Rack and Pinion 98

[annclare]

i HOPE SOMEONE CAN HELP ME!! My 98 Taurus is having steering problems. At first it was just making a loud noise when I turned the wheel after a few days the power steering seemed to go out all together. It is very difficult to turn the wheel especially when parking. I took it in and was told I needed a whole new rack and pinion steering unit ( $600+). I don't know much at all about cars ..does that sound right. There is no power steering fluid leak

[Willyum]

Doubtful if anyone else would know for sure if the diagnosis is right without listening/looking at it. Only rack job I've ever had was on a '91 Accord and the dealership wanted $1200. It ended up just being the pump, got it at a wrecking yard for $35 and installed it myself.

[joeelgato]

Hopefully you didnt get your car fix for that much money. Like our friend said it can be your power steering pump and yes at a junk yard you can find them for about $25-$35. If your rack and pinion is leaking, you can take your car to any shop where they do ALIGNMENT. Simply tell the tech that you need to have an alignment done and they will check out your suspension for free. If they are honest they will tell you that your rack and pinion is bad and needs replacing before proceeding with the alignment job. Do a little research before purchasing a rack and pinion. Dont go to Autozone or Kragen they really have high prices, but yes they do offer lifetime warranty (but reality if you purchase a rebuilt rack its just as good). Try a small independent autoparts store. I found the rack and pinion at a neighborhood autoparts shop, remanufactured with 1 year warranty for only $60. Its been 3 years since.
Good luck

[annclare]

Thanks so much for the advice. I have still not fixed my car but will try some of the things suggested. Does anyone know of a honest mechanic in the Chicago area zip 60647 or someone who works on cars on the side?

[brokenantimatter]

Is anything else happening on the car?
Electronic wise?
Random PCM errors can cause this and display false codes and so could a Transmission Range Sensor.