Power Steering Pump Replacement Cost in the UK?

A power steering pump is a steering component that helps push fluid from the reservoir into the steering rack. This pressurised fluid helps make it easier to turn the steering wheel. The power steering pump is driven by an electric motor or belt that is connected to the engine.

Without a functioning power steering pump, steering the car would be extremely difficult and potentially dangerous.

How much does it cost to replace a power steering pump?

The average cost of replacing a power steering pump is £300, with prices ranging from £180 and £500. This price usually also includes PAS (Power Assisted Steering) fluid top-up. If it’s just the power steering hose that needs to be repaired then it can cost around £100-£150 to do the job. The exact price of the power steering pump replacement depends largely on your car and the parts recommended by the manufacturer.

Your location can also be a key factor in determining the price of a power steering repair. For example, average hourly labour rates and demand in cities like London is around £50-£100 while in towns with lower demand, the labour rates can range from £35-£50. The type of mechanic, for example, a mobile mechanic vs a dealership garage technician can also affect the total cost of a power steering repair.

Average cost of a power steering pump replacement by location

To avoid having car owners overpaying and get a fair price for a power steering pump replacement, we use real-time data of thousands of car makes and model data, local labour prices for power steering pump repairs and replacements and part prices to provide an instant fair quote. Simply enter your vehicle registration number and postcode to get an instant price for a power steering pump replacement for your car.

Average cost of a power steering pump replacement by manufacturer

Signs your power steering pump needs to be replaced

• Difficulty turning the steering wheel
• Power steering fluid leak
• Whining sound when turning the steering wheel
• Squealing noise when starting the car
• “Stiff” steering wheel
• Discoloured power steering fluid
  
  

There's a power steering fluid leak

If you notice a reddish-brown puddle of fluid then it could be due to a steering fluid leak. A leak will also mean you find yourself topping up the PAS fluid more often.

You hear a whining noise when you turn the steering wheel

A groaning or whining noise when you turn the steering wheel can indicate an issue with the steering pump. When this happens it can indicate improper lubrication and further damage your steering system if not fixed as soon as possible.

The steering wheel is hard to turn

A worn power steering pump or pressure relief valve may cause a delay in the system's response to your direction changes. You’ll notice that it’s difficult to turn the steering or it is not as responsive as it used to be.

Frequently asked questions about power steering pump cost

Can I drive my car if the power steering pump goes out?

You may be able to drive a car with a power steering pump failure, but it would not be advisable as it is a safety hazard. Steering could become very difficult and you would not have power assist to help with parking or tight turns which can be extremely dangerous.

Is fixing power steering expensive?

Depending on the severity, fixing the power steering pump can be slightly expensive. Power steering systems are quite complex, and diagnosing the problem can be difficult and time-consuming. If it’s a simpler issue such as a problem with the power steering hose then it’s usually much cheaper and easier for the mechanic to fix.

How long does it take a mechanic to replace a power steering pump?

It usually takes 2-3 hours for a certified mechanic to replace a power steering pump.

​​Can you still steer if your power steering pump is broken?

You can still steer if your power steering pump is broken, but it will be significantly harder to do so and is extremely risky and dangerous due to the lack of control.

Can I carry out a power steering pump replacement myself?

Replacing a power steering pump requires expert skills and knowledge in auto repair. It is a fairly complex repair for a technician and entails disconnecting various components, removing the old pump, installing the new pump, and then reconnecting everything properly. Along with this, the power steering fluid is drained which needs to be disposed off properly so as to not cause environmental harm.
Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a power steering repair is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

What else could be the problem if my power steering pump isn’t broken?

If you're experiencing power steering issues but your power steering pump is not broken, there could be other components within the system malfunctioning:

• Power steering fluid - low or dirty power steering fluid can lead to poor power steering performance.
• Tyres - misaligned, incorrectly inflated or out of balance tyres can cause issues with handling of the vehicle
• Brakes - worn out brake discs lead to vibrations through the steering wheel

What happens during a power steering pump replacement?

Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.

The mechanic will:

• Check the operation of the power steering pump if it needs to be replaced
• Undo the power steering pipe unions attached to the pump
• Drain the power steering fluid from the pump
• Remove the power steering pump and replace it with the new unit *Put everything back together
• Refill the PAS fluid and bleed the system
• Start the car and test the steering