The steering rack is the core component of a car’s steering system. If your steering rack leaks, makes noise, feels heavy, or fails, it’s time to replace it. Replacing a steering rack is not a simple task—it requires specialized tools and following the correct procedure. We will explain how to replace a steering rack in detail, making sure that you can do a successful replacement by yourself.
What You Need Before Replacing a Steering Rack
Before replacing a steering rack, it’s crucial to have the right tools, understand the process, and check the vehicle for potential issues.
Required Tools
- Car lift / Jack & Jack stands
- Torque wrench (for critical bolts)
- Tie rod puller (to remove tie rod ends)
- Line wrench (for hydraulic power steering hoses)
- Universal joint socket (for bolts in tight spaces)
- Brake cleaner (to remove oil residue)
- New power steering fluid (for hydraulic systems)
Precautions Before Replacement
- Disconnect the car’s power and reset the car’s steering angle sensor.
- Lift the vehicle properly, using jack stands for stability.
- Check space constraints—some vehicles require extra disassembly to access the rack.
- Ensure compatibility—confirm that the new steering rack matches your vehicle model.
How to Replace a Steering Rack
Step1: Removing the Old Steering Rack
- Lift the vehicle with a jack, then remove the front wheels.
- Disconnect the steering column universal joint (which connects the steering wheel to the rack).
- Remove the tie rod ends using a tie rod puller to avoid damage.
- Disconnect hydraulic hoses/electrical cables (hydraulic racks have high-pressure & return lines, electric racks have wiring).
- Loosen the steering rack mounting bolts and carefully slide out the old rack.
Pro Tips:
- For hydraulic power assist systems: Drain the old steering fluid before disassembly to avoid polluting the new parts.
- For confined space models (e.g., Honda, Toyota transverse engine): Use a universal joint socket to disassemble the bolts in the confined location.
Step2: Installing the New Steering Rack
1. Clean up the installation area to remove old grease and iron filings.
2. Position the new steering rack, aligning it with the mounting points.
3. Reconnect the components in the following order:
- Steering column universal joint
- Tie rod ends
- Hydraulic hoses/electrical cables
4. Torque the mounting bolts (use a torque wrench to follow manufacturer specs).
5. Reinstall the front wheels and ensure the steering rack is centered.
Step3: System Calibration & Test Drive
Hydraulic Steering: Fluid Replacement & Bleeding
- Fill the system with new power steering fluid.
- Start the engine and steer the steering wheel full left and right several times to exhaust the system air.
- Check and refill fluid levels as needed.
Electric Power Steering: Programming & Calibration
- Some models (e.g., Ford vehicles) require IDS software to reset the steering angle sensor.
- Use an OBD scan tool to calibrate the new steering rack if necessary.
Test Drive Checklist
- Low-speed check: Is the steering centered? Any noise?
- High-speed check: Is the steering stable? Any pulling to one side?
Step4: Vehicle-Specific Adjustments
Hydraulic vs. Electric Power Steering
- Hydraulic racks: Must flush old fluid to avoid metal debris damaging the new rack.
- Electric racks: Require programming & calibration to sync with the vehicle’s computer.
FWD vs. AWD Considerations
- AWD vehicles (e.g., Subaru WRX): Be careful with front differential oil lines to prevent damage.
- Transverse engine layouts (e.g., Honda, Toyota): Use universal joint sockets for bolts in tight spaces.
When Can You Replace a Steering Rack Yourself?
Feasibility of DIY Replacement
- You have mechanical experience and understand steering systems.
- Your vehicle has ample space, requiring minimal disassembly.
- Your vehicle has a hydraulic steering system (no programming required).
Need for Professional Assistance
- Your vehicle has electric power steering, requiring computer calibration (e.g., BMW, Ford).
- Your engine bay is cramped, requiring subframe removal to access the rack.
- You lack proper tools, such as a torque wrench or a scan tool for recalibration.
