If you’re experiencing problems with your car’s power steering, it might be time to replace the pump. But before you buy a new one, be sure to check Pricespy’s price guide to see whether a replacement pump is cheaper than a repair.
What is The Power Steering Pump Replacement and What Does It Do?
Power steering pumps are under the hood and they pump the fluid to turn the crankshaft. When the pump goes out, it can cause a lot of problems, since it’s responsible for keeping everything moving smoothly. If your vehicle’s power steering pump is going out, you’ll likely experience some difficulty turning the wheel and poor fuel economy. Replacing the power steering pump can be a pricey repair, but it’s one that definitely needs to be done if it starts becoming problematic.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Power Steering Pump?
A power steering pump replacement can be a costly repair, depending on the make and model of your car. Here are some estimates for a typical power steering pump replacement:
Ford Taurus: $1,100
Chevrolet Malibu: $950
Ford Focus: $800
Nissan Maxima: $1,000
Volkswagen Jetta: $900
Jeep Cherokee: $2,000
When Should the Power Steering Pump Be Replaced?
When you think about it, the power steering pump is something of a miracle machine. It helps to power the steering wheel and help make the car move in the desired direction. Unfortunately, over time, the power steering pump can start to show its age. This can lead to decreased performance and even failure. So when should you replace your power steering pump? Here are a few factors to consider:
1. Age: The power steering pump will become less effective as it ages. This is especially true if it has been subject to frequent wear and tear.
2. Performance: A power steering pump that isn’t performing optimally will cause decreased steering performance and even possible failure of the unit.
3. Condition: A power steering pump with signs of wear and tear (like leaking or reduced fluid flow) should be replaced as soon as possible in order to maintain optimal performance and safety.
How to Prepare for the Replacement
Replacing a power steering pump is an essential maintenance task for your vehicle. Here are three tips to make the process smoother:
1. Check fluid levels and Replace as Necessary
Before doing any work on your car, it’s important to make sure all the fluids are at the correct levels. Check the fluid level in both the power steering pump reservoir and in the engine oil. If either of these levels are low, replace them before proceeding.
2. Remove Any Damaged Parts
If there are any damaged or missing parts on your power steering pump, you’ll need to remove them before replacing it. Make sure to keep all of the parts accounted for so you can reinstall them in the correct order afterwards.
3. Prep Your Vehicle For Installation
Make sure your car is prepared for installation by cleaning all surfaces where the new pump will be mounted and removing any debris or sticker residue. This will make the installation process much smoother.
What to Expect After the Replacement
When it comes time to replace your power steering pump, there are a few things you’ll need to know in advance. First and foremost, the cost of the pump replacement can vary significantly depending on the make and model of your car. Secondly, a replacement pump will likely require some fabrication or modification to your car’s system in order to install it. Finally, once your new power steering pump is installed it will need to be primed and tested before you can use it. In short, there is plenty of information to consider before making this important repair, so be ready for what follows.
When you’re pricing out a power steering pump replacement, keep in mind that the cost can range anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more. Obviously, the higher price points typically reflect more expensive pumps made by well-known brands like Mercedes-Benz or Ford. On the other hand, some less expensive pumps from Nissan or Toyota can also be just as effective in terms of performance and durability.
Assuming you decide to go with a more expensive option, you’ll want to know that most power steering pump replacements take around two hours to complete. This includes removing the old pump assembly from your car, installing the new one, and