Well, they are charging you about 50% more for the part (1/4 of $500 is
$125) than you can get elsewhere. It is probably about $100 per hour for
labor, with bleeding the system after the pump is changed, that's around
3 or 4 hours, which doesn't seem unreasonable.

You should also check with local shops and see what they want for the
job. Changing a power steering pump isn't rocket physics. There's no
need for a dealer to the work. In fact, I would get a second opinion
from them to make sure it is a power steering pump problem before
getting the work done.

Have you checked to make sure there is enough fluid in the system?

Jeff

------------------------------

You need to tell us the model and mileage of the vehicle... What if it's
just your AC idler (like on the CR-V?) They get worse when cold and
there's a TSB about them at www.tegger.com.

'Curly'

In the several years I have been reading the two Honda
newsgroups, I do not think I have ever read of a PS pump
failing.

PS system problems that do happen typically are due to
failing to use genuine Honda PS fluid in the system. Has
anyone been adding non-Honda PS fluid to your Accord's PS
system? Have you inspected the system's reservoir to see
where the level is at? Do you see PS fluid on the ground
where the car is usually parked or around the underside of
the pump?

In the alternative, your Accord may simply have needed
either addition of a little PS fluid or a purge of air. Have
you had any maintenance done on your Accord that required
opening the PS system. For example, changing the Timing Belt
on some Hondas is easier if one removes the PS pump. I used
to do this with my 91 Civic until I found a way to keep from
removing it.

If the PS pump or other PS component fails, then the backup
is good old fashioned non-Power  steering. You will have to
apply more effort to turn the wheels.

A brand new OEM (= genuine Honda) pump for your Accord goes
for about $220. See OEM parts sites like
www.slhondaparts.com , under "Engine." Other PS parts are
under "Chassis." I'd seriously consider a pump from a
junkyard, after inspecting the pump and other components for
leaks. Look at the car and see if the  main reason it's in
the yard is a collision. That will tell you the pump is
likely fine.

If you have no confidence in your diagnosis abilities, I
would seek a second opinion.

it's highly likely they're trying to rip you - the noise symptoms are
classic for a loose belt.

honda pump failure is extremely rare.  and even then, it's usually seals
due to incorrect fluid use.  take this car to another shop [independent
honda repair specialist] and tell them you want the belts changed - that
should take care of everything.  and call around to check their
reputation too.