Power Steering Belt Cost
Last Updated on July 28, 2021 | Written by CPA Alec Pow
First Published on July 28, 2021 | Content Reviewed by 
CFA Alexander Popivker
The power steering belt in a vehicle will usually work to move more than the power steering.
The belts found in a car’s engine are oftentimes connected to more than one system, even though today with most modern vehicles, the serpentine belt will control everything from keeping oil pressure steady and regulating coolant flow. With an older vehicle, however – those built before 1998 or so – there may be separate belts for different components of the car.
The power steering belt is one of the most important parts of your car. Depending on your car’s make and model, it might be responsible for a number of different things, including cooling and air conditioning systems, pumps, alternators, or compressors too! If it breaks you need to replace it right away.
How much does it cost to replace a power steering belt?
Usually, a power steering belt will only cost somewhere between $11 and $48. This price will be for the belt alone and won’t include any professional installation or warranty. If you know your way around the car’s engine, this job should be simple enough to not require professional help.
You will find that a lot of the power steering belts available on websites like AutoZone will retail for $10 to $50.
As an example, you can find belts that will work with Hyundai or KIA belts for sale at just over $10.
You might also like our articles about the cost of timing belt replacement, full engine swap, or AC recharge.
Getting to the cost of the actual installation of the belt, this job can cost anywhere from $90 to $200. This range will be influenced by factors like your car’s make and model, the mechanic you choose for the job, and your geographical location.
According to JustAnswer, it should cost a maximum of $25 for the part alone and around $150 for the installation. Your Mechanic broke down the final costs and their estimates were anywhere between $120-$247 with costs depending on what type of car you have.
Details on the power steering belt
When you think about it, a power steering belt is not much more than just rubber. But this simple strip of stretchy material has the ability to push the power from your engine out through various components that need help in order to work correctly. The belt usually goes around one pulley which operates its movement so when attached properly, it can do things like put pressure on the water pump or drive air conditioning and even charge up your battery.
The power steering belt is comprised of a ribbed inner lining and a smooth outer layer. It provides extra traction to avoid slippage, while its tensioner ensures that the amount of stress on it stays even so as not to affect other systems in your car’s engine. The belt will then wrap around several pulleys with just enough pressure for efficiency but without putting any unnecessary stress on the rest of the components.
The mechanic will first loosen the power steering belt before removing it. Once removed, they’ll install a new one on top of the pump and tighten them together as well as adjusting their position so that everything is aligned correctly. The final step requires turning on the engine to make sure there are no problems with any mechanics or parts in place.
Any additional expenses to consider?
Alternator and A/C belts are often recommended to be replaced at the same time as your steering belt. The reason for this is because these items can wear out together since they all share a location on an engine.
Important things to consider
If your power steering belt stops working, the next thing you’ll notice is that it will be increasingly difficult to turn. Even if you can still steer as normal, a worn-out or slipping belt might cause an unpleasant and jerky ride. One of the most noticeable signs of a power steering belt working poorly would be the noise coming from under the hood. It will be a screeching sound, very easy to hear while driving.
Your next car inspection is a great time to make sure your power steering system functions properly. During the service, mechanics can adjust any tension in belts and prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line. You should try your best to have the belt checked every 6,000 miles to ensure proper working.
Is there any way to spend less?
As long as you know the power steering belt is bad, get at least three quotes from local mechanics. Most of them will be very happy to offer you an estimate over the phone once you give them your car’s make and model.
Be wary though – a lot of mechanics will try to upsell and give your car more work than it needs.
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