Heath’s Go-To Garage for Acura Steering Rack Repairs

Do you notice any struggle when turning your Acura’s steering wheel? Driving your Acura should be easy and comfortable, and the steering process should be as well, but if you feel any stiffness, noise, or fluid leaks, your steering rack is failing. The steering rack is one of the major components of a power steering system that enables you to maneuver your car easily. However, driving can be unsafe and uncomfortable when it starts to fail. Let’s discuss the potential causes of a steering rack issue, the signs that indicate that it is damaged, and where you should take your Acura to resolve this issue.

Signs of Steering Rack Problems in Your Acura

• Difficulty Turning the Steering Wheel: A bad steering rack is characterized by some signs, the most apparent of which is the wheel’s hard turning. The power steering system may be faulty if the steering wheel becomes difficult to maneuver or requires excessive force. This may be caused by low-power steering fluid, pump failure, or steering rack damage.
• Leaking Power Steering Fluid: If you notice red or pink colored fluid dripping beneath your car, then this might be power steering fluid. The steering rack operates through hydraulic pressure, and when there is a leakage in the system, then the efficiency of the system is affected. This implies a leaking rack can cause complete steering system failure if not fixed on time.
• Unusual Noises When Turning: The steering mechanism is expected to be noise-free. If the car produces whining, grinding, or clunking noises when the wheel is turned, this is usually an indication of wear inside the steering rack. These noises are usually caused by worn gears or lack of lubrication of the gears in the car engine.
• Steering Feels Loose or Unresponsive: If your Acura’s steering is not as responsive or tight as when you first purchased the vehicle, the steering rack may be worn out. A loose steering wheel makes it difficult to handle the car, especially at high speed, and is therefore dangerous.
• Uneven Tire Wear: If the steering rack is faulty, it can lead to misalignment of your wheels, which results in uneven tire wear. If you find that one side of the tire is worn out more than the other, then it could be a problem with the steering system.

Causes of Acura Steering Rack Problems

• Normal Wear and Tear: Like any other car component, the steering rack is bound to wear out with time. This is because, when the car is used, the internal parts of the rack, such as gears and seals, wear out, making the system less efficient.
• Contaminated Power Steering Fluid: The power steering system is very important and works with clean fluid. If this fluid gets contaminated by dirt or debris, the steering rack seals and internal parts will be damaged.
• Harsh Driving Conditions: Bumpy roads, regular sharp turns, or any other impact that puts pressure on the Acura’s steering system will cause wear and tear on the steering rack. These shocks gradually affect the rack and may lead to leaks or misalignment of the steering system.
• Lack of Maintenance: If you do not check your power steering fluid and do not replace it when necessary, you will experience problems with the steering rack. Old or contaminated fluid deteriorates and increases the wear of seals and other moving parts in the rack.

Visit Howland Autohaus For All Your Acura Needs

The steering rack of your Acura is an important component required for safe and comfortable driving. If you ever feel that the car is hard to steer, you see fluid on the ground, or hear unusual sounds, do not dismiss them; such problems can be fixed before they become major issues.

Welcome to Howland Autohaus, where we offer Acura repair and steering system service for residents of Heath, Ohio, and nearby communities, including Hebron, Buckeye Lake, Granville, New Albany, Johnstown, Lancaster, Pickerington, Zanesville, Newark, and Pataskala.  Our professionals can assess, diagnose, and repair any problems concerning your steering rack and make your Acura drive like when it left the lot. Struggling with a faulty steering system in your Acura automobile? Visit us or call our service line to get the best services offered by our specialists!

* Acura Car Steering Wheel image credit goes to: Vicky Gosselin.