Steering Gearbox Replacement Cost Estimate
Concerned about potentially overpaying for your steering rack/gearbox replacement? Use MyMechanic to obtain a fair cost estimate for your steering rack/gearbox replacement.
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How much does it cost to replace a steering gearbox?
The total cost for a steering gearbox replacement will vary based on the car and location. Typically, it includes expenses for replacement parts and the mechanic's labor. Keep in mind that your car will require an alignment after the gearbox replacement, which will add to the total time needed for the job.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do I need for my steering gearbox replacement, and how much do those parts cost?
It's advisable to refer to your vehicle repair guide or owner's manual for model-specific details. However, here's a general outline of what you might require:
Steering gearbox:The main component that requires replacement is the gearbox itself. Typically, a new one can vary in cost.
Power steering fluid:You'll need to refill the power steering system with hydraulic fluid after replacing the gearbox. Bottles of power steering fluid can vary in cost.
Tie rod ends:You may need to replace the tie rods when you replace the gearbox, especially if your car uses a rack and pinion steering system. Tie rods can vary in cost.
Pitman arm:If your vehicle utilizes a conventional power steering system, you may need to replace the Pitman arm alongside the gearbox replacement. The cost of a new Pitman arm can vary.
You can purchase steering rack/gearbox parts for your common car from auto parts stores, as well as online retailers. When it comes to tie rod ends and pitman arms, keep in mind that the best parts for your steering rack/gearbox will vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
For most auto repair jobs, using parts from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is often the preferred choice, particularly for newer vehicles.
Parts from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) are engineered by your vehicle’s maker to precisely fit your car’s make and model. They typically come with a robust warranty and are crafted using top-grade materials. However, the downside of OEM parts is their higher cost.
Aftermarket parts are manufactured by third-party companies and are compatible with a wider array of vehicles. They often come at a lower price point compared to OEM parts but are available in budget, premium, and performance varieties. Aftermarket parts are a suitable option for older vehicles, individuals seeking to economize on repair expenses, and enthusiasts aiming to enhance their vehicles.
You can purchase OEM parts from your local dealership or through an authorized parts retailer. OEM parts are available from various auto parts stores and online retailers.
Where can I get my steering gearbox replaced?
Finding a quality and trustworthy repair shop can be challenging. Fortunately, you can use MyMechanic to compare hourly rates and repair estimates from more than 2,500 U.S. shops.
MyMechanic uses accurate hourly rates from local shops to generate fair price estimates. You can use MyMechanic to plan for maintenance work, discover diagnostic charges, and find the shops near you with the best customer reviews.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How will a mechanic replace my steering gearbox?
The replacement process will vary substantially depending on the vehicle and the type of steering system. However, here are the general steps a mechanic will typically follow to replace your steering gearbox:
- Lift the car off the ground and support it with jack stands or a hydraulic lift
- Remove any skid plates
- Remove necessary components—depending on the vehicle and the type of steering gear, you may have to remove part of the subframe, exhaust components, the front wheels, inner and outer tie rods, the sway bar(s), ball joints, steering input shaft or linkage, and the Pitman arm (note that not all of these parts will be present on every vehicle)
- Position a drain pan underneath the gearbox
- Disconnect the power steering pressure and return lines from the power steering rack and pinion or gearbox
- Take out any brackets or mounting hardware
- Extract the old gearbox or rack and pinion
- Remove any bushings from the mounts as necessary
- Clean the mounting surfaces/brackets
- Install new bushings
- Place the new gearbox or rack and pinion into position
- Reinstall the brackets and mounting hardware
- Reconnect the hydraulic power steering lines
- Connect the gearbox to the input shaft as appropriate
- Tighten all mounting bolts to the specified torque
- Reinstall all components that were removed to access the gearbox
- Lower the car
- Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque
- Refill the power steering system with clean fluid and bleed any air from the system
- Conduct a wheel alignment
- Drive the car for a test run covering a distance of 10 miles
What happens if I don’t replace my power steering pump pulley?
If you have a faulty power steering pump pulley and don’t replace it, you may encounter the following issues:
- Loss of power steering functionality:A faulty power steering pulley can result in a loss of power steering assistance. This may cause increasingly difficult steering and potentially lead to a loss of vehicle control.
- Noisy operation:A worn-out pulley can result in noises such as whining, squealing, or rattling sounds.
- Steering system damage: A defective pulley can place additional stress on other power steering system components. This can result in premature wear and tear, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Drive belt damage: A malfunctioning pulley is likely to damage the serpentine belt. A severely damaged belt is prone to breaking during operation. This can result in further damage to the power steering pump and interrupt power to other accessories such as the alternator.
- Pulley separation: A severely worn or malfunctioning pulley can break or detach from the pump. This can result in a sudden loss of power steering and create extremely hazardous situations. Furthermore, if the pulley breaks during operation, it can inflict serious damage to the engine and crankshaft.
Keep in mind that the steps outlined above are generalized and intended to offer a basic understanding of the process. The actual replacement procedure will vary significantly depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle.
What happens if I don’t replace my steering gearbox?
If you neglect a faulty steering gearbox and opt not to replace it, you may encounter the following issues:
- Steering problems:A faulty gearbox can result in increased difficulty when turning your steering wheel. You may observe that the steering feels loose, stiff, or unresponsive. If left unaddressed, the problem could escalate to the point where you lose power-assisted steering entirely, increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle.
- Wear on other components:A defective gearbox can place added strain on other components, such as the tie rods, ball joints, and control arms. This can accelerate wear and necessitate costlier repairs.
- Safety issues:Failure to address a faulty gearbox over time can result in a loss of power steering functionality. This compromises the vehicle's safety, heightening the risk of accidents and necessitating expensive repairs.
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What is a steering gearbox?
A steering gearbox plays a vital role in your car’s power steering system. Its primary function is to convert the rotational movement of your steering wheel into the lateral movement of your front tires. Within the gearbox are intricate gear systems that magnify the driver’s input and transmit it to the tie rods, which in turn maneuver the wheels from side to side.
Modern vehicles typically feature two types of steering gearboxes.
One of the most prevalent types of gearboxes in modern vehicles is the power steering rack and pinion. In this system, a pinion gear rotates on a rack. When you turn the wheel, the pinion gear shifts, prompting the rack to move laterally. This motion is then transmitted to the tie rods, which link to the steering knuckles and manipulate the wheels.
Another type of gearbox is the recirculating ball system. This gearbox is utilized in conventional power steering systems, prevalent in older cars and some modern off-road and heavy-duty vehicles. These gearboxes are notably more intricate than rack and pinion systems, employing a worm gear and ball bearings to convey the driver’s input to a Pitman arm.
When should I replace the steering gearbox on my car?
Steering gearboxes are typically engineered to endure for the lifespan of a car. However, despite their durability, they can experience wear and tear over time, eventually requiring replacement once signs of failure become apparent.
Common indicators of a failing steering gearbox include the following:
- A very stiff steering wheel:One of the primary functions of the steering gear is to facilitate easier turning of the steering wheel. When the gearbox starts to malfunction, it may lose this capability. If you notice that your steering wheel feels exceptionally stiff, it could be indicative of a failing gearbox.
- Power steering fluid leaks:Numerous issues within the power steering system can result in a fluid leak. However, once power steering fluid starts leaking, there's a risk of gearbox damage. Even if the leak originates from another source, it's advisable to have a gearbox inspection if you observe red or reddish-brown puddles beneath your car.
- Strange noises when steering: A malfunctioning gearbox may produce grinding or clunking noises, often attributed to insufficient fluid or internal damage.
- A burning oil smell: If your gearbox is faulty and starts to overheat, you might detect a potent burning oil odor. If you observe this issue, it's crucial to stop your car immediately and seek assistance.
Note: The mentioned symptoms may also suggest other issues, such as a malfunctioning power steering pump or a damaged steering column. To precisely diagnose your car's problem, it's recommended to seek a steering system inspection from a certified mechanic.
How often should I replace my steering gearbox?
Steering gearboxes are engineered to endure for the lifespan of the vehicle. Consequently, there isn't a set replacement interval for them. However, they are susceptible to wear and tear and may degrade over time.
You'll typically only require a replacement for your steering gearbox if it malfunctions. Key indicators of a faulty gearbox include excessively stiff or loose steering, power steering fluid leaks, and grinding noises when turning the wheel.
Can I replace my steering gearbox myself?
Replacing a steering gearbox is a relatively advanced repair task. It's likely beyond the capabilities of most automotive novices and even intermediate home mechanics.
If you're a proficient hobbyist with ample experience and a diverse array of tools at your disposal, you might be able to tackle the task. However, if you feel uneasy about working with the power steering system or lack access to the necessary tools, it's strongly advised to enlist the services of a professional mechanic.
FAQs
It's advisable to avoid driving with a faulty steering gearbox if possible. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning gearbox can lead to increased damage to your car and steering system over time. Not only may it require costly repairs, but driving without a functional gearbox is hazardous and heightens the risk of accidents.
Several factors can contribute to the failure of a steering gearbox, including the following:
- Wear and tear
- Lack of lubrication
- Lack of maintenance
- Contamination
- Driving habits
- Environmental conditions
- Impacts or accidents
- Manufacturer defects
- Age
The lifespan of a steering gearbox can fluctuate depending on numerous factors, such as your driving habits, the type of gearbox, and your environment. Although gearboxes are engineered to endure for the vehicle's lifetime, they may deteriorate over time. Generally, you can anticipate your steering gearbox to last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles.
