Power steering fluid keeps your steering smooth and responsive while protecting key components (like the pump and reservoir) from wear. But like brake fluid or motor oil, it degrades over time.
That’s why a timely flush or fluid replacement is essential.
So, how much does a power steering flush cost?
And is it more expensive than a standard power steering fluid replacement?
Read on to find out what each service costs and the warning signs that you need one. We’ll also share some easy maintenance tips to keep your power steering system in top condition.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Power Steering Flush or Fluid Replacement Cost?
- 5 Signs You Need a Power Steering Flush or Fluid Replacement
- What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Power Steering Fluid?
- Can You Perform the Power Steering Flush or Fluid Replacement Yourself?
- How Often Should You Get a Power Steering Fluid Flush or Replacement?
- What to Do if Your Power Steering Fluid Is Leaking?
- How to Maintain Your Power Steering System
How Much Does a Power Steering Flush or Fluid Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you can expect to pay and the factors that influence the final cost:
A. Range
The average power steering fluid change cost ranges from $60 to $125, while the power steering flush costs between $170 and $205.
These costs include:
- New power steering fluid (PS fluid): $10 to $30
- Labor costs for power steering fluid exchange: $50 to $95
- Labor costs for power steering flush: $160 to $175
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The final cost depends on:
- Fluid type and brand: Power steering systems typically use synthetic or conventional hydraulic fluid. However, some vehicles (like the Toyota Corolla or light trucks) may also use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in their steering system. Of these, purchasing automatic transmission fluid will cost you more. Further, you’ll also have to factor in the fluid’s brand while buying the fluid. Fluids from popular brands are pricier than local ones.
- Car make and model: You’ll need power steering fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. For example, luxury high-performance cars like the Audi A5 require Pentosin CHF-11S power steering fluid for optimal performance.
- System complexity: In some cars, like the Chevrolet Aveo, which uses hydraulic fluid, the reservoir sits on the driver’s side near the top of the engine bay. Technicians can access it easily, so it’s not usually an expensive repair. In others, like a 2012 Honda Civic, the reservoir hides behind the windshield washer tank on the passenger side. Accessing it takes more effort, which raises the labor cost.
- Flush vs. fluid replacement: A power steering flush costs more because technicians use a machine to thoroughly remove most contaminants and sludge from your system. In contrast, fluid replacement costs less as it only requires draining the old power steering fluid and topping up with new fluid.
- Repair location: Getting a power steering flush or fluid change costs more in big cities than in smaller towns. City-based auto repair shops have higher rents, wages, and other overhead costs, which are passed on to customers.
- Repair shop type: Dealerships usually charge more for PS fluid flushes or changes because they use brand-specific parts and fluids. On the other hand, independent shops can save you some money, as they may use aftermarket fluids or parts, and their pricing structures tend to be more flexible.
- Additional repairs: A contaminated power steering system can eventually wear out or damage other parts, like the steering pump or gear. If that happens, a power steering pump replacement will cost an additional $500 to $800, and replacing the steering gear will cost between $1,000 and $1,300.
5 Signs You Need a Power Steering Flush or Fluid Replacement
Here are some issues you’ll notice when your power steering system needs a flush or fluid change:
- A puddle of dirty or dark-colored fluid under the car
- The steering system makes squeaking and grinding noises even after adding clean fluid
- Increased steering effort, especially at low speeds or during tight maneuvers
- Burning smell due to low power steering fluid levels, an overheated power steering pump, or a failing pump
- Metal shavings or debris in the power steering fluid reservoir
What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Power Steering Fluid?
Over time, internal wear and debris contaminate the power steering fluid. If you don’t change the old power steering fluid according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, the built-up debris can damage the steering rack and pinion seals, resulting in costly repairs.
And once the seals are compromised, contaminants can enter the system, affecting the fluid’s integrity.
As this dirty fluid circulates, power steering components like the pump or steering gear can wear out faster. This can lead to increased steering effort or unresponsive, erratic steering.
In some cases, the steering system may malfunction entirely, putting you, other drivers on the road, and pedestrians at risk.
Can You Perform the Power Steering Flush or Fluid Replacement Yourself?
You shouldn’t!
A power steering fluid exchange or flush requires the right tools and experience working with engine components under the car. That’s why it’s best to let an auto repair mechanic do it.
Here’s how a mechanic will manually flush the old power steering fluid and refill the system with fresh fluid:
- Raise the front end of your car using jack stands.
- Remove the catch tray under the steering system.
- Place a pan underneath the car and disconnect the low-pressure power steering hose to drain old, dirty fluid.
- Unscrew the power steering fluid reservoir cap and fill it halfway with fresh fluid to release the air trapped inside the system.
- Start the car, rotate the steering wheel to circulate the fresh fluid, and push out the old liquid.
- Stop draining once the liquid starts looking clear, indicating the old fluid has been flushed out.
- Reconnect the return hose and fill the reservoir with clean power steering fluid up to the recommended level.
- Turn the steering wheel again to circulate the clean fluid for about five minutes, and turn off the car.
- Check the fluid level and refill the reservoir if needed, then close its cap.
NOTE: If you’re just replacing the old fluid instead of doing a full flush, the mechanic will only drain out the old fluid from the reservoir and refill it with fresh power steering fluid.
How Often Should You Get a Power Steering Fluid Flush or Replacement?
You should change the fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to avoid power steering issues. If your car has a hydraulic or electro-hydraulic power steering system (HPS or EHPS), get it flushed every two years or 75,000 miles.
But if your car has electric power steering (EPS), you don’t have to worry about getting it flushed.
Why?
The EPS system works with an electric motor and power steering control unit to turn your vehicle, so it doesn’t require any fluid. Since there’s no fluid, there’s no risk of contamination.
What to Do if Your Power Steering Fluid Is Leaking?
First, pop the hood and check the power steering reservoir cap. Ensure it’s on tight — sometimes, a loose or missing cap lets fluid splash out, leading to fluid leaks and low power steering fluid levels.
If the cap is secure and you’re still losing fluid, it’s a good idea to call a mechanic. Here’s what they’ll do:
- Inspect the power steering hose, reservoir, pump, steering rack, tires, and gearbox for signs of fluid leaks or damage.
- Perform pressure tests to locate the power steering fluid leak.
- Replace any damaged parts, like the power steering pump, hose, or seals.
- Flush and refill the power steering fluid.
- Start the engine to confirm that they’ve fixed the leak and that the system functions properly.
How to Maintain Your Power Steering System
Follow these simple maintenance tips to avoid power steering issues and expensive repairs:
- Monitor the power steering fluid level once a month
- Schedule power steering service as per manufacturer recommendations
- Replace the power steering filter once a year
- Get power steering components like the pump inspected every 31,000 miles
- Steer gently to avoid putting excess pressure on the steering system
- Inspect the rack steer boots (rubber covers that seal the end of the steering rack) for tears or cracks during routine maintenance service
Say Goodbye to Power Steering Woes with AutoNation Mobile Service
A functional power steering system gives you control over your car. However, dirt and grime can eventually enter the system and contaminate the fluid. Once it becomes dirty and discolored, getting a power steering fluid change or flush is essential to avoid costly repairs.
But if a stiff steering wheel stops you from driving to the garage, mechanics from AutoNation Mobile Service can perform the flush service right from your driveway.
We’re a mobile auto repair solution that offers simple online bookings and upfront pricing. All repairs come with a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty.
Book an appointment to restore your power steering system or for any other car maintenance service, such as an oil change, transmission fluid change, brake fluid flush, or tire rotations.