Hello all, I'm new here. My roommate referred me to this website.

Any way, after getting an oil change, my dealership told me I needed a new LCA (Lower Control Arm) and a new steering rack. They are telling me that my power steering is leaking and that I will need a new rack.

I bought the car about a year ago, but it does have 95k miles on it. Is there any way I can check to see if these are needed or are they just trying to make some $$$ off of me.

Thanks guys. Any help would def. be appreciated.

Edit: They also quoted me $1700 for this. Is there a DIY for the LCA / Steering Rack?

 

Get a second opinion or jack up the car and look for your self...

I can supply you the parts at a hefty discount from what they quoted you as well as service manual pages on how to replace them...

LCA wont be hard...

 

It sounds like the ball joint might have worn out on the LCA in which case you would need to replace the whole arm, that is correct. You can not get the ball joint seperately as I have checked (mine needs replacing as well). I have 82k miles on my 04 so it sounds about right as far as the mileage goes.

I am not to sure on the power steering rack as mine is still ok.

To check your ball joint in the LCA just jack up the front of the car and look for the rubber bushing on the LCA (looks like a ball) and see if it is cracked and worn out, kinda all greasy looking. If it does, then it is worn out. Get estimates at some good local shops as the dealership will always cost you more.

 

Hey Jason,

Could you PM me a price on the rack? Thanks for the help from the both of you.

Do you know how I can check the steering rack to see if it's bad? Thanks as this is my daily driver and any input would definitely help.

 

Look at the rack and see if you can detect any leaks, check your fluid for loss. Do you have abnormal play in the wheel? Are the tie ends just worn? No leaky no fixey. Unless it's just wore smooth out.

 

After years on these forums, this is the first time I have ever heard of a bad rack. Check it out thoroughly so that you are not being taken over the coals.

 

More likely a leaking power steering hose. They are trying to hose you, LOL.

 

Man, I appreciate all the help. I haven't had time to jack up the car and look for myself.

 

Are there any symptoms of a faulty rack? The steering wheel seems fine to me. I honestly haven't noticed anything funny. Can you just replace the boots on the rack if they're ripped?

 

If it make vibration when you turn the wheel or there is a lot of play (easier to feel when the car is off), it could have worn gears (unlikely unless you drive a LOT of really bad roads). More likely is a leaking PS pump seal, one of the hoses, or the seals on the rack, look for fluid coming out of the boots.

 

we have done a few under warranty....

but like 1 every 2 months....

 

Does anyone know what page these things are on in the service manual? I would appreciate it. Thanks.