When your steering and suspension system starts to sound like this, it’s time to take a look at your rack and pinion. While these parts might seem insignificant, they’re actually quite intricate. Over time, tons of components wear out and require replacement. Unfortunately, these parts are also expensive, and you’re probably wondering if you should just replace them or wait for the problem to get worse.
Symptoms of a bad rack and pinion
A broken rack and pinion can cause your car to make strange noises. You may notice a red puddle of power steering fluid or a burnt smell. You may also notice the steering wheel becomes loose or wanders. If any of these symptoms are present, you should have your vehicle checked by a mechanic. A broken rack and pinion will cost between $400 and $700 to replace.
When this part fails, your car may lose its steering ability. This can be dangerous and make it difficult to control your car. It can also be affected by a lack of steering fluid or heat buildup. If you notice a loud grinding sound, you may want to take your vehicle to a mechanic who is ASE certified. The following are the symptoms of a bad rack and pinion.
Causes of a bad rack and pinion
A faulty rack and pinion can cause your car’s steering to become loose or unresponsive, and you might even lose control of your car. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to have your steering checked out. Besides making noises, your car may also be unresponsive to inputs from the steering wheel, causing you to swerve even when on a straight road.
Loud clunks originating from the steering rack are indicative of faulty steering struts or ball joints. If you hear these noises when you turn the wheel, this could be an indication of a faulty rack and pinion. If you hear these noises repeatedly while driving, the rack and pinion are the likely culprit. But diagnosing a bad rack and pinion based on noise can be tricky.
Repairing a bad rack and pinion
A noisy steering wheel is a sure sign of a problem with your rack and pinion. This problem can lead to uneven tire wear on both the inside and outside of the car. You can test the rack and pinion on your own by turning the steering wheel while the engine is running. You can also replace the rack and pinion in your own garage. If you suspect a bad rack and pinion, take it to a mechanic as soon as possible.
While you can repair a bad rack and pinion, you should seek professional help if you do not have mechanical experience. To properly repair this component, you will need the proper tools and expertise. The steering rack is the main part that converts the rotation of your steering wheel into angular turning. Luckily, it is fairly easy to replace it yourself. However, you should be aware of the dangers of repairing a bad rack and pinion.
Cost of repairing a bad rack and pinion
Replacing the rack and pinion on a car can be expensive, and the expense will vary widely, depending on the vehicle model and mechanic’s hourly rate. You should always get multiple estimates before making a decision about the repair, however. In addition to getting multiple estimates, try to find coupons for the parts or labor you need. This way, you can ensure that you are getting the best deal possible for replacing the rack and pinion.
Depending on the car model, repairing the rack and pinion may cost more than a simple oil change. A faulty rack and pinion can damage the fuel pump and steering system, making driving unsafe and potentially dangerous. You may also end up risking the safety of other drivers. Depending on the severity of the problem, the cost of the labor may range anywhere from $150 to $600.
