steering problem

i'm not sure what the problem with my car is... the steering feels loose and shakes back and forth even at low speeds. its not the allignment. someone told me it might be the rack... any ideas?

Check your wheel bearings and ball joints to see if they're good or not.

thanks... i'm guessing this isn't too costly and/or labor intensive?

Put the front of the car up on jack stands.

Grab each side of the tire, and try to rock it side to side quickly. If your stuff is tight, it wont move. If its loose, then its what mellowboy said.

I had a bent rack in my car before, similar feeling. Your tie rods or tie rod ends may be bent also.

good luck