How Much Does Power Steering Fluid Flush Cost?

Last Updated on September 14, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Power steering makes turning your vehicle’s wheels smooth and easy by using hydraulic pressure generated by an electric or belt-driven pump. Fresh, clean power steering fluid is crucial for this system to operate safely and efficiently. But how much does it cost to thoroughly flush the old contaminated fluid and replace it with new fluid?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything that goes into a power steering fluid flush service, look at typical costs at mechanics and dealerships for different vehicles, and provide tips to save money.

With pricing factors ranging from fluid to labor fees, a flush can cost depending on your car’s make and model and location. Knowing when it’s time to flush, what’s involved, and the costs allows you to budget accordingly and ensure your steering system stays in peak condition.

How Much Does Power Steering Fluid Flush Cost?

The total cost for a complete power steering flush is typically $50 to $300, with the average repair costing $100 to $200.The parts and fluid for a power steering flush generally range from $10 to $50, while labor costs at most repair shops run $40 to $250.

Average costs by car type include:

• Basic vehicles – $50 to $150
• Standard trucks/SUVs – $90 to $180
• Luxury cars – $150 to $250
• High-end imports – $250 to $350
• Exotics/race cars – $300+

For most vehicles, average cost is $100 to $200

At a dealership or specialty European shop, you’ll often pay $200 to $300+. At quick lube chains, costs stay on the lower end, around $50 to $150.

DIY flushes using a fluid exchange machine run $30 to $120 for supplies if done properly. But DIY is not always advised, as improperly flushing the system can cause damage.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the average cost for a power steering fluid flush ranges from $172 to $204. This estimate can be influenced by the type of fluid required for the vehicle, as some vehicles may need specific types of fluid that can be more expensive.

Another source, Jerry, reports that the average cost for a power steering fluid service is between $111 and $178. They break down the costs, indicating that parts typically average around $29, while labor costs can be about $118. This service usually takes about an hour to complete.

Drive Accord shares anecdotal experiences from users, with one individual being quoted $115 for a power steering fluid flush. Another user mentioned a dealership charging around $180 for the same service, indicating that prices can vary significantly depending on the service provider.

In a more informal discussion, Reddit users have reported quotes for power steering fluid flushes ranging from $100 to $200. One user specifically mentioned being quoted $200, which others deemed excessive for a fluid change.

What is a Power Steering Fluid Flush?

A power steering fluid flush is a maintenance service to completely replace old, degraded power steering fluid with new fluid. It involves:

• Draining the entire steering system, including hoses, gear, and reservoir
• Refilling the system with fresh, clean power steering fluid
• Running the system to circulate the new fluid through the components
• Repeating drain and refill until old fluid is fully flushed out

Thoroughly flushing the whole system removes dirt, condensation, metal shavings, and deposits that accumulate over time. This helps extend the life of the steering pump, gear, rack, and other internal components.

Power Steering Fluid is Important

Power steering fluid serves several crucial functions:

• Provides hydraulic pressure to operate power assist
• Lubricates internal components like the rack, pump, and hoses
• Protects metal parts from wear, rust, and corrosion
• Absorbs heat to prevent overheating damage

Contaminated or insufficient fluid can lead to stiff, jerky steering and reduced assist from the failing pump. Regular fluid flushes are vital maintenance for the safe operation and longevity of the steering system.

You might also like our articles about the cost of coolant replacement, a power steering pump, or radiator flush for your car.

Know When It’s Time for a Flush

Signs that the power steering fluid in your vehicle needs to be replaced include:

• Increased effort when turning the wheel
• Strange noises like groans or whining
• Leaking fluid around the pump or gear
• Shaking, vibrating, or jumping steering wheel
• Uneven or inconsistent steering feel

Most manufacturers recommend a complete fluid flush approximately every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. But harsh driving conditions like frequent off-roading may require draining old fluid and refilling more frequently, like every 15,000 miles.

The Power Steering System

To fully understand the importance of routine fluid flushes, it helps to grasp how the key components of the power steering system work together:

Power Steering Pump

The power steering pump is driven by the serpentine belt. It pressurizes the fluid and pushes it through the steering gear and hoses when the wheel is turned. A failing pump will make noise, leak, or provide reduced assist.

Steering Gear

This mechanical assembly directly turns the wheels left or right when the steering wheel is rotated. The rack pistons slide left or right within the gear, providing motion transfer.

High-Pressure Hoses

These thick hoses route pressurized power steering fluid between the pump, gear assembly, and fluid reservoir. Leaks most often occur at hose connections.

Fluid Reservoir

The reservoir holds the steering fluid, allowing inspection of the fluid level. It connects to the pump via a low-pressure return hose. Proper levels in the reservoir are essential.

Clean fluid is crucial for these components to operate smoothly, safely steer the vehicle, and prevent premature wear.

Factors That Impact Flush Costs

The total invoice cost for a power steering fluid flush depends primarily on:

Fluid Cost

• OEM-grade fluid – $15 to $50
• Aftermarket fluid – $8 to $30

Higher-end synthetic or OEM-spec fluids cost more but meet manufacturer specifications to avoid damage.

Labor Time and Shop Fees

• Dealership – $100 to $250
• Local repair shop – $60 to $150
• Quick lube shops – $40 to $100

Shop labor rates, vehicle complexity, and service speed impact rates. More advanced systems take longer. Diagnosing other issues also adds labor time.

Additional Repairs

• Leaks, pump, other damage – $200 to $2000+

If flushing uncovers deeper problems, costs stack up quickly for parts and expanded labor.

Total flush costs: $50 to $300+, averaging $100 to $200

Now let’s examine average pricing in more detail.

How to Save Money

While regular flushes are important, here are some ways to save:

Use coupons – Chains like Firestone, Midas, and Jiffy Lube often offer coupons on their websites.

Join rewards programs – Signing up for repair shop loyalty programs can unlock discounts.

Ask about fluid flush promotions – Some shops provide seasonal specials on these services.

Compare quotes – Get price estimates from multiple repair shops in your area to find the best deal.

Use quality aftermarket fluids – Opt for more affordable fluid brands that still meet manufacturer standards to reduce supply costs.

Do preventative maintenance – Change fluid at recommended intervals to prevent expensive failures of steering components.

Additional Repair Costs

If your power steering system already has problems, expect added repair bills:

• Power steering pump – $350-$750 parts + $150-$300 labor
• Steering rack – $500-$1000 parts + $300-$600 labor
• Leaking hoses – $50-$150 parts + $75-$200 labor

Regular fluid flushes help extend the life of these expensive steering components.

Final Words

Spending $50 to $300 periodically to flush the system provides tremendous value by:

• Extending the service life of the full steering system
• Preventing costly repairs or replacements
• Ensuring smooth, safe, consistent steering response

Considering repairs can easily exceed $1000, investing in regular fluid exchanges helps save thousands over your vehicle’s lifespan. Don’t wait until you notice steering problems. Stay proactive with this vital maintenance!

Keep your steering system running safely with periodic fluid flushes. Watch for promotions and preventative maintenance helps avoid major repairs!

Answers to Common Questions

How do you know when you need a power steering flush?

Signs include stiff steering, difficulty turning, strange noises, vibration, leaking fluid, grinding pump. Most manufacturers recommend flushing around every 30,000 miles.

How important is a power steering flush?

Yes, it’s very important preventative maintenance. Flushing the system preserves your steering components by removing contaminated fluid. It ensures smooth, quiet steering.

When to replace power steering fluid?

In most vehicles, it’s recommended to replace power steering fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-3 years. More frequent flushes may be needed if experiencing issues or leaks. Follow your owner’s manual intervals.