Steering rack gaskets
The steering rack seal prevents power steering fluid leaks from a hydraulic power steering system. The power steering pump forces the fluid through the system under pressure. This oil pressure makes it easier for the wheels to turn in the desired direction. Without power steering, the wheels must be moved back and forth manually, making cars without power steering much heavier to steer.
The power steering seal prevents power steering fluid from leaking out of the system. After a certain period, the seal can start to leak, which can cause problems with the power steering system. Below, we explain how to recognise a faulty steering rack seal.
Steering rack seal leak A faulty steering rack seal causes power steering fluid to leak. This lowers the oil level, causing the power steering to work less effectively 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 oil in the system, causing you to hear the components moving. The vehicle responds less quickly. If the oil level is (too) low, there is no oil pressure in the system, causing the vehicle to respond more slowly to steering 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 that case, the engine warning light will come on. It is then necessary 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 faulty. This system is connected to the steering rack. We do not recommend continuing to drive with a faulty steering rack seal. As described above, there is a chance that the vehicle will no longer respond, which is very dangerous! In addition, the power steering system is a check point for the MOT. A defective power steering system can result in your vehicle failing its MOT.
Replacing the power steering 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. Keep in mind that it is a complicated job that requires disassembling various parts, such as the anti-roll bars, catalytic converter, and hydraulic lines. You will also need a carjack and axle stands to lift the car.
Would you rather leave this job to the garage? Then order a new steering rack seal at a great price from Winparts and take it to the garage yourself. With us, you can quickly find the right seal using your licence plate number. Enter your registration number on the website or manually select the correct car.
Buy a steering rack seal Looking 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 that we can show you the right parts. You will also find dust covers, steering rack gaiters, and steering ball joints!
