Book a steering rack repair
The steering rack translates your steering wheel movements into the direction your wheels turn. If you’re experiencing stiff steering or fluid leaks, it’s time for a steering rack repair at an RAC Approved Garage.
Book a diagnostic
A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.
Content Guide
Introduction
Taking care of your car’s steering system is key to safe and enjoyable driving. The steering rack helps you steer smoothly and accurately, but just like all car parts, it can have issues over time that might need fixing or replacing. You should always keep an eye on it to make sure you’re always driving with confidence.
What is a steering rack?
The steering rack is a key part of your car’s steering system. It turns the movement of the steering wheel into the turning of your wheels. These are its important parts:
- Rack: A metal bar with teeth that works with a gear to help steer.
- Pinion gear: This gear moves the rack left or right when you turn the steering wheel.
- Power assist components: In cars with power steering, extra help from hydraulic or electric systems makes steering easier.
What causes steering rack damage?
Several things can cause steering rack damage:
- Wear and tear: Just like anything that gets used a lot, parts can wear out over time.
- Contaminants: Dirt and debris can enter the system and cause damage.
- Lack of maintenance: Skipping regular check-ups can lead to issues.
- Accidents: Crashes or bumps can damage the steering rack.
What are bad steering rack symptoms?
These are the signs of a failing steering rack:
- Hard to steer: It takes more effort to turn the steering wheel.
- Noises: Clunking or grinding sounds when turning.
- Fluid leaks: Hydraulic fluid leaking from the steering system.
- Loose steering: Steering wheel feels too loose or wobbly.
- Uneven tyre wear: Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tyre wear.
How is the steering rack repaired?
Here’s how a steering rack gets repaired:
- Diagnosis: The mechanic checks out what’s wrong.
- Disassembly: They remove the damaged steering rack from the car.
- Repair or replacement: They fix or replace the broken parts.
- Reassembly: They put the repaired or new steering rack back in.
- Alignment: They make sure your wheels are properly aligned.
Different providers might do things a bit differently, so it’s a good idea to ask your mechanic what’s included in their quote.
Steering rack replacement cost
The cost of replacing a steering rack can vary based on several factors:
- Vehicle make and model: Different cars have various parts and labour costs.
- Type of steering rack: Power steering racks can be more expensive than manual ones.
- Labour rates: Costs vary by location and service provider.
Since prices can differ, it’s best to ask your mechanic for a quote. Keeping your steering rack in good shape is key to safe driving, so regular maintenance and quick repairs can help you avoid bigger problems.
Frequently Asked Questions on steering rack repair
The price depends on your vehicle and how serious the damage is.
Yes, steering racks can often be repaired if the damage isn’t too severe. But sometimes, replacing the steering rack might be cheaper in the long run.
Not really. Driving with a damaged steering rack is risky and can lead to steering problems or accidents. It’s best to get it fixed as soon as you can.
Damage can happen due to wear and tear, dirt, poor maintenance, or accidents.
Watch out for hard steering, strange noises when you turn, fluid leaks, loose steering, and uneven tyre wear.
Repairing a steering rack usually involves checking the problem, taking it apart, fixing or replacing parts, putting it back together, and aligning it properly.
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