The steering rack is an essential part of your car’s steering system. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to control your car’s direction, which would greatly compromise your safety on the road.
That’s why, if your steering rack becomes damaged or fails, you’ll need to get it repaired or replaced immediately. It’s a good idea to be prepared for this expense. So, to help you budget wisely, we’ll cover ballpark costs for steering rack replacement in this article.
We’ll also explore the function of a steering rack, how to spot the signs of failure, the risks of driving with a faulty steering rack - and how to save money on replacement.
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What is a steering rack?
The steering rack is the mechanical middleman between your car’s steering wheel and its wheels. It’s responsible for ensuring your car steers in the intended direction.
Also known as a ‘rack-and-pinion' system, the steering rack comprises a metal bar with teeth along the top (the rack), a pinion gear in the centre, and a tie rod on either end, along with various bearings, bushings and seals to keep everything working properly.
The tie rods are attached to the front wheels and the pinion gear is connected to the steering column. When you turn the steering wheel, the movement goes through the steering column to the pinion gear, which meshes with the teeth on the rack. This causes it to shift left or right, which then turns the wheels.
There are two main types of steering rack: hydraulic and electric. In a hydraulic steering rack, power steering fluid is fed into the rack via pipes and a pump, and then pressurised with pistons while the pinion gear moves across the rack. This hydraulic pressure makes it much easier for you to turn the steering wheel.
Electric steering racks work in a similar way, but instead of pumps, pistons, and pipes, there are sensors and an electric motor on the rack to add the extra power.
Signs of a faulty steering rack
Knowing the signs of a failing or damaged steering rack is important, so you can quickly take action to get it repaired or replaced. Here are the telltale signs to look and listen out for:
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The steering becomes harder or less responsive.
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The steering wheel feels loose or wobbly.
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The steering wheel doesn’t go back to the centre after turning.
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The steering wheel vibrates.
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It’s harder to drive in a straight line.
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There’s a power steering fluid or oil leak under the car.
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There are knocking or clunking sounds when you turn.
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There’s a smell of burning oil.
Steering rack replacement costs in the UK
The cost of steering rack replacement varies widely, depending on factors such as:
- The make and model of your car.
- The type of steering rack (hydraulic or electric).
- Whether you use new or used parts.
- The price of labour at your chosen garage.
We’ve listed average replacement steering rack prices for some of most popular car models on UK roads below:
- Audi A4: £239 to £481
- BMW 3 Series: £146 to £1,029
- Ford Focus: £203 to £554
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class: £171 to £1,013
- Peugeot 208: £79 to £577
- Toyota Yaris: £98 to £639
- Vauxhall Astra: £210 to £769
- Volkswagen Golf: £57 to £376
These figures just cover the component and exclude labour costs, which typically run to between £240 and £640, depending on the complexity of the job and local labour rates.
Can you drive with a faulty steering rack?
If you suspect your steering rack is faulty or failing, you should not drive your car. There’s a very high risk that you’ll lose control of the steering, whether that’s because the wheel is too stiff, too loose, or just unresponsive. (Any of these scenarios could lead to an accident.)
You’ll also save yourself money by resolving any steering rack issues promptly, as ignoring them is likely to cause more severe damage to your car. To stay safe, we recommend taking your car to a garage as soon as you notice any of the warning signs we covered earlier on.
How to save money on steering rack replacement
Replacing a steering rack can be costly, so you might be wondering, “Is it time to sell my car?” You might even consider whether to repair or sell your car. However, if you do decide to replace your steering rack, there are steps you can take to reduce costs:
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Refurbished/reconditioned racks are significantly cheaper than new ones, costing anywhere up to 50% less. These used steering racks have been professionally checked and repaired – and most reputable suppliers will provide a warranty, so that if there’s an issue, you’ll be covered.
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Another option is to buy a used part from an online marketplace or a scrap dealer. You could get a great price, but just be aware that steering racks sold through these channels don’t usually come with a warranty.
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Shopping around is a must to keep prices as low as possible. Get multiple quotes from local garages and online services - and carefully check what’s included to avoid any nasty surprises.
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Another way to save money is by replacing your steering rack yourself rather than hiring a professional. However, you should only attempt this if you have considerable mechanical experience and a well-equipped garage, as it’s a complex job.
However you decide to replace your steering rack, make sure you take action as soon as you notice any warning signs. This will help you to stay safe on the road and avoid causing more damage to your motor.