hi everyone I have an issue with a leeking rack n pinion.
my question is can this be repaired or do I need to get it replaced?
if I do need to get it replaced is aftermarket as good as OEM??
how much does a rack n pinion cost??? for both OEM and aftermarket?

thanks for your helps guys!
ken

 

I replaced the rack on my 03' myself and the part from Autozone was 199.00. It's not easy to do but if you're handy it can be accomplished. I would get under it just to make sure it is not a line or hose leaking. I fixed a leaking hose first but later the rack was making a thumping noise so I replaced it. Then about 6 months later that rack went bad but Autozone warranteed the part. (of course I spent another Sunday on my back putting the new one in)!!

 

did you need to get a wheel alingment after your install?
did you also replace the steering fluid?? OEM fluid or other store brands?

 

you'll need an alignment. also I replaced the fluid ATF+4 from Autozone, and cleaned the reservoir filter/screen.

 

The fluid is redish in the resivour. I added valvoline steering fluid which is a clear liquid. Is this okey to use? It says it can be used with chrysler vehicles?

 

I always use what the owners manual requires. It's the safe way to do it. Mine calls for the ATF+4 which is the red color fluid. If you change the rack you might want to evacuate all the fluid from the system now that you have two different fluids in there. Although I'm not positive the two could be compatible

 

I actually put powersteering fluid in, mixed with the atf fluid already in the resivour? Since the rack is leaking? I guess it wouln't matter as Im going to get it replaced anyway. Just going to keep driving it for a while and check the resivour level if it drops and looses fluid. So once I get the rack and pinion replaced,do I still need to use atf or could I use power steering fluid?