Is your car making strange buzzing noises while turning?
Or does steering feel heavier than usual?
Your electric power steering (EPS) might be failing. Ignoring it will not only make your car rides unsteady but also lead to costly repairs down the line. So fixing it immediately is crucial.
But how much does it cost to fix electric power steering?
We’ll break down the potential repair costs, explore common causes of EPS failure, and highlight key warning signs — so you can act in time.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does It Cost to Fix Electric Power Steering?
- 5 Pressing Signs of Failing Electric Power Steering
- What Causes Electric Power Steering Failure?
- Should You Drive With a Faulty Electric Power Steering System?
- 3 FAQs on Electric Power Steering
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Electric Power Steering?
The expense of fixing your electric power steering system by a certified mechanic depends on which parts need replacement. The total repair costs typically range between $100 and $1050.
Here’s what you can expect to pay for different parts:
- Minor repairs (such as a blown fuse or faulty sensor): $100 to $300
- Steering column replacement: $400 to $900
- Power Steering motor replacement: $300 to $800
The labor cost varies depending on the region and type of auto repair shop. Some shops might even charge a diagnostic fee of $100 to $150 as part of the labor cost.
Even though rare, a faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) can also cause EPS issues. A new ECM can cost between $800 and $1,500 to purchase and install.
An electric power steering repair may also reveal damage to other steering components, such as the steering rack and wheel. In many cases, the mechanic may recommend additional services such as a wheel alignment or tire replacement after the repair. These extra fixes can lead to higher overall costs.
NOTE: Modern vehicles typically use EPS systems. However, if you have an older vehicle, it may have a hydraulic power steering system, which uses a power steering pump, steering hose, power steering fluid, and a steering gear. A power steering pump replacement alone can cost $500 to $800.
Delaying repairs can increase the total expense by several hundred dollars, as a failing EPS may accelerate normal wear, which could snowball into costly repairs. That’s why it’s important to schedule a fix when you start noticing signs.
Let’s find out more.
5 Pressing Signs of Failing Electric Power Steering
Here are some symptoms that your electric power steering system needs fixing:
- Heavy steering: If the EPS fails, there will be a loss of power assistance when turning the wheel. This causes the steering wheel to feel heavy, especially at a low speed.
- Dashboard warning light: An EPS issue will usually trigger a warning light, like “EPS” or “Power Steering,” on the dashboard.
- Delayed steering response: The steering may feel slow or less responsive, making it harder to control the vehicle. This happens when the electric motor or sensors begin to malfunction, causing a delay between turning the steering wheel and actual wheel movement.
- Unusual noise: A strange noise (e.g., buzzing, clicking) or vibrations while turning the wheel can indicate trouble with the EPS motor or steering components.
- Trouble driving in a straight line: If your EPS isn’t working properly, your vehicle might pull to one side, forcing you to constantly adjust the steering to stay on course. This can occur when the system sends incorrect signals or fails to provide equal assistance to both sides of the steering.
Wondering what causes these symptoms to appear?
Keep reading to find out.
What Causes Electric Power Steering Failure?
Apart from normal wear and tear over time, these factors can cause your electric power steering to fail:
- Wiring issues: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring can disrupt the communication and power flow within the EPS system. This could result in intermittent steering assistance or total failure.
- Steering sensor failure: The steering sensor tracks how much and which way you turn the steering wheel, then sends that information to the EPS control unit. If the sensor fails, the system may not provide the correct steering assistance.
- Power-assisted motor failure: The power steering motor provides assistance when turning the steering wheel. If this motor stops working, due to internal damage or electrical issues, you may feel the steering become unusually stiff or lose power completely.
- Moisture intrusion: If water enters the EPS system due to poor sealing or while driving through deep water, it can cause corrosion, short circuits, or sensor failure.
- Engine Control Module (ECM) failure: The ECM interprets data from the steering sensors to determine how much assistance the electric motor should provide. If the ECM malfunctions, the entire power steering system may become unresponsive or behave erratically.
- Battery problems: A weak or aging battery won’t supply enough voltage to the power steering motor. When this happens, the system may shut down or work poorly, making it harder to steer the vehicle.
- Fuse or relay failure: Fuses and relays regulate the power flow to EPS components like the motor and control unit. If a fuse blows or a relay fails, the system loses power and stops functioning.
- Alternator issues: The EPS system depends on a stable power supply from the vehicle’s alternator. If the alternator is failing (due to a bad voltage regulator), it may not generate enough power for the EPS to function.
- Mechanical problems: Though the EPS system is mostly electronic, it still depends on mechanical components like the steering rack and pinion. If these parts are damaged or worn out, the load on the EPS to control steering can increase.
- Worn joints or bearings: Over time, the bearings or joints in the steering linkage may wear out or rust. This adds resistance to the steering mechanism, making it harder to turn the wheel and straining the EPS motor.
- Extreme temperatures: Extreme cold slows down the response time of sensors and electronics, as low temperatures affect battery output. On the other hand, high temperatures lead to overheating in the motor or control unit, causing the system to shut down.
Now that you understand the causes of EPS failure, let’s find out if it’s safe to keep driving with defective power steering.
Should You Drive With a Faulty Electric Power Steering System?
While you technically can, it’s not recommended.
When your EPS system fails, you lose power assist, but not total steering. Without power assistance, steering becomes much heavier, especially at a low speed. This makes the car harder to control during emergency maneuvers, increasing the risk of accidents.
Continuing to drive with bad EPS could also damage other components, such as the steering column or steering rack, leading to costly repairs worth hundreds of dollars.
To avoid such wallet-denting fixes, contact an auto repair shop with experienced technicians as soon as possible.
Still got questions?
We’ve answered some common queries you may have below.
3 FAQs on Electric Power Steering
Here’s everything else you need to know:
1. How Can You Extend the Life of Your Electric Power Steering?
Here are some simple ways to improve the longevity and reliability of your EPS system:
- Have your vehicle’s electrical system inspected at least once a year, or during regular maintenance.
- Avoid driving through deep water or flooded roads to prevent moisture damage.
- Avoid holding the steering at full lock, as keeping the wheel fully turned for extended periods can strain the EPS motor. Steer smoothly and avoid excessive force.
2. Can You Fix the Electric Power Steering System Yourself?
No, you shouldn’t try to fix an electric power steering problem yourself. This complex system requires specialized diagnostic equipment and professional expertise to repair the problem correctly.
Attempting a DIY fix without proper training and equipment could worsen the problem or create safety risks on the road. For greater reliability and peace of mind, it’s always best to consult expert technicians who know how to handle the job.
3. What Should You Do If Your Electric Power Steering Fails?
Here are some steps you can follow if your electric power steering fails while on the road:
- Step 1: Find a safe place to pull over as soon as possible.
- Step 2: Check your dashboard for warning lights and note any alerts or error codes. This information will help the mechanic diagnose the issue more efficiently.
- Step 3: Arrange a tow to the nearest repair shop or call a mobile mechanic for roadside assistance, as you should avoid driving.
Get Fast and Reliable EPS Repair with AutoNation Mobile Service
A faulty EPS system makes your car harder to steer and compromises your safety. So, it’s crucial to have the system checked as soon as you hear any strange noises or experience any vibrations.
Too busy to visit a repair shop?
AutoNation Mobile Service will have a mobile mechanic repair your electric power steering problem from your driveway, seven days a week.
The best part?
Every repair comes with upfront pricing and a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty — be it routine maintenance, wheel alignment, or an oil change.
So book an appointment with us today to get back safely on the road.