How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Steering Rack?

Expect to pay about $900–$2,500 for a steering rack replacement on most cars in the U.S., including parts, labor, and alignment. Trucks, SUVs, luxury models, and vehicles with electric power steering (EPS) frequently land between $2,000–$4,000+, especially when programming or subframe removal is required. Costs vary by vehicle, parts choice (new vs. remanufactured), labor rates, and any additional work discovered during the job.

Typical Price Ranges by Vehicle Type

The type of vehicle and steering system largely determines the final bill. The following ranges reflect parts plus labor at common U.S. shop rates.

• Compact/economy cars: $900–$1,500
• Midsize sedans and crossovers: $1,000–$2,200
• Full-size trucks and SUVs: $1,500–$3,000
• Luxury/performance vehicles and advanced EPS systems: $2,000–$4,000+

These brackets assume a standard alignment and no major rust or collision damage. Complex packaging, AWD components, or integrated electronics can push the cost higher.

Cost Breakdown: Parts, Labor, and Extras

Several line items make up the total price. Understanding each helps you assess estimates and avoid surprises.

• Parts (rack and related components):
  

  • Remanufactured hydraulic rack: ~$350–$900
  • New OEM hydraulic rack: ~$700–$1,800
  • Electric power steering (EPS) rack: ~$900–$2,500+ (often OEM-only)
  • Inner/outer tie rods and boots (if not included): ~$60–$250

• Labor: Typically 3–6 hours for many cars; 6–10 hours on some trucks, AWD, or subframe-drop vehicles. At $120–$200/hour, labor commonly runs $360–$2,000.
• Wheel alignment: ~$100–$200 (almost always required after rack replacement)
• Fluids and seals (hydraulic systems): ~$20–$80
• EPS programming/coding and steering angle calibration (if required): ~$100–$300
• Core charge on reman racks (refunded when old rack is returned): ~$100–$300
• Taxes and shop supplies: Typically a modest percentage of the total

On straightforward jobs with a remanufactured rack, expect the lower end of the range; EPS systems, OEM parts, or high labor markets push costs toward the top end.

Factors That Drive the Price Up or Down

Beyond the rack itself, several vehicle- and market-specific variables affect your out-the-door price.

• Steering type: EPS racks tend to cost more than hydraulic racks and may require programming.
• Vehicle design: Subframe drops, tight engine bays, and AWD components add labor hours.
• Rust/corrosion: Seized fasteners or tie rods can significantly increase labor time.
• Part choice: New OEM is costliest; quality reman parts can save hundreds without sacrificing reliability.
• Labor market: Urban/coastal shops may charge $180–$250/hour; rural areas can be lower.
• Add-ons: Worn tie rods, leaking lines, or mounts often surface once the rack is out.
• Warranty needs: Longer warranties typically accompany OEM or premium reman parts.

If your estimate is much higher than average, ask whether EPS programming, subframe removal, or additional components are included—these are common and legitimate cost drivers.

Time to Complete and What’s Included

Most rack replacements can be finished in a day, but parts availability or additional repairs can extend the timeline.

• Time: 3–6 labor hours for many vehicles; up to 6–10 hours for complex layouts.
• What’s typically included: Rack removal and installation, transfer or replacement of tie rods and boots, fluid flush (hydraulic), wheel alignment, and road test.
• What may be added: EPS coding/calibration, new tie rods, lines, mounts, or bushings if wear is found.

Before approving work, confirm whether alignment, fluids, and any programming are itemized so you can compare quotes on equal terms.

Symptoms That Point to a Bad Steering Rack

Not every steering issue requires a new rack. These signs increase the likelihood that a rack is at fault.

• Leaking power steering fluid (hydraulic systems)
• Steering play, clunks, or knock over bumps
• Heavy, notchy, or inconsistent steering effort
• Vehicle wanders or won’t track straight despite alignment
• Uneven or rapid front tire wear related to toe changes
• EPS warning light, loss of power assist, or intermittent assist (EPS)

A proper diagnosis should also rule out worn tie rods, pump issues (hydraulic), column joints, or alignment faults before replacing the rack.

Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners

There are practical strategies to reduce cost while keeping the repair reliable and safe.

• Choose a reputable remanufactured rack with a solid warranty when OEM isn’t required.
• Get 2–3 detailed quotes that specify parts brand, labor hours, alignment, and programming.
• Replace inner/outer tie rods proactively if they’re worn—labor overlap minimizes extra cost.
• Return the core promptly to recover the core charge.
• Avoid used EPS racks; software compatibility and unknown history can create costly headaches.
• Ask if any discounts apply (AAA, military, or shop promotions) and verify warranty terms (12/12 to lifetime on some remans).

Clear estimates and quality reman parts often deliver the best balance of price and peace of mind.

Regional Reference (Approximate)

Local labor rates and parts availability vary. These ballpark totals include parts and labor for typical vehicles.

• United States: $900–$2,500 (common), $2,000–$4,000+ (luxury/EPS/trucks)
• Canada: C$1,300–C$3,400 (common), higher on luxury/EPS
• United Kingdom: £700–£1,800 (common), £1,600–£3,000+ (luxury/EPS)
• Australia: A$1,400–A$3,500 (common), higher for luxury/EPS and remote regions

Use these as guides only; get vehicle-specific quotes that reflect local labor rates and parts choices.

FAQs

Common questions arise around alignment, drivability, and alternatives to full replacement.

• Is an alignment required? Yes—toe is affected when the rack is replaced.
• Can I drive with a failing rack? Not advisable; loss of assist or steering play is a safety risk.
• Can inner tie rods be replaced without replacing the rack? Often, yes; this is cheaper if the rack itself is sound.
• Is a steering rack the same as rack-and-pinion? Yes; it’s the assembly that translates steering wheel rotation to wheel angle.
• Will warranty or insurance cover it? Extended warranties sometimes do; standard auto insurance typically doesn’t unless damage stems from a covered incident.

When in doubt, request a written inspection with photos of leaks or play and an itemized estimate to confirm the rack is the root cause.

Summary

For most vehicles, steering rack replacement runs $900–$2,500 in the U.S., with trucks, luxury models, and EPS systems reaching $2,000–$4,000+. The final price hinges on parts (OEM vs. reman), labor hours, alignment, and any programming or additional components. To control costs, compare detailed quotes, consider quality remanufactured parts, and address related wear items while access is open.

Is it worth it to replace a power steering rack?

If the damage is minor and the repair cost is significantly lower than a new rack, repairing may be the way to go. However, if the rack is heavily damaged, old, or if you want to ensure reliability, replacing it is generally recommended.

Can I drive with a damaged steering rack?

Therefore, the integrity of the rack and pinion is essential for safe driving. Once these parts are damaged, the vehicle’s handling performance will be greatly reduced, and it may even lead to unforeseen dangerous situations.

How long does it take to replace a steering rack?

Replacing a steering rack typically takes 4 to 6 hours of labor at a professional mechanic, though the exact time varies by vehicle design and technician experience. The process includes disconnecting and removing the old rack, installing the new one, bleeding the power steering system, and requires a crucial wheel alignment afterward. Factors like vehicle complexity, rust and corrosion, and potential delays in parts availability can increase the time required. 
Factors Affecting Replacement Time

• Vehicle Design: The location and mounting of the steering rack vary significantly by vehicle, with some being much more challenging to access and replace than others. 
• Technician Skill: An experienced and proficient mechanic can complete the job more efficiently than a less experienced one. 
• Vehicle Condition: Rust and corrosion can make removing bolts and components difficult, prolonging the repair process. 
• Part Availability: If parts are delayed or not readily available, the job can be held up. 

Steps in a Steering Rack Replacement

1. Drain Power Steering Fluid: The first step involves draining the old power steering fluid. 
2. Disconnection: Various components are disconnected, including tie rods and power steering fluid lines. 
3. Removal: The old rack and pinion assembly is carefully removed from the vehicle. 
4. Installation: The new steering rack is installed, and power steering lines are reconnected without leaks. 
5. Bleeding the System: The power steering system needs to be bled to remove air, ensuring smooth operation. 
6. Wheel Alignment: A vital post-replacement step is a wheel alignment to correct steering geometry, which will almost certainly be off after replacing the rack. 

Why You Need a Steering Rack
The steering rack is a critical part of your vehicle’s steering system. A failing steering rack can lead to power loss or leaks, and driving with a compromised rack poses a significant safety risk.

How expensive is a steering rack repair?

Generally, a power steering rack and pinion replacement cost is an average of $560 for the parts alone, plus any incidentals. And on top of that, labor costs can range from $150 to more than $700, and you will also need a wheel alignment afterward.