Dodge Charger (2012-2020) Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Guide
Understanding the complex and costly power steering system in your V6 or 5.7L V8 Charger.
- Confirm your engine is a 3.6L or 5.7L; this guide is for the Electro-Hydraulic (EHPS) pump, not the SRT/Hellcat pump.
- A whining noise or fluid leak from the passenger side are early warnings; address them before the pump fails completely.
- The total replacement cost is high, so a quality aftermarket part can offer significant savings over OEM.
- After installation, you must use MS-11655 fluid and bleed all air from the system to prevent damaging the new pump.
Is Your Charger's Power Steering Pump Failing?
A failing power steering pump in the 2012-2020 Dodge Charger isn't just an inconvenience; it can be a serious safety concern. The most common signs of failure are directly related to steering effort and noise. You might hear a distinct whining or groaning sound that gets louder when you turn the wheel. Another key symptom is suddenly finding the steering wheel very difficult to turn, especially at low speeds in parking lots. Because this is a hydraulic system, fluid leaks are also a major warning sign. Look for drips of clear or golden fluid under the front passenger side of the car.
🎬 Watch: Diagnosing common EHPS pump electrical and mechanical failures.System-Specific Failures
The Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) pump used on 3.6L and 5.7L Chargers has a known weak point: the O-ring seal where the fluid reservoir attaches to the pump. This seal can fail, causing a slow leak that eventually drains the system. Running the pump dry can cause it to burn out and may even send metal fragments into the steering rack, leading to a much more expensive repair.
🎬 See this walkthrough on how to remove the pump.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Pump
When replacing the EHPS pump, you have options beyond the expensive dealership part. New aftermarket pumps are a common choice. The quality of these parts can vary, so it's important to understand what you're buying.
- OEM (Mopar): This is the original part from the manufacturer. It guarantees a perfect fit and original quality but comes at the highest price, often over $1,000.
- New Aftermarket (e.g., Atlantic Automotive Enterprise): Brands like AAE specialize in steering components and often produce new parts designed to meet or exceed original specifications. They may even engineer fixes for known OEM flaws. However, customer experiences can be mixed, with some reporting issues with quality control on aftermarket parts in general.
- Remanufactured (e.g., BBB Industries): These are original OEM pump cores that have been rebuilt with new seals and tested. Brands like BBB Industries are widely available. While they can offer good value, the quality can be inconsistent. Some users report success, while others have experienced premature failures or received poorly rebuilt units.
Pro Tip: Before ordering, you must confirm your engine size. The EHPS pump for the 3.6L/5.7L engines is completely different from the belt-driven hydraulic pump used on the 6.2L/6.4L SRT and Hellcat engines. They are not interchangeable.
Cost of Replacing a Dodge Charger Power Steering Pump
Replacing the EHPS pump is a significant expense. The part itself is costly due to its complexity. Here is a general breakdown of what to expect.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) Part | $910 - $1,542 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $691 - $886 |
| Remanufactured Part | $330 - $650 |
| Shop Labor | $251 - $369 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $1,161 - $1,910+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a recall on the 2012-2020 Charger power steering pump?
There is no direct recall for the pump itself. However, NHTSA recall 17V-435 (manufacturer code T36) was issued for some 2011-2014 Chargers because the high electrical draw from the EHPS pump could cause the alternator to fail, leading to a vehicle stall. This highlights the electrical demands of the system.
Can I just replace the leaking reservoir seal?
Yes, if the leak is caught very early and the pump has not been run dry or started making noise, it is possible to just replace the O-ring seals. However, if the pump has been whining or the steering has become stiff, the internal components have likely already been damaged, and a full pump replacement is necessary to ensure a lasting repair.
Do I need a special fluid for the EHPS pump?
Yes, using the correct fluid is critical. The system requires a specific fluid that meets Mopar specification MS-11655. Using standard power steering fluid can damage the electric pump and other components.
What is the most common mistake when replacing this pump?
Aside from ordering the wrong part for your engine, the most common mistake is failing to properly bleed the air out of the system after installation. Air trapped in the lines will cause the new pump to be noisy and can lead to premature failure. The system must be bled by turning the steering wheel from lock to lock several times with the engine running until the noise disappears.
🎬 Watch: How to correctly fill and bleed the steering system.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68059524AE 5181854AA RL181854AA 68059525AF 68059525AL 68059525AE
System Type: Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS). Location: Under front passenger side fender/bumper. Fluid Type: MS-11655 specification.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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