Question2001 Pontiac Grand Am SE-1 Manual Transmission
At about 72000 miles my power steering leeked fluid once and I refilled it. At about 74000 miles the power steering stopped working even after the fluid was replaced.
The mechanic told me that the whole power steering needs to be replaced: pump, rack, hose etc and it costs about $1500 to fix.
I would like to drive the car as is and have another mechanic give an estimate because I don't believe that absolutely ALL the parts need replacement.
My question is :
Can I damage the car by driving it without power steering and what is the damage?
The steering is easier at higher speeds: does this rule out the belt on the pump to be one of the problems?
How can I rule out the different components by trying out what still works and what doesn't?
Thank you for your time.
Best Regards
AnswerHi,Flora
The major problem you have is that the pump itself has failed,though i dont know what caused the leaking fluid,i can only assume that the shaft seal on the pump was leaking,i would stick to only replacing the pump at this time,have the rest of the steering componants cleaned of fluid,and recheck for any leakage from either the lines or the steering gear,i went ahead and looked up labor time to install the pump, it is 1.2 hrs,at about 90-100 dollars flat rate that would be about 120 dollars in labor plus what the pump sells for,i estimate a rebuild pump is about 60-120 dollars,so max would be about 200-250 dollars for a pump to be replaced.
Get a second opinion,and check into the pontiac dealers in your area,if they are a goodwrench service plus dealer,the pump is warrantied for the life of the car,plus you know the job will be done right the first time.
You can drive the car as long as your able to steer correctly and it wont hinder your safety,the pump is already worn,or you can add some fluid in the mean time to get you there,but stick to only replacing the pump at this time,if you need more help let me know.Thanks
ED
