Steering Rack Repair
Also called steering gear box repair
The steering rack converts the turning of the wheel into side-to-side movement at the wheels. On power steering cars it also carries the hydraulic seals that make the steering light. Racks leak fluid, wear at the centre so there is free play, and knock over bumps. Repair may mean a seal kit and adjustment, or a replacement unit where the bar is worn. Alignment afterwards is required in every case.
Signs you need this
- Free play at the steering wheel before the wheels move
- Knock from the centre of the car over bumps
- Power steering fluid level dropping and wet rack boots
- Steering heavy in one direction only
- Whining from the pump that worsens as fluid is lost
Not all of these have to be present, and one of them on its own can mean something else entirely. That is what the diagnosis is for.
What the job includes
- Play measurement at the steering wheel and at the rack itself
- Leak inspection at both rack boots and the pinion seal
- Rack removal, seal kit overhaul or replacement unit
- New rack boots and clips
- Power steering system flushed and bled after refitting
- Wheel alignment after the work
How we do it
Measure the play
Movement is checked at the wheel and at the rack so worn tie rods are not mistaken for rack wear.
Trace the leak
Boots are opened and the pinion area inspected, since fluid trapped in a boot points to failed internal seals.
Overhaul or replace
A rack with a sound bar is rebuilt with a seal kit; a worn or scored unit is replaced.
Bleed and align
The hydraulic system is flushed and bled of air, then wheel alignment is carried out before handover.
How we work
The same on every job, which is why we can write it down.
Diagnosis before quote
We find the fault first. A price given over the phone for a noise nobody has heard is a guess.
The price is agreed first
You approve the work and the cost before a spanner is picked up. Extra work means another call.
Parts you can check
We tell you whether a part is genuine, OEM, aftermarket or used, and what each one costs.
Old parts returned
Ask and we will hand back whatever we replaced. It is the simplest proof that the job was done.
Book steering rack repair
Fill this in and a person will call you back to confirm the time and the price. Only your name and one way to reach you are required.
You send this
Takes a minute. No payment, no obligation.
We call you
To confirm the car, the time and the location.
Tell us the car and the symptom
We will arrange a mechanic at your location, or a slot at the nearest workshop. No payment until the price is agreed.