The steering rack seal prevents leakage of power steering fluid from a hydraulic power steering system. The fluid is pumped through the system under pressure by the power steering pump. This fluid pressure makes it easier to turn the wheels in the desired direction. Without power steering, the wheels have to be moved back and forth manually, making cars without power steering much heavier to steer.
The steering rack seal prevents power steering fluid from leaking out of the system. This seal is mounted between two parts and acts as a seal. After a certain period, the seal can start to leak. This can cause problems with the power steering system. Below we explain how to recognise a defective steering rack seal.
Steering rack seal defect
A defective steering rack seal will cause power steering fluid to leak. This will cause the fluid level to drop, causing the power steering to work less well or not at all. You can recognise a leaking steering rack by several symptoms:
- You hear a squeaking sound when turning the steering wheel. This is because there is not enough fluid in the system, causing you to hear the parts moving.
- The vehicle responds less quickly. If the fluid level is (too) low, there is no fluid pressure in the system, causing the vehicle to respond more slowly to steering wheel movements.
- The power steering warning light illuminates on your dashboard. This light warns you that there is a problem with the steering system. You can recognise this light as a steering wheel with an exclamation mark next to it. Some vehicles do not have this light, in which case the engine warning light will illuminate. If this happens, it is important to have the fault code read.
- Turning the steering wheel becomes heavier, or the steering wheel does not turn at all. Without power steering, the wheels have to be turned manually. It is also possible that the vehicle can no longer be steered if the steering rack seal is defective. This system is connected to the steering rack.
We do not recommend continuing to drive with a defective steering rack seal. As described above, there is a chance that the vehicle will no longer respond. This is very dangerous! Laws and regulations may vary by country. Please check the laws and regulations applicable in your country.
Replacing the steering rack seal
Replacing the steering rack seal is a difficult job. With some technical knowledge or understanding of car maintenance, you can replace the seal yourself. However, keep in mind that it is a complicated job that requires disassembling various parts, such as the anti-roll bars, catalytic converter and hydraulic pipes. You will also need a car jack and axle stands to raise the car.
Would you rather leave this job to a garage? Then order a new steering rack seal at a great price from Winparts and take it to the garage yourself. With our registration number checker, you can quickly find the right seal. Enter your registration number on the website or manually select the correct car, and we will show you the right parts for your vehicle!
Buying a steering rack seal
Need to buy a new steering rack seal? At Winparts you can find the right parts using your registration number. Enter your car details or registration number on the website, so we can show you the correct parts. You will also find dust covers, steering rack gaiters and track rod ends!