Steering pump

Hi there,

My wife have Mercedes B. S420 95. Every now and then it starts making those noises when steering< especially in the mornings>, then i had to add alitlle more p.s.fluid. SHe was told the MB shop would charge $1500 to fix it, i guess they mean to replace the pump or seal, i dont know. Is'nt that alot for that?. I mean,... who the hell would charge so much, for that money you get get a whole used engine of another non mercedes car. How much do you guys thing they really charge, fairly and is it good to trust the job to non meredes mechanic( for steering pump replacement)? thanx for answers.
Alex