How Much Does a Replacement Steering Rack Cost?
According to our research, the average cost of having a steering rack replaced on a car in the UK can be anything from £640 to £1640. The cost can vary based on the make, model, and design of the car, the cost of replacement parts, and other factors.
Can I Replace a Steering Rack Myself?
Replacing a steering rack can be a challenging and difficult job, so it’s one that is usually best left to the mechanics unless you have the appropriate training or experience. Since the steering rack is such an important component of your car, this is only a job that you should attempt to carry out on your own if you are confident. You will need several tools including a jack and jack stands, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, a ratchet and socket set with extensions, a ball joint fork, a hammer, and a wire brush. The job also usually involves changing the power steering fluid and the automatic transmission fluid if applicable.
Other Factors That Might Impact a Steering Rack Replacement
The cost of replacing a power steering rack can vary greatly based on a lot of different factors. The make and model of your car, the garage or dealership that you choose to carry out the work, and your location in the UK can all have an impact on how much you can pay. Along with this, you should also be prepared for a potential situation where your mechanic finds further issues during the replacement such as defective, broken, or damaged steering components that will need to be replaced or repaired for the steering rack replacement to go smoothly.
How Much Do Steering Rack Replacement Parts Cost?
Prices for a new power steering rack can vary depending on the make and model of your car and what is recommended by the manufacturer. On average, you will expect to pay between £400 and £1000 for the materials needed. The price can vary depending on whether you choose refurbished or brand new.
What is the Labour Cost for Replacing a Steering Rack?
Steering rack replacement labour costs can vary across the UK based on the size and location of the garage or dealership you choose, the type of services that they offer, and the demand for the service locally. Our research revealed that you will pay between £240 and £640 for the labour depending on the hourly rate of the garage and how long the job takes. On average, the hourly rate charged for this job is £60-£80.
How Long Does it Take to Repair a Steering Rack?
How long you can expect to wait for your car to be ready after a steering rack replacement will again depend on several factors including the make and model of your car and the garage that you take it to. For the most part, a full steering rack replacement will usually take between four and eight hours to complete.
Can I Drive if the Steering Rack is Broken or Faulty?
While you may still be able to drive your car with a faulty or broken steering rack, this can impact your safety on the road and that of other road users. Steering rack problems or failure can make the car much harder to control, which can seriously increase your risk of an accident. Along with this, it can also cause further damage to other components in the steering system which can be costly to repair or replace, so it is recommended to visit a garage as soon as possible.
What Else Might Be Wrong if There are No Steering Rack Problems?
Some signs and symptoms of a steering rack problem are quite similar to other issues that might arise in the car’s steering system. If you are dealing with problems like knocking sounds, vibration, excessive play or the car veering to one side, then this could be due to one of several potential problems. This could include issues with the brake pads or discs, loose or worn ball joints, misaligned suspension, and other issues. A mechanic can diagnose the issue.
What Are Some Signs a Steering Rack is Faulty or Broken?
If your car’s steering rack is faulty or has failed, you will notice several signs including a cracking or hammering noise when you steer, both when driving and when parked. There may be a puddle of oil underneath the car, and your car may veer to one side significantly while driving, while the other side is blocked. You may hear higher noise levels in general, especially when steering, and you may need to use more force to steer along with it being harder to drive straight. The steering may feel wobbly or loose.
What Happens When a Steering Rack is Replaced?
During a steering rack replacement, the mechanic will raise the car on a jack and remove the wheels. They will remove the clips that hold the rubber boot in place and unscrew the tie rod from the steering rack. The unit will then be unbolted from the steering column, and the munitions for the power steering fluid will be undone. The steering rack will then be removed and replaced with the new unit before everything else is put back in place. The mechanic will then refill the power steering fluid and bleed the system.
How Can I Repair a Steering Rack?
Repairing or replacing a steering rack is not typically a job that is worth taking on by yourself unless you are confident that you have the required skill and knowledge to do it. To complete this job, you will need several tools including a jack, ball joint fork, screwdrivers, pliers, rachet and socket set, and a hammer. To get to the steering rack and replace it, you will need to remove several components including the wheels, which you will need to replace to complete the job. You will also need to know how to replace the power steering fluid and bleed the system.
About Fixter
Fixter is revolutionising the car maintenance industry, one repair at a time. Fixter was founded to make car maintenance as easy as booking a taxi. Digital, transparent and stress-free, with world-class customer service. Since launching in Manchester in 2017, Fixter has expanded to more than 100 towns and cities across the UK and provided thousands of car owners with honest, convenient and affordable car repair services.