Has it been a hassle steering your car lately?
Are you also concerned about the suspicious reddish fluid pooling underneath your car?
In such cases, you’re likely dealing with a cracked power steering hose.
The power steering hose (or line) carries pressurized fluid to key steering system components, helping you control your vehicle’s direction. However, when it degrades and spills hydraulic fluid, you should visit the nearest repair shop for replacement ASAP.
Wondering how much a power steering hose replacement costs?
Let’s explore the potential expenses, the cost-affecting factors, and the reasons why it’s worth your money.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Power Steering Hose Replacement Cost?
- Is a Power Steering Hose Replacement Covered by a Warranty?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Power Steering Line?
- 6 Looming Signs of a Failing Power Steering Hose
- What Causes a Power Steering Line to Fail?
- How Long Do Power Steering Hoses Last?
- Should You Replace the Power Steering Hose Yourself or Hire a Professional?
How Much Does a Power Steering Hose Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you may likely pay for a power steering hose replacement:
A. Range
The average cost of replacing a power steering hose or line is between $420 and $780, which includes:
- New replacement part: $300 to $490
- Labor cost: $120 to $290
NOTE: Labor rates vary depending on the duration of the replacement. Changing a bad power steering hose takes two to four hours, and longer durations typically mean higher labor costs.
B. Factors Affecting Power Steering Line Replacement Cost
Besides your location and regional labor costs, here are other aspects that can alter your repair bill:
- Vehicle model and make: Everyday cars may function fine with standard power steering lines, but high-performance vehicles require specialized hoses that will be expensive.
- Hose type: There are two types of power steering hoses: low-pressure and high-pressure. Between the two, a high-pressure hose is more expensive because it’s made of thicker, sturdier material to sustain the steering system’s high hydraulic pressure.
- Quality of replacement part: You can choose between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or aftermarket steering lines for your vehicle. Regarding pricing, aftermarket hoses are cheaper, but OEM ones are more durable and a better fit.
- Related repairs: If the damaged hose has affected the power steering pump or rack, you’ll also need to inspect and replace them. Swapping out a failing power steering pump may incur an additional charge of over $500.
Is a Power Steering Hose Replacement Covered by a Warranty?
No, power steering components are usually not covered under the factory warranty. However, an extended manufacturer warranty may cover power steering repairs.
To find out whether your car is eligible, review your warranty documents carefully. Certain repair shops may also help you verify the coverage before performing the replacement.
Is It Worth Replacing the Power Steering Line?
Absolutely!
A damaged or leaking line can reduce fluid pressure, adversely affecting your steering system’s overall performance and driving safety. You may notice the steering wheel becoming stiff, making the car harder to control.
If left unfixed for a prolonged period, other engine parts, like the power steering pump, can overheat or wear out due to insufficient fluid. This can lead to different power steering issues or complete system failure.
To avoid this extensive damage, it’s ideal to replace the faulty power steering line at the first sign of trouble.
6 Looming Signs of a Failing Power Steering Hose
If the power steering line is damaged, a driver may notice the following:
- Steering trouble: When a steering system part like the hose fails, it directly impacts your ability to steer. Without functional power steering components, it’ll be challenging to drive, especially at low speeds.
- A puddle of red or pink fluid underneath the car: If the high-pressure hose becomes old or damaged, it’ll lose its flexibility, develop a leak, and start spilling fluid underneath the vehicle.
- Odd noises when turning the steering wheel: Once the hose starts leaking, the fluid pressure will drop, making it harder to turn the steering wheel. Eventually, you’ll hear an odd whining or screeching noise every time you try to turn the steering wheel.
- The hose is soft and bulging: If the internal layers of the high-pressure line degrade due to age or heat, fluid may seep between them, resulting in a soft, bulging hose.
- Visible damage to the hose: When there are cracks on the outer layer, it suggests that the hose can no longer handle the system’s high-pressure fluid. Driving with this cracked hose can lead to leaks and other power steering issues.
- Rubber particles in the fluid: If your mechanic finds rubber bits in the fluid during the routine fluid check or motor oil change, the internal material of the hoses may be breaking down. In such cases, a complete fluid flush and hose replacement are necessary to restore the system.
What Causes a Power Steering Line to Fail?
A power steering line can fail for several reasons, such as:
- Changing temperatures in the engine compartment can lead to wear and tear on the pressure hoses
- Dirt and debris in the fluid can potentially damage the hose from the inside
- Improper installation and over-tightening of its fittings can cause early failure of the hose
How Long Do Power Steering Hoses Last?
Power steering lines typically last for 50,000 to 100,000 miles. With proper maintenance, they may even last the lifespan of your vehicle.
To keep your hose intact for a long time, ensure the power steering system is in top condition. Here are a few tips to help you do that:
- Use power steering fluid as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Invest in high-quality hoses, pumps, and other engine parts.
- Be vigilant of any weird noises while turning the steering wheel that may signal a steering system problem.
- Schedule a power steering fluid check to catch contaminated fluid early.
- Get a power steering fluid flush every two to three years to keep the system clean.
Should You Replace the Power Steering Hose Yourself or Hire a Professional?
Replacing a faulty hose is complex, making it a challenging DIY repair. The replacement involves detaching the pump in the engine compartment and using tools like a torque wrench to tighten fittings to the correct specification.
Without the proper information and tools, the installation may fail, and power steering hose issues may remain unresolved. That’s why it’s usually best to call an auto repair mechanic.
Here’s what a replacement typically involves:
- Park the car and raise it using jack stands.
- Loosen the pressure hose tube nuts and remove the old hose.
- Attach the new hose and tighten the nuts using a torque wrench. If the rubber return hose shows signs of wear, they’ll also replace it.
- Bleed the steering system to remove any air bubbles trapped inside.
- Test drive the car to make sure there’s no steering trouble.
Keep the Power Steering System Leak-Free with AutoNation Mobile Service
Power steering hose issues don’t just affect your vehicle control, but can quickly escalate to expensive damage if they impact critical parts like the pump or rack.
If you suspect you have a bad hose but are unable to confirm it, AutoNation Mobile Service mechanics can help. Our auto repair experts can quickly assess the condition of your power steering hose and replace it if needed.
That’s not all — you’ll get fair pricing and after-hours customer service on the repairs, so if anything unexpected comes up, you’re covered.
Get in touch with us and schedule a hassle-free power steering hose replacement today.