QuestionMechanic recommending possible power steering pump replacement. Can you ballpark what this might cost to replace (acknowledging that such figures may be subjective - just want to make sure the figure I receive passes the smell test).
BTW, symptoms leading to repair: noise when turning while parked or at slow speed; high pitched squeeling when car is turned on cold in a.m. (sounded like belt issue)
Thanks!
AnswerHi Ken,
If the belt was squeaking, it was probably due to the pump going bad and either spilling fluid on the belt/pulley or turning that hard that it is skipping and allowing the belt to slide over it when it stops causing the squeak. My book says 2.3 hours to replace that pump and bleed the lines. So if your mechanic charges $40/hour, figure the job should cost in the range of $92.00 plus parts.
Where I am we charge $72/hour but we are fully stocked with ASE certified technicians including two master technicians.
I could probably get you a good used power steering pump with a warranty for $70.00 which would include shipping to you also if you'd like to go that route, if not, no big deal, just offering.
So, used part installed here would cost you: $235.60 and we'd cut the cost of the part in half if you allow us to install it so it would actually turn out to be a $200.00 job out-the-door. So I'd guess anything less expensive than that should be a decent deal.
My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).
Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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Click here: http://www.ase.com/bluesealsearch/locator.php
