The Rack end joint, the end of the steering track rod joined to the end of the Steering rack, has worn quietly, causing much concern for the drivers of cars so equipped when it has finally had enough.
Knocking Over Bumps
Knocking Over Bumps: The sound of a worn rack end can be similar to a worn top mount. The sound tends to come from low down in the vehicle, near to the wheel, as opposed to a sound coming from the top of the suspension.
Uneven Tyre Wear on One Side
Play in the steering rack end causes the wheel to sit at an incorrect angle, scrubbing the in or out edge of the tire. If you have uneven wear on the front tires check the steering rack ends before getting an alignment check.
Vague or Wandering Steering
A worn rack end will allow for excess play in the steering, meaning small inputs will not be transferred to the wheels. This will cause the car to pull in one direction or another, causing you to have to correct constantly. This needs to be sorted out as soon as possible. More on Steering Parts can be found at https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/steering-parts/.
Steering Wheel Slow to Self-Centre
This would be in addition to the normal self-centring of the steering wheel after cornering. If this was not to happen then there would be a problem with your rack end.
Visible Grease or Split Gaiter
A greasy smear on the inner gaiter or a split in the rubber gaiter with dirt entering could indicate that a Steering Rack End needs to be repaired soon. If the Steering Rack End fault appears to be safety related then it is advisable to check if the vehicle has been recalled by the manufacturer before arranging a repair.
Don’t let these tell-tale signs develop into further problems.