Grinding noises from the engine bay and a hard-to-turn steering wheel are glaring signs of a bad power steering belt.
But don’t worry!
The replacement cost won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Let’s explore the power steering belt replacement cost and the signs that indicate you need to replace it immediately.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Power Steering Belt Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Steering Belt?
- Signs You Need a Power Steering Belt Replacement
- How Long Does a Power Steering Belt Last?
- Can I Replace the Power Steering Belt Myself?
- Does My Car Have a Power Steering or Serpentine Belt?
How Much Does a Power Steering Belt Replacement Cost?
A power steering belt was usually found in vehicles manufactured before the 1990s. These vehicles had separate belts for multiple engine components. But today, most cars have a single belt called the serpentine belt that connects various accessory pulleys.
However, certain specific models might still use a separate belt for the power steering system. Let’s check the replacement costs for a power steering belt.
A. Range
The average cost of replacing the belt is between $110 and $245, comprising:
- Parts: $10 to $75
- Labor: $100 to $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Your location and car repair shop rates can impact the final bill. Other factors that’ll affect the costs include:
- Car model and make: High-performance and luxury cars require costlier parts.
- Belt’s quality: Premium power steering belts made of Neoprene are more expensive than the standard Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber.
- Additional repairs: While checking the power steering belt, a mechanic may also replace other belts, pulleys, and bearings if they’re worn.
Is It Worth Replacing the Steering Belt?
Absolutely!
Your car’s power steering belt can crack or slip due to wear and tear. Once it fails, you’ll struggle to turn the steering wheel as the broken belt will affect your car’s power steering pump. If ignored, you could even face a complete loss of steering power.
That’s why you need to replace the belt ASAP.
Signs You Need a Power Steering Belt Replacement
Here are some red flags indicating it’s time to replace your old belt:
- Grinding or squealing sound
- Sudden loss of power steering
- Visible cracks or belt damage
- Dirt or oil on the belt
How Long Does a Power Steering Belt Last?
A power steering belt can last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. However, regular usage as well as exposure to heat and friction will hasten belt wear.
It’s best to get your belts checked every 3 months or 3,000 miles to catch issues early.
Can I Replace the Power Steering Belt Myself?
You can, but you shouldn’t.
To replace the belt, you’ll have to access the engine components, detach the tensioner pulley, and remove additional belts if required.
What’s more?
You need to be careful while reattaching the parts and belts, as improper installation can cause misalignment and belt slippage.
Bottom line: Undertaking this can be risky if you’re not used to the car repair process. So, it’s best to schedule an auto repair service or call a mobile mechanic to replace your old belt.
Does My Car Have a Power Steering or Serpentine Belt?
If your car’s engine compartment has 2 to 3 belts, it’ll include a power steering belt. This belt provides power to the power steering pump, pressurizing the fluid in the Hydraulic Pump Steering system (HPS) to help steer the vehicle.
You’ll mostly see a power steering belt in older cars, as newer vehicles only have a single component called the serpentine belt or drive belt. The serpentine belt runs across various engine accessory pulleys to keep your vehicle operating smoothly.
If this accessory drive belt gets damaged, your car’s alternator, air conditioning compressor, and steering pump can stop functioning. To resolve the problem, you’ll have to get a drive belt replacement.
Note: If you’re still unsure whether your car has a power steering or serpentine accessory belt, contact a mechanic.
Fix Power Steering Troubles with AutoNation Mobile Service
The steering belt works with the power steering system parts to guide and turn your car smoothly. If it breaks, your car won’t steer the way you want.
If you think your car has a broken belt, call AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile auto repair solution that offers easy online bookings, upfront pricing, and a 12-month, 12,000-mile repair warranty.
Contact us to have our mobile mechanics restore your car’s power steering system right from your driveway.