How Much Does It Cost To Replace Power Steering Lines

The average cost for replacing a power steering hose is $50 to $800, depending on if you go to the mechanic or DIY.

The price range for replacing a power steering hose is based on the national averages for all vehicle types, does not consider your particular make or model, and does not include any taxes or fees.

For a more accurate estimate based on your location, make, and model, please use the RepairPal Fair Price Estimator.

Cost To Replace a Power Steering Hose at the Mechanic: $300 to $800

Parts: $50 (aftermarket parts) to $600 (OEM parts)
Labor: $80 to $200

Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, this repair can take between 45 minutes and two hours. If you need to add power steering fluid after the replacement has been completed.

Cost To Replace a Power Steering Hose as a DIY Project: $50 to $300

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Parts Needed:
- Flashlight
- Drain pan
- Flare nut wrench
- Power Steering Hose Assembly

On vehicles not equipped with electric power steering, the hydraulic power steering system sends fluid from the pump to the steering mechanism (either a steering rack or a steering box) using a pair of power steering hoses. There are two types of power steering hoses in this system: high pressure and low pressure. A high-pressure hose must withstand a torture test of 1,500 psi maximum working pressure, while the low-pressure hose is used for return and must withstand 250 psi. High-pressure hoses are specific to individual vehicles, while the low-pressure hoses are generally made from universal bulk rubber hose that you can purchase from an auto parts store or home improvement store.

What Is a Power Steering Hose Replacement?

Although not required, it’s a good idea to replace both power steering hoses at the same time when one has failed, just to be safe. Replacing these hoses is an easy task if you have the right tools. Some high-pressure hose designs necessitate the use of specialty wrenches for removal and installation, while the low-pressure hoses are typically held in place with a basic hose clamp.

What Does Replacing the Power Steering Hose Include?

Replacing a power steering hose starts with inspecting the hose for leaks: a high-pressure hose will usually spray fluid in a narrow stream while the low-pressure hose will drip fluid. A drain pan is placed under the power steering pressure hose connection at the gearbox or steering rack, and fluid is drained from the pressure hose when removed. The fittings for the power steering hose will be loosened at the gearbox or steering rack and the level of the power steering pump. The new hose will be installed following the route of the previous hose, and the fittings will be tightened, monitoring the level of tightening so as not to overdo it on the threaded connections.

The power steering reservoir will be filled to meet the manufacturer’s recommendations, starting the engine to circulate the fluid and then stopping the engine to check the fluid level and top off if necessary.

What Happens If You Don’t Replace the Power Steering Hose?

If you don’t replace the power steering hose(s), you may damage the power steering pump, requiring you to replace the pump. Another possibility is that the power steering fluid leak may spray into a hot engine part, such as the exhaust manifold, sparking a fire.

Related OBD2 Codes you may experience if you skip replacing your power steering hose:

P0550 = Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0551 = Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0552 = Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit Low
P0553 = Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit High
P0554 = Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Intermittent

For more information on How-To Change Power Steering Fluid or How Much Does a Power Steering Fluid Change Cost and more, check out the Fixdapp blog.

How Often To Replace Your Power Steering Hose

Your power steering system should last well over 100,000 miles if you maintain your vehicle with regularly scheduled services. Keep the power steering fluid free of any contaminants and freshen it up as needed. While the hoses may eventually deteriorate due to normal wear and tear on your vehicle, you should not have to worry about your power steering system for many years.

While most vehicles will reach the 100,000-mile mark without having an issue with the power steering system, it’s best to consult your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation on maintenance and repairs related to the power steering system including how often to check the fluid and replace the serpentine belt. Always follow the manufacturer guidelines and reach out to your local mechanic for answers to any questions regarding your vehicle’s scheduled maintenance.

Common Symptoms Telling You That You Need To Replace Your Power Steering Hose

Symptoms include:

Difficulty steering
Noisy steering
Visible power steering fluid leak
Low fluid levels
P0550, P0551, P0552, P0553, or P0554 OBD2 codes

Related Maintenance Services

The following maintenance services are commonly performed when a power steering hose is replaced:

Some power steering systems require a vacuum device or extended purge procedure to be used to remove the air from the system.
Replacement of the seats at the line ends. The high-pressure lines usually use double-flared fittings, and the low-pressure return hose will use o-ring seals.
If you have damaged the power steering pump by driving too long with a power steering hose leak, the pump may also need to be replaced.

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