A steering rack is used in rack and pinion gear steering. When the steering wheel is turned, the steering rack, attached via the steering shaft, interprets the directional input and pushes or pulls the front wheels in the desired direction. The steering rack can become damaged if the power steering system, if applicable, is allowed to operate without enough fluid. Also it can become worn and damaged of the steering rack boots are not intact and debris is allowed to enter the steering rack. If the steering rack fails, then a steering rack replacement is needed.
When performing a steering rack replacement, the technician removes the steering shaft and steering tie rod ends. If the vehicle is equipped with power steering, the power steering lines must be removed as well. After removing the hardware that secures the steering rack to the chassis, the old steering rack is removed and the new one installed. Finally, the vehicle's wheel alignment will needed to be checked and adjustments made if necessary.
Most manufacturer factory warranties cover the cost of a steering rack replacement under their bumper-to-bumper warranty, as long as it fails due to a manufacturer defect or workmanship. There are extended auto warranties available that will extend coverage of the steering rack after the factory warranty has expired.