Power Steering Pump Problems and Solutions

March 20, 2025

5 min read

March 20, 2025

5 min read

In the early days of the automobile, cars didn’t have or need power steering. Cars were light, tires were narrow, and steering wheels were huge. They gave you all the leverage you needed to get from A to B.

However, modern vehicles couldn’t function without power steering. They are too big and heavy, and they use big, heavy tires. Power steering has been all but standard on new vehicles since the 1990s.

A small sliver of those cars use electric power steering, with an electric motor providing assistance to the wheel. That percentage is growing in this age of hybrid and electric cars and trucks.

For the most part, though, vehicles with power steering use hydraulic power steering. This system uses a hydraulic power steering pump - opens in new window or tab. , typically driven off the engine, to provide the steering assistance your vehicle requires.

How Power Steering Pumps Work

A power steering pump, a ratchet wrench, and a box end wrench on a work table, in front of a car with its hood up. — Older vehicles use belt-driven power steering pumps. Electric power steering pumps became popular in the 1990s.

The power steering pump is responsible for supplying fluid to the hydraulic system. Typically, the power steering pump is driven by the engine with the help of a belt. These things happen when the driver turns the steering wheel:

The power steering pump pulls hydraulic fluid from a power steering fluid reservoir and pressurizes it.
The pressurized fluid then travels through hoses to the power steering gear or rack. There it creates the force needed for the driver to turn the wheel.
Within the steering gear, the pressurized fluid moves an assist mechanism or piston, thereby reducing how much effort is needed.
Once steering is completed, the fluid returns to the reservoir until it is needed again.

How long do power steering pumps last?

Power steering pumps typically last between 10 and 15 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles. However, frequently driving in rough conditions or heavy traffic can shorten the lifespan. Aggressive driving also puts more strain on the pump.

To ensure the power steering pump lasts as long as possible, it’s critical to follow all of the recommended fluid changes and to use the right type of fluid.

Bad hoses or fittings can also cause leaks, as can overfilling the reservoir. These can produce the same problems as a bad power steering pump.

Bad Power Steering Pump Symptoms

A driver looks concerned, as if she hears something amiss. — When a power steering pump goes bad, you hear odd noises coming from beneath the hood.

The most common sign of a bad power steering pump is noise. At first, the failing power steering pump may produce a groaning or growling sound. This can be caused by air leaks or low fluid levels. This sound also occurs when there is internal damage to the pump. A power steering pump whining sound is also common with low fluid levels or a failing pump. It often becomes more noticeable when turning the steering wheel.

Another common symptom is loss of assistance. The steering wheel becomes heavy. When the power steering pump fails, the fluid can’t reach the system. When the fluid can’t reach the system, it becomes difficult to maneuver the steering wheel.

Can you drive with a bad power steering pump?

Without the power steering pump, you have no power steering. It can be extremely difficult to steer the vehicle, putting you in danger of an accident. Change your power steering pump before it fails. Remain safe.

Changing a Power Steering Pump Doesn’t Take Special Skill

A mechanic wearing a black nitrile glove checks the tension on the power steering pump belt. — The drive belt must be removed before a power steering pump can be replaced.

Checking and replacing the power steering pump isn’t difficult. To test a power steering pump, you need to perform a visual inspection, looking for damage or leaks. If it’s bad, follow our how-to guide and video for replacing the power steering pump - opens in new window or tab. . It has complete step-by-step instructions.

You have to remove the drive belt or serpentine belt, then remove any power steering lines, and then the pump can go in and out. Remember, after putting on the new pump, it’s critical to bleed the system. If you don’t get out all of the air, you can expect problems.

Are you interested in fixing a power steering pump instead of buying a new one? If so, power steering pump rebuild kits are available for most vehicles. However, it’s often wiser to replace it. There are some critical adjustments necessary during a power steering pump rebuild to ensure correct pressure. It’s not the best choice for someone just trying to get back on the road.

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

On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for a new power steering pump. If you are fixing a luxury car, expect to pay more for parts.

Change These Parts With Your Power Steering Pump

A pair of Speedway Motor power steering pump replacement hoses for 1964-1972 General Motors vehicles, displayed on a white background. — Power steering hoses can be vehicle-specific. This set of Speedway Motors hoses fits a range of 1964-1972 GM vehicles.

Every power steering pump replacement requires new fluid. Continuing to use old or contaminated fluid can result in damage to the new pump. Check your owner’s manul to determine what type of power steering fluid - opens in new window or tab. you need.

The power steering hoses - opens in new window or tab. should also be inspected and replaced if there’s any sign of damage. The same is true with the power steering reservoir - opens in new window or tab. , drive belt - opens in new window or tab. , seals, and gaskets - opens in new window or tab. .

When you replace the pump, inspect the entire system for wear. After all, it is a system. A new pump won’t work if you have leaky hoses.

About the author

Brian Jones

Brian worked for several decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician in dealerships before starting his used car lot. Today, he writes for top automotive publications including Motor1. In his spare time, he's dreaming of an escape to the country's best trails in an off-road beast.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.