How much does it cost to replace the power steering belt?
A typical serpentine belt start at around $25 and goes up to $75 at most. If you know some car repair basics, you could change the belt yourself, and it may save you paying labor charges somewhere between $75 and $120. All together, you’re looking at around $100 to $195 to replace your serpentine belt.
Can you drive a car without the power steering belt?
As you can see, driving without a serpentine belt is not an option, at least not for very long. *Some cars have an electric water pump and/or electric assist steering. Driving your car for extended periods without power steering fluid can damage the pump. If a timing belt breaks, the engine will no longer work.
How to adjust and replace a power steering drive belt?
Ease the belt onto the pulley. Never try to lever off the old belt, you may damage the pulley. Slacken the adjuster and pivot bolts, and push the pump inwards by the cast front plate until the belt is slack enough to ease off. Do not push against any other part of the pump or pipework, or you may damage it. Remove the old belt.
Can a bad belt cause a power steering failure?
If you think your power steering failure is a result of a bad belt, here are some steps to help you through the replacement process. To successfully replace a power steering belt, getting the right type of belt is crucial.
Where is the power steering pulley located on a car?
Lever against the cast front end of the pump body, just behind the drive-belt pulley — not against any other part of the body or pipework, which are easily damaged. Rest the other end of the lever against a sturdy part of the pump mounting bracket on the engine.
How often should I check my power steering belt?
Inspect the belt, along with the rest of the power-steering system (See Checking power-assisted steering ), at least every six months; at 6,000 miles or 10,000 km; at the intervals recommended in the car handbook; and, of course, at any time you suspect that it may be slipping.