F：Must wheel alignment be done after replacing the steering rack?

Q： The steering rack is the key component to determining the direction a vehicle takes. Having the rack replaced by someone who does not have the capability to set the toe in/toe out is a huge mistake.

This is not a simple replace operation. However, any competent suspension technician can set the toe without the need of expensive alignment equipment. NASCAR teams rountinely set toe after damage in the pits in less than a minute. The shop that replaced your rack should be obligated to set the toe as part of their installation!

F：What is a power steering rack? How do you repair it?

Q： Brian gave you some good background on the rack and pinion steering system.

The "rack" is the major component of the system. If the car has power steering the rack uses hydraulic pressure to help make it easier to turn the steering wheel. And this is usually what ends up causing issues: an internal leak in the steering rack. There are seals that over time can fail and leak. I am assuming this is what you've been told needs attention on your car.

Generally the steering rack is not repaired ...in fact it may not be repairable. Whether it is or isn't, shops will simply replace it with a new (or possibly rebuilt unit). Why? Because it is cheaper in the long run from the standpoint of labor and time. The shop has neither the time or desire to rebuild/repair a steering rack. And even if they did, the labor cost might quickly exceed the price of a brand new unit. The shop also doesn't want you to come back for the repair so they'll do it right to begin with; the steering rack is simply replaced. You, the customer, save money and get a new steering rack. There are seal kits available but, again, the labor cost will boost the total price to repair within easy range of replacing the rack.

That's not to say this will be an inexpensive repair. I did a random sampling since you didn't give specs on your car. A remanufactured steering rack from Rock Used Cars and New Cars | Browse Cars For Sale by City - Auto.com on a 2005 Toyota Camry with a 4cyl runs about $300-350. At least double (maybe triple) that price for what the shop will charge you and then add at least a couple hours of labor ...maybe three ...at $85-90/hr. Throw in the rag charges and taxes and you're looking at right around a grand ...$1000.00. It may be more or less depending on your vehicle, the shop labor rate and the cost of the part ...but I'm guessing the number is in the ballpark.