ensuring they deliver the reliability you need. Moreover, they’ll enhance the performance of your car’s power steering system - unlocking a whole new level of responsiveness on the road.

While these pumps have a higher upfront cost, they often provide better value in the long run due to their durability and superior performance. You’ll end up paying less over the course of owning the car by investing in premium parts.

DIY Repair vs. Hiring a Professional Mechanic: Comparing Labor Costs

Another significant factor influencing the cost is labor. Professional mechanics possess the knowledge, expertise, and tools required to efficiently replace a power steering pump. However, this expertise comes at a price, and labor costs can account for a substantial portion of the overall replacement cost. 

Furthermore, the power steering pump replacement cost can be broken down further based on whether you get the job done at a dealership or an independent shop. Dealerships are more expensive, but you may get more peace of mind by going with a reputable mechanic. Independent shops can save you money, but you’ll have to take the time to vet the mechanic.

Opting for a DIY repair can save on labor costs, but it's not without its challenges. Replacing a power steering pump requires a certain level of mechanical know-how, and without the right tools and skills, you could end up causing more harm than good.

We’ll talk more about this later on. But now, let’s unpack the final consideration of power steering pump cost - the make, model, and motor of your specific vehicle.

Make, Model, and Motor: How Your Vehicle’s Specifications Impact Price

Finally, your vehicle’s specific make, model, and motor size can significantly affect the power steering pump replacement cost. Some vehicles have more complicated setups or require specific, more expensive parts, which can raise the cost. Similarly, if you have a luxury or exotic vehicle, the replacement parts can be significantly pricier.

To put this into context, consider the cost of power steering pump replacement for a Honda Civic compared to a BMW M6. While the German luxury is a lot more exciting to drive and look at, the complicated, expensive machinery is always going to be more expensive to replace than its simple Japanese counterpart.

Knowing these factors can help you understand why costs vary and what to expect when you're faced with a power steering pump replacement. But now, it’s time to provide an answer to the question that brought you here today - how much are power steering pumps going to cost to replace, really?

So, How Much Are Power Steering Pumps?

On average, the cost of a power steering pump ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the make and model of your vehicle and the quality of the pump. These costs are solely for the part itself, without factoring in the labor costs. That’s where things can start to get a bit expensive.

When you include labor, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to over $1,000 for a complete power steering pump replacement. The labor cost usually varies from $200 to $500, but it can be higher for luxury or high-end vehicles due to their complexity. Therefore, on average, a power steering pump replacement cost would be about $600 to $700.

Given these numbers, it's clear why most car owners dread hearing the words "power steering pump replacement." However, there are ways to potentially lessen this financial burden…

Tips for Saving on the Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost

While the replacement cost of a power steering pump can seem daunting, there are several strategies to reduce the cost without compromising on the quality of the replacement part or the safety of your vehicle. 

The best way to save some money is to find your replacement power steering pump at Southwest Performance Parts and install it yourself or go with a quality independent mechanic you trust. 

Shop at Southwest Performance Parts for a Premium Replacement That Won’t Break the Bank

One of the most significant ways to save on the cost of a power steering pump is by choosing a reliable supplier for the replacement part. Southwest Performance Parts offers high-quality, performance power steering pumps at competitive prices. 

Our pumps are designed to deliver optimal performance, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. How do we offer such high-quality pumps at prices so low? 

Simple - we manufacture them ourselves under the dependable A-team brand, and then, we sell them directly to you - the customer. This cuts out the expensive middlemen and all their unnecessary costs.

By purchasing from us, you avoid the markup that repair shops often add to parts, bringing the overall cost of replacement down. And, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing this isn’t a replacement you’ll have to worry about anytime soon. 

From there, you can get the replacement job done one of three ways - yourself, at an independent shop, or at a dealership. We’ll weigh the pros and cons of each below.

Independent Shop vs Dealership Repair vs DIY Replacement

Choosing how you actually get the new power steering pump installed is a consideration between cost savings and peace of mind. 

If you opt for an independent shop, you might enjoy a few significant advantages. These shops are often more cost-effective than dealerships, and they bring a level of local expertise and flexible scheduling that can make the process smoother.

However, keep in mind that the skill levels at these shops can vary. Also, while they might be knowledgeable about a wide range of vehicles, they may not specialize in your specific make or model. That’s why taking the time to vet any shop you consider working with is so important. 

On the other hand, dealership repairs offer the advantage of specialized knowledge and reputation. They have technicians trained specifically for certain makes and models. They also use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, which are designed to work perfectly with your vehicle. 

But this all comes at a cost - dealerships typically charge higher prices for parts and labor. The service, while professional, might also feel less personalized due to the volume of customers they handle. And, you may have to wait longer before you can get your car into the shop.

A third option is the DIY replacement. If you're mechanically inclined, this can be a rewarding and cost-effective solution. You save on labor costs and there's a sense of accomplishment in doing the job yourself. However, it's important to note that this route isn't for everyone. 

You'll need a good understanding of your car's mechanics and the right set of tools. Also, if something goes wrong, it could lead to more costly repairs down the line. Not to mention, depending on your skill level, it can be a time-consuming task.

In the end, the right approach for you will come down to your budget, experience working on cars, and the mechanics in your area. Ultimately, though, basing the repair around a Southwest Performance Parts power steering pump will save you dough as you get back on the road!

Wrapping Up Our Guide to the Cost of Power Steering Pump Replacement

We hope this guide on the cost of power steering pump replacement has shed light on the costs involved in this job and given you valuable insight on how to save during this process. 

Remember, power steering pump issues are not to be ignored. Acting promptly can save you from more significant and expensive repairs down the line. And with the help of Southwest Performance Parts, you can save on the power steering pump cost of replacement.

We also have performance ignition coils, high-performance transmission coolers, LS performance parts, performance fuel pumps, performance serpentine belt kits, and everything else you could need. 

So, head over to our online shop today and find the right replacement power steering pump at a price that works for you. If you’re looking for help finding it, we’re available and eager to assist you - don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s time to stop stressing over the power steering pump replacement cost!