You’re out enjoying a smooth ride, until a turn reminds you that something’s wrong — your steering lags.
It’s not just a fluke. The pitman and idler arms may be damaged. Letting this slide could lead to serious steering problems, so it’s best to handle it quickly.
Worried about the expense?
In this guide, we’ll cover the pitman and idler arm replacement cost, pricing factors, and the repair process so you know what to expect.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Pitman and Idler Arm Replacement Cost?
- Is it Worth Replacing the Pitman and Idler Arms?
- 6 Warning Signs You Need a Pitman and Idler Arms Replacement
- How Long Do Pitman and Idler Arms Last?
- How is a Damaged Pitman or Idler Arm Diagnosed and Replaced?
How Much Does a Pitman and Idler Arm Replacement Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of the total costs:
A. Range
Replacing a pitman and idler arm for your car or truck can cost between $130 and $450, which covers:
- Cost of parts:
- Pitman arm: $90 to $160
- Idler arm: $30 to $200
- Cost of labor:
- Pitman arm replacement: $150 to $230
- Idler arm replacement: $100 to $250
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Some factors that can affect your final bill include:
- Car make and model: High-performance and luxury vehicles often have more complex steering systems, which can make replacement more expensive than in standard cars.
- Varying labor costs: Labor charges can vary based on how long the repair takes, the mechanic’s skill level, and regional pricing.
- Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vs. aftermarket parts: OEM parts are more expensive but offer a better fit and reliable performance. Aftermarket parts are often cheaper but may lack the durability of OEM components.
- Related repairs: Replacing the pitman and idler arms can reveal issues in the steering gear box and steering knuckle. Fixing these components will cost you extra. For example, a steering knuckle replacement will cost an additional $670 to $850.
Is it Worth Replacing the Pitman and Idler Arms?
Yes, definitely.
These parts are essential to your vehicle’s steering system. The pitman arm connects the steering gearbox to the steering linkage, transferring the motion that starts the process of turning your wheels. The idler arm supports the linkage on the passenger side and works in sync with the pitman arm to keep the steering stable and properly aligned.
Together, these components are essential to how your vehicle responds when you turn the steering wheel. Even a small issue with either arm can affect steering accuracy and safety.
A timely replacement keeps you in control on the road and prevents further damage to other steering components.
6 Warning Signs You Need a Pitman and Idler Arms Replacement
Here are some evident symptoms that your pitman and idler arms might be failing:
- Loose or wobbly steering wheel: If your steering wheel feels unusually loose or has too much play, it could mean the pitman or idler arm is worn out. These components help keep your steering tight and responsive.
- Difficulty maintaining control: When either arm is damaged, the steering can feel unstable or unpredictable. You may notice it’s harder to keep the vehicle moving in a straight line, especially at higher speeds.
- Pulling to one side: A worn pitman or idler arm can lead to uneven steering force distribution, causing the vehicle to pull to one side.
- Uneven tire wear: Because these arms help maintain wheel alignment, damage to either can lead to misalignment and uneven tire wear over time.
- Unusual noises: If you hear strange sounds, like clunking or popping, when turning the steering wheel or driving over bumps, the pitman or idler arm might be loose or failing.
- Steering feels delayed or unresponsive: Another symptom of a bad pitman or idler arm is a delay between turning the steering wheel and the wheels responding.
How Long Do Pitman and Idler Arms Last?
Pitman and idler arms are sturdy components that, with proper maintenance, can last the lifetime of the vehicle. This typically translates to 100,000 to 150,000 miles.
However, factors like rough driving conditions, frequent off-road use, poor road surfaces, and lack of lubrication can cause them to wear out sooner.
Regular inspections and proper maintenance can help catch issues early and extend their lifespan.
How is a Damaged Pitman or Idler Arm Diagnosed and Replaced?
Diagnosing and replacing a damaged pitman or idler arm is a job best done by professionals. These components are crucial to your vehicle’s steering system, and improper handling can lead to steering failure or safety hazards. That’s why a DIY replacement is not recommended.
Let’s check out how a mechanic will go about it.
A. Diagnosis
The mechanic will:
- Inspect the front-end steering components. They’ll check for excessive play or looseness in the pitman or idler arm ball joint.
- Try to move the centerlink relative to the pitman arm to check for any noise.
- Look for a torn dust boot, visible cracks, or a loose joint in the pitman or idler arm, which are all signs that replacement is necessary.
B. Replacement
A mechanic will perform the following steps to replace a pitman and idler arm:
- Align the steering system by ensuring the wheels are pointed straight and the steering wheel is centered.
- Disconnect the pitman arm from the centerlink using a ball joint separator after removing the retaining nut.
- Use a special pitman arm puller tool to detach it from the splined output shaft of the steering gear.
- Install the new pitman arm in the correct position on the output shaft and reattach it to the centerlink.
- Disconnect the idler arm from the frame and the centerlink, usually by removing a mounting bracket and a few bolts.
- Install the new idler arm securely and reconnect to the centerlink, ensuring it mirrors the alignment and height of the pitman arm.
- Torque all fasteners to specification.
- Conduct a wheel alignment if needed and test drive to ensure the issue is resolved.
Restore Steering Control with Pitman & Idler Arm Replacement
Worn pitman and idler arms can compromise your vehicle’s stability and steering — especially during turns.
Don’t risk your safety or let repair costs spiral.
AutoNation Mobile Service brings expert repairs to your driveway.
Our experienced mobile mechanics are available seven days a week, and we stand behind our work with a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty.
Book your appointment today to get your pitman and idler arms fixed with utmost precision and care.