Car Steering inspection, repair & replacement
The steering system enables the driver to navigate and control the direction of movement while driving a car. It works by converting the rotational motion of the wheel into the angular movement of the front wheels (and all four wheels in the case of a 4-wheel drive).
Typically, the system consists of a steering wheel, steering rack, steering pump track rods and track rod ends. In addition to responsive handling, the steering system needs to be functioning in optimum conditions to ensure the overall safety of the vehicle. A well-maintained steering system also contributes to a smooth and comfortable driving experience.
Steering services we offer
Power Steering Fluid change
Power steering fluid is a special fluid that serves as a medium to transmit the appropriate energy within a vehicle power steering system. During a power steering fluid change this liquid is drained and replaced with fresh fluid.
Power Steering repair
The power steering pump is responsible for generating the hydraulic pressure needed to assist in steering the vehicle. When the power steering pump becomes damaged, it can lead to decreased steering efficiency or complete steering failure. During this repair, the faulty pump is inspected, repaired, or replaced with a new unit to restore steering function.
Power Steering Fluid Reservoir replacement
The steering fluid is stored in a container called the power steering fluid reservoir. Over time, this container can become damaged and cracked which is when a power steering fluid reservoir replacement will be needed.
Track Rod End replacement
Track rod ends also known as tie rod ends connect the steering rack to the wheel hub thus enabling the steering movement of the wheels. During a track rod end replacement, the ends are inspected and replaced with new parts to ensure proper handling and optimum steering performance.
Some of the Car Steering jobs we offer
- Camber angle check & adjust - front
- Camber angle check & adjust - rear
- Power steering fluid refresh
- Power steering high pressure hose replacement
- Power steering pump replacement
- Steering column replacement
- Steering rack gaiter replacement (driver side)
- Steering rack gaiter replacement (passenger side)
- Steering rack replacement
- Track rod end replacement (driver side)
- Track rod end replacement (passenger side)
- Track rod replacement (driver side)
- Track rod replacement (passenger side)
- Wheel alignment
Frequently asked questions about car steering inspection, repair & replacements
Read our answers to questions about car steering inspection, repair & replacement costs, symptoms and more.
What is a steering fault diagnostic?
Steering is of course critical to a vehicle's use so any issues that arise with it are not only dangerous, they could be life threatening. ClickMechanic’s steering fault diagnostic is specially geared towards finding the causes of knocking, stiffness and general faults associated with the steering mechanism.
What does a steering fault diagnostic involve?
This very much depends on the characteristics of the fault and the components the vehicle has been built with.
The technician will go through the joints and mountings of the components, the tie rod components, the rack and the column etc.
With electronic power steering (EPS), the mechanic may also access the electronic control unit that manages it as well.
Can I fix a steering fault myself?
Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend work on the car steering is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.
How long does it take to replace a steering rack?
The time it will take to check & fix a problem with the car steering will take will depend on the type of job needed and a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.
Can I still drive with a steering issue?
If you experience any untoward characteristics in your steering, or if you suspect there is any issue with the steering or there are concerns about its condition, book a diagnostic inspection immediately and do not drive the vehicle. The steering is obviously critical to a vehicle's use so any issues that arise with it are not only dangerous, they could be life threatening.
Can a steering rack be repaired?
If the steering rack is faulty it is generally not repaired but replaced. The mechanic will replace the old unity with a new one.
Can you drive a car when the power steering goes out?
If the power steering starts to fail, the steering wheel will be heavier to turn than normal, if it fails completely you may find it very hard to turn the wheel. Hence, it is not advisable to drive with faulty power steering. If you suspect an issue with the power steering or that it has stopped working it's very important to book an inspection with a mechanic with immediate effect to get it checked.
How much does it cost to change a steering rack?
Cost for a steering rack replacement is on average £485, with pricing ranging from around £320 to £750. Ultimately, cost depends on your location, car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement.
Can you drive with a bad steering rack?
If the steering rack is compromised due to wear it can be dangerous to drive as you may lose the ability to steer as normal and may lose control over the vehicle. Obviously this is safety hazard, it is recommended to book a diagnostic inspection with a mechanic and to not drive the vehicle if you suspect any issue with the steering.
What are the symptoms of a car steering issue?
Common symptoms that will show there is a steering issue on a car can be as follows:
- Difficulty in turning the steering wheel
- Vibrations from the steering wheel
- Grinding noise when turning the steering wheel
- Excessive play or looseness in the steering wheel
- Power steering fluid leak
- Discoloured or bad power steering fluid
- Vehicle pulls to one side
Is a problem with a car's steering an MOT failure?
Yes, a steering problem can lead an MOT failure. There is a large number of points related to steering on which your car can fail. For example a major issue may be recorded if parts are defective, excessively worn or if 'excessive roughness in operation of steering' is identified, or indeed if the steering rack has a leak.
How much does it cost to fix a steering issue?
Cost for a steering fault diagnostic is on average £65. Ultimately, the cost of a steering fault diagnostic depends on your car and your location. Find out what you could save by having a steering fault diagnostic carried out by ClickMechanic by selecting your car at the top of this page to get a quote.
Check out the ClickMechanic price for a car steering inspection, repair & replacement. See the averages for different makes below. We consolidate industry standard data with millions of data points to give you the most accurate price. These estimates may include PAS fluid (top-up), PAS fluid (top-up), Track rod (driver side), Track rod (passenger side), Track rod end joint (driver side), Track rod end joint (passenger side), Steering rack gaiter (driver side), Steering rack gaiter (passenger side), Power steering pump, Steering column and/or Steering rack/box.
Name | Average Cost | |
---|---|---|
Audi | £294 | Get exact price |
BMW | £199 | Get exact price |
Citroen | £180 | Get exact price |
Ford | £238 | Get exact price |
Land Rover | £273 | Get exact price |
Mercedes-Benz | £253 | Get exact price |
Nissan | £180 | Get exact price |
Peugeot | £239 | Get exact price |
Renault | £160 | Get exact price |
Toyota | £212 | Get exact price |
Vauxhall | £230 | Get exact price |
Volkswagen | £238 | Get exact price |
Estimates on average repair costs, such as the above results for a car steering inspection, repair & replacement, are based on ClickMechanic's quote data which combines multiple third-party sources. Actual costs may vary. We provide estimates on average repair costs for information only and accept no liability for any inaccuracies or errors. If you think an estimate is incorrect, please contact us to let us know.
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Mechanics that undertake car steering work
- EURO AUTO SERVICES, Milton Keynes
- Jj Mobile Motors, Weston-Super-Mare
- John Lowry, Colchester
- Mobile Mechanics 4 U, Newport
- Nigel-Smith.Com, Brentwood, Shenfield
- Nsb Automotive Ltd, County Antrim
- P&r Motors Mobile, Worthing
- Tg Services, Malmesbury
- The Fuel Drainer, Bournemouth