I've got a 2007 Pilot LX 2wd that has a bad bearing type noise coming from the power steering pump. There's no air in the fluid and definitely isn't the seal/O-ring failure that is so well documented on the web. I've looked into the costs of purchasing a new shaft bearing and seal kit for the PS pump and the total is ~$60 for the parts. It will likely take me a couple of hours to partially rebuild the PS pump, but I'm considering just buying an aftermarket unit from O'reilly for ~130$ and saving the time.

Can anyone comment on the reliability of these aftermarket/non-honda PS pump units?

Also, I'm concerned that driving with a failing bearing over the last few months could possibly have damaged other elements of the pump, jeopardizing the success of a rebuild attempt.

Thanks in advance for any insights!