1996 Pontiac Firebird Power Steering Hose Replacement Cost

If a power steering hose has failed, you will likely notice leaking fluid under the hood or on the ground under the car. It the problem has affected the pump, it will typically make a whining or screeching noise, and it may be more difficult to turn the steering wheel.

When power steering parts fail, it almost always means a leak. But the amount of leaking fluid will determine if the vehicle can be driven. Small leaks will not prevent the car from being driven, but when the amount is too low to keep the pump full, it's best to get a tow to avoid damaging the fuel pump and steering gear.

For most vehicles, the power steering system will last well over 100,000 miles before any failures occur — as long as you follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. Keeping the power steering fluid fresh and the system free of contaminants is key. The system will eventually fail from normal wear and tear, but this should be well into the life of the vehicle.

Since most power steering issues will create the same symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose only one part without examining the whole system. When symptoms emerge, the power steering fluid is inspected and topped off, and the power steering pump belt is checked for wear. The system may need to be bled of air prior to diagnosis. Any leaks will become very obvious at that time. If the power steering pump has failed mechanically, it will usually make noise be evident from noise. The hoses can be tested with a pressure gauge.

The location of the steering hoses depends on whether your car has a steering box or rack-and-pinion style steering system. Otherwise, the replacement procedure is completely the same. Hoses are simply disconnected from both ends and the new hoses are attached. Then the power steering fluid will be topped off and bled of air. This process will be more difficult on certain cars that have several components in the way of the power steering hoses. And vehicles that use a hydraulic hydro boost system may have four hoses.

Don't use any product that claims to stop leaks in the power steering system. These products will eventually contaminate the power steering fluid, and build up inside components that are only designed for fluid. This can lead to failing power steering pumps and steering gears. Power steering components are subject to high pressure and heat. Using replacement parts that are built to meet or exceed OEM standards will help ensure their longevity.

Power steering hose replacement can be done as a DIY repair as long as you have the right tools — usually a torque wrench is needed.  But power steering hoses can be difficult to extract. In fact, some vehicles require removal of the power steering pump before the hose is removed. In these situations, it is better to trust a certified technician with the repair.