The Average Cost for a Power Steering Flush Is $16 to $125 Depending on if You Go to the Mechanic or DIY.
This price range is based on national averages for all vehicles and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model. Related repairs or maintenance, such as the power steering pump, hoses, or rack may also be needed. For a more accurate estimate based on your make, model, and location, use the RepairPal Fair Price Estimator.
Get a more accurate estimate for your power steering fluid replacement using RepairPal’s Fair Price Estimator
Cost at the Mechanic: $95 to $125
- Parts: $16 to $23
- Labor: $95
Assuming that none of the parts you need to disconnect are rusted together, it should take between one to two hours to flush your power steering fluid. The fluid itself is inexpensive, so the vast majority of what you’re paying at the mechanic is their labor to do the job for you. If you’re not a DIYer, this is money well spent. But if you’re comfortable turning a wrench, you can save most of the cost of this job by doing it yourself.
Cost to DIY: $16 to $23
- DIY Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Parts Needed: Power steering fluid
All that’s required to change the power steering fluid yourself is to disconnect the return line, remove the old fluid from the system, flush it, connect the return line, and fill it up with new fluid. All you need is fluid, basic tools, a drain pan, and a turkey baster — preferably not the one from your kitchen. Check out our article detailing the entire procedure.
What Is a Power Steering Fluid Change?
Power steering is typically a hydraulic system, similar to your brakes, that makes it easier for you to steer your car. This system contains a fluid that should be changed from time to time. This is also a good time to check for leaks or worn hoses and repair them if necessary.
More and more new cars use an electric power steering system instead. This uses an electric motor instead of hydraulics and does not require fluid changes.
What Happens If You Don’t Change the Power Steering Fluid?
Automotive fluids get dirty and begin to break down over time. Not changing the fluid makes your power steering pump’s job more difficult, which can lead to failure. You will never completely lose control of your steering, but if the pump fails it will become extremely difficult to turn the steering wheel, requiring even more effort than manual steering.
Changing your power steering fluid is a fairly simple job to do yourself at home. This can save you most of the cost of having a shop do it.
How Often to Change Power Steering Fluid
Generally speaking, you should flush your power steering fluid every two years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Be sure to check your manufacturer recommended maintenance schedule or use the free FIXD app to find out what is recommended for your particular make and model.
Common Symptoms You Need to Change Power Steering Fluid
- Fluid is brown or black
- Groaning noise from the power steering pump, particularly when turning the steering wheel
- Increased difficulty turning the steering wheel
Related Maintenance Services
A power steering fluid flush is generally required when replacing any other components in the system. This is to eliminate any air bubbles that may form in the fluid when parts of the system are removed. Some of these components include:
- Power steering pump
- Power steering hoses and lines
- Power steering rack
Claim Your Custom Maintenance Schedule
Get the FIXD Sensor and free app today for a custom maintenance schedule based on your make, model, and mileage. Never miss important maintenance again with automated maintenance alerts! Learn more at fixd.com.
- Get a More Accurate Estimate for Your Car
Recovering autocross and track day enthusiast. Once turned a VW Jetta into a pickup truck. Lives in a van down by the river. Dream car: 2001 Subaru WRC rally car.
