Power Steering System Leak Inspection Costs
Visual Inspection of Power Steering Components
Basic inspection cost: $62.50 (30 minutes labor)
Includes checking the power steering pump, hoses, rack and pinion, and other visible components for signs of leaks or damage.
Pressure Test of Power Steering System
Cost: $125-$187.50 (1-1.5 hours labor)
Includes connecting pressure testing equipment to identify exact location and severity of leaks. Additional costs may apply if specialized adapters are needed.
UV Dye Test for Power Steering Leaks
Cost: $125-$156.25 (1-1.25 hours labor)
Includes adding UV dye to the system and using specialized UV light to trace leak locations. Cost of dye typically included.
Comprehensive System Diagnosis
Cost: $187.50-$250 (1.5-2 hours labor)
Includes complete system evaluation using multiple testing methods, detailed inspection of all components, and written report of findings.
Please Note:
- These prices reflect diagnostic services only
- Actual repair costs will be additional
- Parts costs are not included in these estimates
- Some vehicles may require additional time due to accessibility issues
Common Additional Repairs:
- Power steering hose replacement: $125-$250 plus parts
- Pump replacement: $250-$375 plus parts
- Rack and pinion replacement: $500-$750 plus parts
Power Steering System Leak Inspection and Repair Procedures
1. Power Steering Pump Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Verify leak location at pump housing or shaft seal
- Remove serpentine/drive belt
- Disconnect pressure and return lines from pump
- Remove mounting bolts and pump assembly
- Replace faulty seals or entire pump unit if necessary
- Install new pump with new mounting gaskets
- Reconnect lines with new O-rings
- Reinstall belt with proper tension
- Fill system with new power steering fluid
- Bleed air from system
2. Power Steering Hose Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Identify exact location of hose leak
- Drain power steering fluid
- Remove hose clamps or fittings
- Replace damaged hose with OEM equivalent
- Secure new hose with proper clamps/fittings
- Refill system with fresh fluid
- Start engine and check for proper operation
- Inspect for any new leaks
3. Rack and Pinion Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Raise vehicle on lift
- Remove tie rod ends
- Disconnect power steering lines
- Remove rack mounting bolts
- Remove entire rack and pinion assembly
- Replace seals or entire rack assembly
- Install new unit with new mounting hardware
- Reconnect steering components
- Refill system with fresh fluid
- Perform wheel alignment
4. Power Steering Reservoir Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Drain remaining fluid
- Remove reservoir mounting brackets
- Disconnect inlet and outlet lines
- Replace reservoir or repair crack/damage
- Install new seals on connections
- Secure mounting brackets
- Refill with new fluid
- Check for proper operation
Important Notes:
- Always use manufacturer-recommended power steering fluid
- Properly bleed air from system after any repair
- Test steering operation before returning vehicle to service
- Perform follow-up inspection after repair to ensure no new leaks
Note: Repair procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult manufacturer specifications for detailed instructions specific to your vehicle.
Power Steering System Leak Inspection
A Power Steering System Leak Inspection is a comprehensive examination of your vehicle's power steering components to identify any fluid leaks or potential issues that could lead to steering problems. This inspection is crucial for maintaining safe and effective vehicle control.
What Does the Inspection Include
During a Power Steering System Leak Inspection, our certified technicians will:
- Visual Inspection:Check all power steering components for visible signs of leaks, including the pump, hoses, and steering gear box
- Fluid Level Check:Verify the power steering fluid level and condition
- Component Assessment:Examine power steering belts, hoses, and connections for wear or damage
- System Performance Test:Evaluate the overall performance of the power steering system while the engine is running
Why It's Important
Regular power steering leak inspections help:
- Prevent unexpected steering failure
- Maintain proper steering control
- Avoid costly repairs from neglected maintenance
- Ensure safe vehicle operation
Warning Signs to Watch For:
- Whining noise when turning the steering wheel
- Stiff or difficult steering
- Visible fluid spots under your vehicle
- Low power steering fluid levels
Regular power steering system leak inspections are recommended every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or whenever you notice any steering abnormalities.
Common Symptoms and Signs of Power Steering System Leaks
Power Steering System Leak Inspections
Rack and Pinion Seals
Signs of Failure:
- Power steering fluid spots under the center of vehicle
- Groaning noise when turning the wheel
- Stiff steering, especially at low speeds
- Visible fluid on the steering rack boots
Service Schedule: Inspect every 30,000 miles or when symptoms occur
Power Steering Pump
Signs of Failure:
- Whining noise that increases with engine speed
- Fluid leaks at pump shaft seal
- Delayed or jerky steering response
- Low fluid levels despite regular filling
Service Schedule: Inspect every 50,000 miles or during routine maintenance
Power Steering Hoses
Signs of Failure:
- Visible cracks or bulges in hoses
- Fluid leaks at hose connections
- Squealing noise during steering
- Wet or oily hoses
Service Schedule: Inspect every 15,000 miles or during oil changes
Power Steering Reservoir
Signs of Failure:
- Visible cracks in reservoir
- Fluid leaks around cap or seams
- Contaminated or discolored fluid
- Consistently low fluid levels
Service Schedule: Check fluid level monthly and inspect reservoir during routine maintenance
Power Steering Belt
Signs of Failure:
- Squealing noise, especially during cold starts
- Visible cracks or wear on belt
- Belt glazing or shininess
- Loss of power steering assistance
Service Schedule: Inspect every 15,000 miles or during belt tension checks
Note: These service intervals are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules, as they may vary by make and model.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
