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Suspension, steering, brakes and wheels

Problems with the steering rack and column: symptoms, cost and affected models

We have documented 147 faults with the steering rack and column in 138 cars. The most important by severity and frequency: poorly tightened steering track rods with risk of loss of control (2020-2021 production) (Peugeot 208 II), corrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rack (Seat Ateca, Volkswagen Tiguan II, Seat Tarraco and Volkswagen Caddy III and others) and corrosion of the steering rack bolt (Volkswagen Golf VII). At an independent garage, the repair costs from €850 to €850 depending on the engine or car.[1]

Documented faults
147
115 of high or critical severity
Cars analysed
138
with at least one fault on this part
Affected models
138
car generations in our database
Garage repair
€850
Depending on engine and car, including VAT

7 sourcesHow we work

How it works and why it fails

Steering rack and steering column

The rack converts the turning of the steering wheel into movement of the wheels, and the column connects the steering wheel to it. Play, tight spots, noises, or bolts and parts outside specification are the most common documented faults; several have been corrected with recalls.

What to do

Play in the steering wheel, dull clunks when turning at a standstill or imprecise steering deserve an early check: these are safety parts. Use the VIN to check whether your car has an outstanding steering campaign.

General explanation by MotorFiable. The specific faults of each engine and car, with their sources, are on the linked pages.

Common symptoms

The symptoms that come up most often in the documented faults with the steering rack and column. Open each one to see what other faults cause it.

Problems with the steering rack and column by car

Faults documented on specific cars, which occur with any engine. From most to least important.

  1. 1Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentPeugeot 208 IIPoorly tightened steering track rods with risk of loss of control (2020-2021 production)Peugeot recalled the 208 IIs built between December 2020 and April 2021 in February 2023 because the nuts on the steering track rods might not be properly tightened, with a risk of losing control of the car.
  2. 2Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentSeat AtecaCorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rackYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen, Audi and Seat recalled cars built between 2016 and 2024, including the Ateca, because a bolt that secures the steering rack to the front axle can break through corrosion and leave the car without steering control. The repair is free at the official network.Repair: €0
  3. 3Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentVolkswagen Golf VIICorrosion of the steering rack boltYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen recalled Golfs built between 24 September 2013 and 1 July 2024 because a bolt joining the steering rack can corrode from road salt and compromise control of the car. The inspection and part replacement are free.Repair: €0
  4. 4Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentVolkswagen Tiguan IICorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rackYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen, Audi and Seat recalled cars built between 2013 and 2024, including the Tiguan, because a bolt that secures the steering rack to the front axle can break through corrosion and leave the car without steering control. The repair is free through the official network.Repair: €0
  5. 5Critical severityFrequency: CommonOpel Meriva APower steering faults and recall for the steering rack pinion (2007 units)Yes: fiches-auto.fr describes the power steering as 'a known problem of the brand' on the Meriva A, with pump failures and loss of assistance. In addition, the KBA recalled 748 units built in 2007 because the steering rack pinion might not be properly secured, with a risk of losing the ability to steer the car.
  6. 6High severityFrequency: CommonBMW Serie 1 F20Electric power steering (EPS) and steering rack failureIt is a known fault: gebrauchtwagenberater.de says that electric power steering (EPS) problems are 'not rare' on the F20, and fiches-auto.fr collects owner reports of lost assistance (a worn cable) and steering rack replacement at around 110,000 km, plus a 2016 recall for a soldering defect in the control unit.
  7. 7High severityFrequency: CommonBMW Serie 3 E90Steering rack and power steering pump failureIt is one of the faults owners cite most: fiches-auto.fr describes failures of the steering rack (sometimes locked) and of the power steering pump, mainly on the 318i and 320d, with steering columns replaced for €800-1,200 or a reprogramming for around €200-250 in France.
  8. 8High severityFrequency: CommonFiat Punto IIElectric power steering motor and column failureYes: it is the most frequently cited non-mechanical fault on the fiches-auto.fr page (42 cases out of around 191 testimonials): the electric power steering motor or column fails and leaves the steering unassisted or intermittent.Appears at around 70,000 km
  9. 9High severityFrequency: CommonMINI Cooper R50Power steering rack and pump failureAccording to the reports collected by fiches-auto.fr, the steering on the Mini R50 is one of its most repeated faults: 27 mentions of a fragile rack (mostly before 2004) and another 27 of the power steering pump, with one pump case at 72,000 km.
  10. 10Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAbarth 595Steering gear with insufficient lubrication due to water ingress: the steering may stiffen or lock (2017 recall)Safety Gate/RAPEX published in July 2017 (alert 29/2017) a recall of the Fiat 500 and Abarth 500 built in March 2017: water ingress can leave the steering gear without sufficient lubrication, and the steering may stiffen or lock. The alert warns that it may not affect every car.
  11. 11Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAbarth 595Steering gear rod nut insufficiently tightened (2022 recall)Safety Gate/RAPEX published in June 2022 (alert A12/00831/22) a recall of the Fiat 500 and Fiat 500 Abarth built from 21 to 30 March 2022 (Fiat codes 6450 and 6451): the locking nut on the steering gear rod may be insufficiently tightened, with a risk of losing steering. It affects 174 vehicles worldwide.
  12. 12Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi Q3 ICorrosion of the steering rack bolt (2026 campaign)Yes, in part: the 2026 Volkswagen and Audi campaign for steering bolt corrosion covers Audi Q3 models built between 31 October 2017 and May 2024. As the Q3 I stopped being built in June 2018, only its last cars fall within the campaign; most of the affected Q3s are already second-generation.Repair: €0
  13. 13Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi Q3 IICorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rack (2026 campaign)Yes: since September 2026, Volkswagen, Audi and Seat have been recalling 2.8 million cars over a steering bolt that can corrode and break. It affects around 696,547 Audi Q3s built between the end of October 2017 and May 2024, which means practically the entire Q3 II production up to that date. The replacement is free at official dealers.Repair: €0
  14. 14Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi Q7 4MBolt joining the steering shaft to the rack tightened to insufficient torqueAudi recalled some Q7s built between 2015 and February 2019 because the bolt joining the steering shaft to the rack may have been tightened to insufficient torque and could work loose over time, which can affect steering control.
  15. 15Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi Q8Bolt joining the steering shaft to the rack tightened to insufficient torqueAudi recalled some Q8s built up to February 2019 because the bolt joining the steering shaft to the rack may have been tightened to insufficient torque and could work loose over time, which can affect steering control.
  16. 16Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C1 IIRecall for steering column breakage (2014 production)According to Gebrauchtwagenberater, a recall covered C1s built in September and October 2014: the steering column could break and, in the worst case, cause loss of steering. The part is replaced at the workshop.
  17. 17Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C3 Aircross IManufacturing defect in the steering column (built June-July 2019)Citroën recalled C3 Aircross I cars built in June and July 2019 because a manufacturing defect in the steering column can cause abnormal operation and, in the worst case, a loss of control of the vehicle.
  18. 18Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat Doblò IMissing weld on the steering column shaft: possible loss of steeringIn 2006 a recall was issued in the United Kingdom (DVSA R/2006/138) for Doblòs, MPV and van, built in March and April 2006: the weld on the steering shaft at the lower universal joint could be missing, with possible loss of steering. It appears in the British register and we have not been able to confirm its scope in Spain.
  19. 19Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalFord RangerSteering column that can separate from the intermediate shaft because of a loose boltCampaign 22S64 covers 1,215 Rangers built between 12 January and 17 September 2021: a loose bolt can allow the steering column to separate from the intermediate shaft, with loss of steering and a risk of accident.
  20. 20Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalFord Transit Connect IFatigue fracture of the cast steering wheel hubYes: the ADAC lists a December 2009 recall for a possible fatigue fracture of the cast steering wheel hub on units built in July and August 2007, which could let the steering wheel come loose from the column. It includes the first-generation Transit Connect Kastenwagen. The workshop replaces the steering wheel free of charge in about half an hour.
  21. 21Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHonda CR-V VElectric power steering (EPS) failure from grease loss in the gear reducerYes, in the CR-V hybrids (e:HEV) and plug-in hybrids (e:PHEV) built in 2023 and 2024: with use, the grease in the electric power steering reducer diminishes, the steering torque becomes irregular, and noise or a dangerous seizing when turning may occur. Honda corrects it with a new spring and grease.
  22. 22Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai i30 ISteering column bolts that loosen (recall)According to Gebrauchtwagenberater.de, there was a recall for the i30 FD (built from April 2007 to March 2008 and from September 2010 to May 2012) because a steering column bolt could loosen and, in the worst case, leave the car without steering. Two bolts on the universal joint were retightened.
  23. 23Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalIveco Daily IVSteering input shaft to rack fixing bolt not tightenedIn a batch of Iveco Dailys built between August and November 2006, the steering input shaft may not have been properly secured to the rack, with a risk of losing steering. The campaign consisted of checking the bolt and its torque marking.
  24. 24Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Soul IILoose joint between the steering column and the steering box: three recallsSafety Gate recorded three notices about the steering of the Soul built between July 2013 and September 2015 (in 2014, 2016 and 2018). They describe a loose joint between the column or the rod and the steering box, and a steering box fault that could leave the driver unable to steer the car.
  25. 25Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalLancia Ypsilon IIISteering rack rod locknut not tightened enough (March 2022 cars)Yes, there was a recall: 174 Ypsilon cars built between 21 and 30 March 2022 may have left the factory with the steering rack rod locknut not tightened properly, with a risk of losing control of the car. It is a very limited campaign: confirm your chassis number at an authorised dealer.
  26. 26Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase A W176Incorrectly drilled hole in the steering jointMercedes-Benz recalled a batch of A-Class W176 cars built between November 2016 and July 2017 because a drilled hole in the steering shaft joint had incorrect dimensions, with a risk of the joint separating.
  27. 27Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase B W246Incorrect drilled hole in the steering jointMercedes-Benz recalled a batch of B-Class cars built between 30 November 2016 and 14 July 2017 because a drilled hole in the steering universal joint had incorrect specifications, with a risk that steering function may be affected.
  28. 28Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase C W204Corrosion of the aluminium steering box boltsIn 2024 Mercedes-Benz recalled C-Class cars built between late 2010 and 2016 because the three aluminium bolts that secure the steering box can loosen or break through the ingress of water and sand, weakening the steering.
  29. 29Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase C W206Steering coupling failure with a risk of loss of controlYes: Mercedes-Benz registered a campaign for the C-Class W206 because the steering column coupling can fail, which can lead to loss of control of the vehicle.
  30. 30Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase E W212Corrosion of the aluminium steering gear boltsIn 2024 Mercedes-Benz recalled E-Class cars built between late 2010 and late 2016 - practically the whole production life of the W212 - because the three aluminium bolts on the steering gear can loosen or break through the ingress of water and sand, weakening the steering.
  31. 31Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase G W463Poorly tightened steering column coupling with wear and a risk of losing steering control (2012 to 2017)Yes: a Safety Gate alert (A12/0572/17) and a DVSA campaign (R/2017/146) cover G-Class vehicles built from June 2012 to early 2017 because the bolted connection of the steering column coupling had too little torque, wears, and could stop transmitting the steering wheel's rotation to the steering box. The coupling is replaced.
  32. 32Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase V W447Corrosion of the aluminium bolts on the power steering housing with loss of assistanceYes: a 2019 campaign covers V-Class and Vito models from 2013 to 2016 (166,573 vehicles worldwide, 74,634 in Germany) because aluminium bolts in the power steering can corrode and cause a loss of assistance. The workshop replaces them with steel bolts and treats the steering housing with wax.
  33. 33Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GL X164Breakage or corrosion of the aluminium steering box boltsMercedes has recalled the GL twice over the aluminium steering box bolts: in 2023 for possible breakage and in 2024 for corrosion caused by water and salt. If a bolt gives way, steering assistance can be lost.
  34. 34Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GL / GLS X166Breakage or corrosion of the aluminium steering gear boltsMercedes has recalled the GL and GLS X166 twice over the aluminium bolts of the steering gear: in 2023 for possible breakage and in 2024 for corrosion caused by water and salt. If a bolt gives way, steering assistance may be lost.
  35. 35Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLC X253Steering rack mounting working loose (models up to 2017)On GLC X253 models built up to 2017, the steering rack mounting can work loose, with a risk of losing power assistance; an additional testimony confirms a faulty rack on a GLC 250d.
  36. 36Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLC X254Steering coupling fault with risk of losing steeringYes: Safety Gate alert SR/03352/25 (Mercedes code 4691007) covers 17,606 vehicles worldwide (C-Class, EQE and GLC built from 2 March 2022 to 23 July 2025) for a manufacturing defect in the coupling between the steering wheel and the steering box, which can work loose and cause a loss of steering.
  37. 37Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan Micra IIIPoorly tightened steering wheel retaining boltTwo separate campaigns (2003 and 2013) cover Micra III cars in which the bolt that secures the steering wheel to the steering shaft may not be properly tightened, with a risk of the steering wheel becoming loose or coming off.
  38. 38Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan NV200Defective steering wheel attachment to the steering column on the 2012 Nissan NV200Yes: Nissan recalled 2012 NV200s because the steering wheel attachment (the connecting part, according to the DVSA; the screws, according to Safety Gate) may not have the correct strength, and the wheel could come off the column under high force, with loss of steering control. It is inspected and, where necessary, the steering wheel assembly is replaced.
  39. 39Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan NV400Steering shaft to steering box joint poorly tightened on the Nissan NV400 (2016-2017)Yes: Nissan recalled NV400s built between 12 May 2016 and 6 June 2017 because the joint between the steering shaft and the steering box might not be properly bolted, with a risk of losing steering control. In the United Kingdom the manufacturer advised not driving them until repaired.
  40. 40Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan PrimastarCracks in the metal structure of the steering wheelYes: Primastars built between September 2012 and December 2013 may have cracks in the metal structure of the steering wheel due to a production error; in the worst case it could break and come away from the column. This is Safety Gate alert A12/1226/16 (2016), notified by Spain. It is inspected and the steering wheel replaced if necessary.
  41. 41Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan X-Trail IILoss of steering from the pinion cover bolt (2008-2009 campaigns)In 2008 and 2009 Nissan recalled X-Trail T31s in the UK over the steering rack: a bolt on the pinion cover could work loose, causing noise in the steering and, in the worst case, loss of control.
  42. 42Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Astra HIncorrect assembly of the front axle steering joint (2005-2006)Yes: according to the KBA (Germany's motor transport authority), on Astra Hs built in 2005 and 2006 the guide joint of the right steering arm may not have been properly assembled with the wheel knuckle, which can make the car unstable while driving. It is a factory assembly defect corrected by a campaign, not a wear-related fault.
  43. 43Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Corsa DRisk of the steering intermediate shaft breakingYes: in 2014 Opel recalled around 8,000 Corsa D and Adam cars built from May 2014 because the steering intermediate shaft could break and cause a total loss of control of the steering wheel; the brand itself asked owners not to drive the car until it had been checked.
  44. 44Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Movano BSteering intermediate shaft not tightened properly on the Movano B (2015–2017): risk of losing steering controlYes: Opel recalled Movano B vans built between 2015 and 2017 because the steering intermediate shaft could be insufficiently tightened and come away from the steering rack, causing loss of steering control. In the United Kingdom, the manufacturer advised owners of affected vehicles not to drive them until they had been repaired.
  45. 45Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Vivaro AFaulty connection between the steering wheel and the steering columnYes: Safety Gate alert A12/0960/16 (August 2016) covers Vivaro vans built between 2012 and 2014 because a faulty connection between the steering wheel and the steering column can cause loss of steering. It is a preventive recall: confirm with your chassis number at an official Opel dealer.
  46. 46Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 2008 ILoss or impairment of steering control (2013-2014 production)Yes: Peugeot registered three separate campaigns between 2013 and 2014 (refs. r2014081, r2014046 and r2014051) for the risk of loss or impairment of steering control on vehicles from specific production ranges in those years. The sources consulted do not detail a common technical mechanism across the three.
  47. 47Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 207Electric power steering failureOn some cars the electric steering assistance can cut out and the steering suddenly becomes very heavy; in 2012 Peugeot recalled cars built between late January and February of that year because of a risk of steering failure.
  48. 48Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPorsche Cayenne IIISteering column bolts out of specification (recall AMB4)Porsche recalled Cayenne cars built between October 2017 and April 2021 (recall AMB4) because the bolts joining the steering column to the rack could fall outside specification, and the column could come loose, with a risk of losing steering. Around 200 units are estimated worldwide.
  49. 49Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Master IIISteering column cover not tightened properly: risk of losing steering (2016-2017)A campaign notified in the EU in April 2018 affects Masters built between 12 May 2016 and 26 June 2017: the steering column cover may not be properly tightened and, in the worst case, could cause the vehicle to lose steering.
  50. 50Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSeat TarracoCorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rackYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen, Audi and Seat recalled cars built between 2016 and 2024, including the Tarraco, because a bolt that secures the steering rack to the front axle can break through corrosion and leave the car without steering control. The repair is free at official dealers.Repair: €0
  51. 51Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalSuzuki SX4Steering column incorrectly connected to the steering gear on 2011-2012 vehiclesIn March 2012 Suzuki announced a recall of 2011-2012 SX4, Swift and Splash models because the steering column may not have been properly joined to the steering gear during assembly; in the worst case the car could be left without steering, although the manufacturer knew of no real case. In Germany it affected 826 cars.
  52. 52Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Prius IIWear of the spline on the steering column extension shaft (electric power steering)Yes: a 2012 campaign (Safety Gate alert 48/2012) covers Prius cars with electric power steering built between 2003 and 2009. The spline on the column extension shaft did not receive the correct hardening and can wear until the driver loses the ability to steer the car.
  53. 53Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Prius IILoose connections between the intermediate shaft and the sliding yoke of the steering columnYes: in 2006 Toyota recalled Prius cars built between August 2003 and the end of 2005, because the joints of the intermediate shaft with the column's sliding yoke could loosen and, if the symptoms were ignored, steering control could be lost. fiches-auto.fr identifies the column of those years as a weak point.
  54. 54Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota ProAce IIDamaged steering rack mounting (2016-2018)In 2019 Toyota recalled Proace vehicles built between October 2016 and October 2018 because the steering rack mounting could become damaged and compromise its safety; the remedy was to replace the rack and its mounting.
  55. 55Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Urban CruiserSteering column mounting bracket with insufficient strengthThe DVSA records a 2014 campaign because the bracket holding the steering column might not be strong enough if the steering wheel is turned hard to full lock repeatedly, and over time the column could come loose. The bracket is replaced on Urban Cruisers built between December 2008 and December 2009.
  56. 56Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Caddy IIICorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rackYes: since September 2026 Volkswagen, Audi and Seat have been recalling cars built between 2013 and 2024, the Caddy among them, because a bolt that secures the steering rack to the front axle subframe can corrode and break, with a risk of losing control of the steering. The replacement is free at official dealers.Repair: €0
  57. 57Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Caddy VCorrosion of the Caddy's steering box fixing boltVolkswagen is recalling the Caddy built between September 2013 and July 2024 because a steering fixing bolt can corrode through moisture and road salt and break; it is replaced free of charge with a more resistant one.
  58. 58Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen T-RocInsufficient tightening of the steering tie rodYes, on the most recent cars: in March 2026 Volkswagen recalled more than 4,000 T-Rocs built between September 2025 and February 2026 because the steering tie rod bolts may have been tightened to an insufficient torque at the factory, with a risk of the rod coming loose and the car losing the ability to steer.Repair: €0
  59. 59Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Touareg IISteering column bolt to steering box not tightened to the correct torqueSafety Gate records a recall (code 48P1) for Touaregs built between 21 December 2016 and 19 February 2019: the bolted joint between the steering shaft and the steering box may not have been tightened properly and may loosen over time, affecting steering. It covers the end of the Touareg II and the start of the Touareg III.
  60. 60Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Touareg IIIBolt joining the steering column to the steering rack not tightened to the correct torqueThe Safety Gate lists a recall (code 48P1) for Touaregs built between 21 December 2016 and 19 February 2019: the bolted connection between the steering shaft and the steering rack might not be tight enough and could work loose over time. The DVSA counts 22 Touaregs from 2018-2019 in the UK and replaces the connection.
  61. 61Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Touran IICorrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rackYes: in September 2026 Volkswagen, Audi and Seat recalled cars built between 2013 and 2024, including the Touran, because a bolt that secures the steering rack to the front axle can break through corrosion and leave the car without steering control. The repair is free at official dealers.Repair: €0
  62. 62High severityFrequency: OccasionalAbarth 500Steering box with insufficient lubrication due to water ingress: stiff or locked steering (2017 recall)Safety Gate/RAPEX issued in July 2017 (alert 29/2017) a recall of the Fiat 500 and Abarth 500 (type 312) built in March 2017: water ingress can leave the steering box with insufficient lubrication, making it stiff or locking it.
  63. 63High severityFrequency: OccasionalAlfa Romeo MiToMiTo electric power steering fault: loss of assistance and heavy spotsThis is a recurring owner complaint: the electric power steering stops assisting, either randomly or completely, or has heavy spots with the warning light on. The fiches-auto.fr entry records 23 mentions out of 297 owner reports; we have not found an official campaign.
  64. 64High severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW X3 F25Play and tight spots in the steering rackAccording to reports collected by fiches-auto.fr, the X3 F25's steering rack is the most-cited non-engine problem: knocking, play and a tight spot near the centre of the steering wheel, with racks replaced from around 48,000 km and some owners having several replacements.Appears at around 48,000 km
  65. 65High severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C3 PicassoPower steering failureThe page records 20 cases of power steering failure between 50,000 and 130,000 km.
  66. 66High severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat Ducato IIISteering rack with insufficient lubrication: steering getting heavier (2006-2007 units)Yes: in 2007 Ducatos built between July 2006 and June 2007 were recalled because lubricant was missing between the steering rack and pinion, which could make the steering wheel harder to turn and damage the teeth of the rack. The figures are from the British DVSA.
  67. 67High severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai i20 IThe electric power steering stiffens when parking and the rack or column can failThe i20's electric power steering can go into overheat protection during repeated parking manoeuvres, stiffening for several minutes until it cools; fiches-auto.fr also documents cases of the steering rack and the whole column being replaced, with noises and play as earlier symptoms.
  68. 68High severityFrequency: OccasionalInfiniti Q50Direct adaptive steering (DAS) unit software: off-centre steering wheel and larger turning circleYes: Q50s with direct adaptive steering (DAS, a steer-by-wire system) were recalled because a software error could leave the steering wheel off-centre, make the car feel as if it pulls to one side, and increase the turning circle. It is corrected by reprogramming the control unit.
  69. 69High severityFrequency: OccasionalMazda CX-60Steering rack with excess friction in the worm gear: the steering wheel can suddenly stiffenYes, there is a recall (AR001A) for CX-60s built between March 2022 and December 2023: excess friction in the worm gear of the steering rack can cause the steering effort to increase suddenly. Safety Gate classifies it as a serious alert and it is corrected at an authorised workshop.
  70. 70High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase V W447Faulty fixing of the steering wheel height adjustment that can give way in a frontal crash (November 2023 to March 2024)Yes: Safety Gate alert 7/2025 (SR/00601/25) covers V-Class, EQV, Vito and eVito models built between 10 November 2023 and 13 March 2024 because the steering wheel height adjustment may not be properly secured and could give way in a frontal crash, which would worsen the driver's injuries.
  71. 71High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Vito W447Defective steering wheel height adjustment mounting that may give way in a frontal crash (November 2023 to March 2024)Yes: Vito, V-Class, EQV and eVito vehicles built between 10 November 2023 and 13 March 2024 may have a badly secured steering wheel height adjustment, which in a frontal crash might not withstand the impact and worsen the driver's injuries (Safety Gate, alert 7/2025).
  72. 72High severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan Micra IIIElectric power steering failureElectric power steering is one of the most frequently cited weak points of the Micra III: the assist motor, the torque sensor or the control unit can fail, leaving the steering heavier or causing intermittent loss of assistance.
  73. 73High severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan NV400The NV400 instrument cluster with PREM3 equipment may not warn of a steering fault (2017)According to the British DVSA, in some PREM3 variant NV400s built between March and November 2017 the warning light did not come on when there was a steering fault, because of an incorrect software configuration of the instrument cluster. It is fixed with a software update.
  74. 74High severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Combo DDefective steering gear housing, with a risk of oil leaks and reduced power assistance (2018 Combo D)In August 2018 a recall of 2018 model year Combo D vehicles, built up to July that year, was published in the European RAPEX alert system (alert 33/2018, sent by Portugal) because the steering gear housing could be defective and cause an oil leak and reduced steering assistance.
  75. 75High severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Combo EDamaged steering linkage (track rods), with loss of stabilityIn 2019-2020 units, the steering linkage (track rods) can become damaged, with loss of driving stability and a greater risk of an accident; the Peugeot Rifter and the Citroën Berlingo III had an official campaign for a defect in the same component over a similar period.
  76. 76High severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 2008 IIVibrations, play or failure of the power steering columnSome Peugeot 2008 II models show vibrations, play in the steering wheel or abnormal noises from the power steering column, with documented cases of a failed column between about 11,500 and 23,500 km; in one of them, Peugeot covered only part of the cost outside warranty.Appears at around 11,500 km
  77. 77High severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Master IISteering wheel loose on the steering column splinesYes: in 2004 the UK DVSA recorded two campaigns over the steering wheel fixing on Masters built between September 2003 and May 2004: the tightening might not meet specification and the wheel could work loose on the column splines. The steering wheel was replaced, with a reinforced fixing.
  78. 78High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Aygo IElectric power steering failure on the Toyota Aygo IThe fiches-auto.fr page lists 9 cases of power steering cutting out during low-speed manoeuvres, with a quote of more than 2,300 euros on a 2006 car with 58,600 km.
  79. 79High severityFrequency: OccasionalVolvo S60 IIFluid leak and noise in the Volvo S60's steering rackAccording to fiches-auto.fr, there are power steering faults with fluid leaks and steering rack noise, including a rack replaced at 28,800 km because of a leak.
  80. 80Medium severityFrequency: CommonAlfa Romeo 159Premature wear of the power steering rackAccording to fiches-auto.fr, the power steering rack of the Alfa Romeo 159 is one of the faults owners cite most, with documented replacements from 60,000 to 148,000 km.Appears at around 60,000 km
  81. 81Medium severityFrequency: CommonKia Ceed IIWear of the steering ball joints and linkagesGerman periodic inspection reports point to the steering joints and suspension ball joints as systematic weak points of this generation, a pattern that matches owner reports of power steering faults and clicking noises when turning.
  82. 82Medium severityFrequency: CommonMercedes-Benz Clase C W205Tie rod wear and play in the steeringTwo German used-car analyses point out that the steering tie rod components of the C-Class W205 fail fairly often at the technical inspection (TÜV), with creaking when turning the steering wheel as the first warning.
  83. 83Medium severityFrequency: CommonOpel Astra GFragile power steering rackThe power steering rack on the Astra G appears as a systematic weak point in owner testimonials, with failures and leaks reported at around 115,000-150,000 km.Appears at around 115,000 km
  84. 84Medium severityFrequency: CommonSuzuki Jimny IIISteering box wearOn the older Jimnys the steering box often fails, and German technical inspections flag steering on almost every model year; the warning sign is steering that is heavier and imprecise.
  85. 85Critical severityFrequency: RareBMW X1 F48Steering track rod without spherical washer: possible rack breakage (built 2016-2019)Yes, there was a recall: in X1 units built between August 2016 and April 2019 a spherical washer was missing from the steering rack track rod end, which could break from wear and cause loss of control.
  86. 86Critical severityFrequency: RareBMW X2 F39Steering ball joint without washer: possible rack fracture (2017-2019 production)Yes: X2 units built between November 2017 and April 2019 were recalled because a spherical washer was missing from the steering ball joint, which could break the part and cause loss of control. The KBA refers to excessive wear of the outer track rods.
  87. 87Critical severityFrequency: RareBMW Z4 G29Fatigue fracture of the steering coupling rodYes: in 2020 an EU alert was issued that the steering coupling rod on certain Z4s built between 27/08/2018 and 01/08/2019 may break from vibration fatigue.
  88. 88Critical severityFrequency: RareCitroën C3 IIIIncorrectly fitted steering column clamp (July 2018 production)Yes: a January 2019 campaign (ref. r2019009) covers vehicles built between 4 and 12 July 2018 because of an incorrectly fitted clamp on the universal joint of the steering column, with a risk to steering control. Peugeot registered an equivalent campaign (r2019010) for the 208 with the same build dates.
  89. 89Critical severityFrequency: RareFiat 500Steering mount made of unsuitable material that can make the car harder to control (June 2021 campaign)In June 2021 Fiat opened a campaign because the steering mount on some 500 units was made of unsuitable material that could make the vehicle harder to control. The source consulted does not detail the production period or the number of cars affected.
  90. 90Critical severityFrequency: RareFiat 600Power steering motor with a crack that can lock the steering (built April-May 2024)A European campaign covers the Fiat 600 and 600e built in April-May 2024, in which a crack in the electric motor of the steering rack can release plastic pieces from the worm wheel and lock the steering.
  91. 91Critical severityFrequency: RareFiat Panda IIISteering column height adjustment mechanism on the Fiat Panda III (2018 campaign)A 2019 European campaign (Fiat code 6207) affected Pandas built between 6 and 14 September 2018 because of a possible fault in the column height adjustment mechanism, which could come unlocked while driving.
  92. 92Critical severityFrequency: RareJeep AvengerRisk of the electric power steering pinion breaking (April-May 2024 production)Yes: a 2024 campaign covers units built between 5 April and 6 May 2024 in which the pinion inside the electric power steering housing could break, causing very heavy or locked steering.
  93. 93Critical severityFrequency: RareJeep Cherokee KLPower steering pinion breakage on the 2019 CherokeeA Safety Gate alert from January 2020 covers Cherokee KL built between June and September 2019: a power steering pinion can break and lock the steering wheel, with a risk of accident.
  94. 94Critical severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz Clase S W222Corrosion of the steering box boltsMercedes recalled S-Class models built between 2010 and 2016 because the three aluminium bolts of the steering box can corrode from water and road salt. The range overlaps with the W222 only in 2013-2016.
  95. 95Critical severityFrequency: RareNissan Note ISteering pinion bearing that may be missing (2015 recall)Yes: a July 2015 European alert covered Note (E11) cars built between 27 June and 3 September 2008, because the lower needle roller bearing of the steering pinion may have been left out at the factory. Over time the pinion could disengage and cause loss of steering control.
  96. 96Critical severityFrequency: RareOpel Corsa DManufacturing deviation in the steering rack teethIn 2015 Opel recalled Corsa D and Adam cars from the 2015-2016 production years because a manufacturing deviation in the steering rack teeth could cause it to break, with a risk of a road accident.
  97. 97Critical severityFrequency: RareOpel Corsa EBadly manufactured steering rack (2017 campaign)According to Auto Express, in February 2017 Opel opened a third campaign on the Corsa over badly manufactured steering racks, separate from the 2015 suspension one; we have not found an official Spanish notification detailing it.
  98. 98Critical severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 108Steering column that could break (September 2014 production)A 2016 recall covers Peugeot 108s built from 10 to 12 September 2014: a part of the steering column assembly could break and cause loss of control of the car. Gebrauchtwagenberater puts the workshop time at around two hours.
  99. 99Critical severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 208 IIncorrectly assembled steering column (July 2018 production)Yes, through a 2019 safety campaign: in a very specific production window (6-12 July 2018), the steering column could be incorrectly assembled on its shaft and come apart, with total loss of steering. Official dealers inspected the affected vehicles free of charge.
  100. 100Critical severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 308 IRisk of steering failure (2011 and 2012 production)Yes: two independent recalls cover 308 I units for a steering risk: one from 2012 (ref. r2012119) for possible detachment of the steering on cars built between June and July 2011, and another from 2013 (ref. r2013025) for possible loss of steering control on one unit built in December 2012.
  101. 101Critical severityFrequency: RareSuzuki Swift IVSteering column poorly joined to the steering gearbox (campaign, Swift 2011-2012)According to the KBA cited by Gebrauchtwagenberater.de, Swifts from 2011 and 2012 were fitted with a poor joint between the steering column and the steering gearbox, which could lead to loss of steering.
  102. 102Critical severityFrequency: RareToyota Aygo IIThe steering column may fail and cause a loss of controlA campaign inspected Aygo cars, and their mechanical siblings the Citroën C1 and Peugeot 108, built in the last part of 2014 because of a possible failure of a part in the steering column assembly that could lead to loss of control of the vehicle.
  103. 103Critical severityFrequency: RareToyota Yaris IIThe steering column bracket can crack and loosen the steeringA 2014 recall covered second-generation Yaris built between 2005 and 2009 because the steering column mounting bracket lacked sufficient strength: it could crack after the steering wheel was repeatedly turned to full lock and leave the column loose.
  104. 104Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi A4 B7Power steering pump failure and rack wearfiches-auto.fr records power steering pump failures (with vibration in the steering wheel at idle) and the 2008 TÜV report cited by gebrauchtwagenberater.de occasionally found defective steering racks on the A4 B7.
  105. 105Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 6 E63/E64Active steering (AFS) faultThe active steering on the E63/E64 can trigger a fault warning and, according to Gebrauchtwagenberater, shift the steering wheel position by up to 90 degrees.
  106. 106Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat BravoFiat Bravo steering rack failureAccording to the reports gathered by fiches-auto.fr, a fragile steering rack appears frequently and has to be replaced between 85,000 and 95,000 km, with quoted costs of around €450 to €650. There is no official campaign.
  107. 107Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalFord Fiesta VIIPremature wear of the steering rack and track rod endsAuto Express points out that on the Fiesta VII the steering rack "doesn't last long" and that the track rod ends are not very durable either, although the repair is not usually expensive. It is a common point to check when buying a used one.
  108. 108Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalFord Mondeo IVPower steering faults (pump, rack and hoses)The Mondeo IV's power steering can fail because of the pump, the rack, the hoses or the reservoir: according to fiches-auto.fr, a pump working with metal filings from a worn rack ends up making noise and losing effectiveness; the German TÜV inspection report also lists the steering among the problem areas.
  109. 109Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalJeep Wrangler JLLoose nut on the steering intermediate shaftA British campaign (R/2019/143) covered 881 Wranglers built between October 2017 and February 2019, because the steering intermediate shaft could have a loose nut inside the universal joint gaiter. The remedy was to replace the shaft on affected units.
  110. 110Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Rio IIINoises, a tight spot or play in the power steering columnFiches-auto.fr records accounts of clicking, a tight spot or play in the electric power steering column of the Kia Rio III, and gebrauchtwagenberater.de places the steering joints among the items that fail most often in German TÜV inspections (the equivalent of the Spanish ITV).
  111. 111Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalLotus Elise S1Steering rack wearevo cites the standard rack wearing out, usually due to failing internal nylon bushes, as a common problem on the Elise S1. Refurbishment kits are available, and a faster rack from Titan is a popular upgrade.
  112. 112Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz CLK C208Wear of steering track rod ends and play in the steering boxAutoScout24 (2009) cites problems with the track rod ends on the CLK C208, and a Russian portal (2017) adds that the steering box develops play and needs an expensive overhaul, and that the power steering pump wears out frequently.
  113. 113Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalNissan X-Trail IIPlay in steering and suspension joints (TÜV)CarWiki.de, drawing on TÜV inspections, reports that the X-Trail T31 suffers worn joints with play, for example in the steering, with expensive repairs, along with lighting defects.
  114. 114Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Meriva BPower steering pump or column failureAccording to fiches-auto.fr, steering appears in 16 of the 238 testimonials about the Meriva B: a failed steering pump (one case at 61,342 km), a broken column (one case at 30,000 km), noises when turning and heavy steering. We have found no campaign or specialist press to confirm it.
  115. 115Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Zafira APower steering rack leak and wearThe Zafira A's power steering rack can develop a leak and lose effectiveness around 150,000 km; owners cite a repair of around €850 when it has to be replaced.Repair (garage): €850Appears at around 140,000 km
  116. 116Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 406Steering rack gaiters damaged and rack worn on the Peugeot 406On the 406, the steering rack gaiters are often found damaged in the Dutch APK inspections of 1996–1997 cars, and Polish owners describe racks that had to be reconditioned at around 230,000 km.
  117. 117Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 5008 IIWear of the electric power steering and the steering rackSeveral Peugeot 5008 II owners describe wear of the electric power steering that forces replacement of the whole assembly from 29,000 km, and of the steering rack at around 92,000 km, according to a reliability survey with 157 reports.
  118. 118Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Kangoo IISteering column and power steering control unit faults on the first vehiclesThe first Kangoo II vehicles, built up to 2008-2009, had documented faults in the steering column and in the power steering control unit, the latter resolved with a reprogramming; one additional report describes a loss of assistance caused by an electrical earth problem at 77,000 km.
  119. 119Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Scénic IPower steering pump and rack leaksAccording to the testimonies collected by fiches-auto.fr, the power steering pump or rack leaks fluid, and the steering becomes heavy or imprecise. No official recall is recorded.
  120. 120Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalSuzuki Swift IVSteering gearbox with play and knocking from the front axleGebrauchtwagenberater.de and the owners on AutoCentrum.pl agree: the steering gearbox of the 2010-2017 Swift can develop play and announce itself with dull knocks from the front axle; one owner had it replaced at 19,700 km.
  121. 121Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Prius IIINoise and play in the steering rack and columnAccording to the fiches-auto.fr page, several Prius III reports mention loud noise and a slight pull to the right from the steering rack, and noise and play in the column; the page cites 5 or more mentions.
  122. 122High severityFrequency: RareAlfa Romeo TonalePower steering: faulty rack or column at low mileage (Tonale)Few owners cite it, but there are cases: fiches-auto reports a steering rack ruined at 14,000 km, a column re-tightening at around 25,000 km and noises with a pull to one side. CarVerif ranks it as the second weak point of the 1.3 hybrid, with heavy steering and creaking that left one car immobilised.
  123. 123High severityFrequency: RareAudi Q5 IAudi Q5 power steering and steering rack faultsSeven testimonies out of 322 on fiches-auto.fr talk about heavy or noisy steering, a replaced steering rack and loss of assistance. It is an uncommon problem, based only on testimonies.Appears at around 100 km
  124. 124High severityFrequency: RareBMW Serie 2 F22Play and noise in the steering rackAccording to the testimonials collected by fiches-auto.fr, one owner reports play and noise in the steering rack, and another with a 235i mentions it as a recurring problem. No official campaign is on record.
  125. 125High severityFrequency: RareBMW Serie 5 G30Wear or failure of the electric steering rackThere are documented cases of electric steering rack failure on the 5 Series G30: gebrauchtwagenberater.de reports its replacement in a long-distance endurance test by BILD magazine, and fiches-auto.fr records a similar case on a 2017 540i.
  126. 126High severityFrequency: RareBMW X6 E71Wear of the steering rack and power steering pump on the X6 E71According to fiches-auto.fr, the X6 E71's power steering appears in 2 mentions: heavy steering and play in the steering rack. One testimony cites €3,700 for replacing the rack at 110,000 km, and fatigue of the electric pump is mentioned.Appears at around 110,000 km
  127. 127High severityFrequency: RareCitroën Berlingo IIIInner steering linkage out of specificationA 2020 recall (ref. R2020209) covers Berlingo IIIs built between 2 December 2019 and 18 January 2020 whose inner steering linkage (track rods) did not meet its specification.
  128. 128High severityFrequency: RareFiat 500LSteering rack failure on the Fiat 500LAccording to the owner reports collected by fiches-auto.fr, one owner had to replace the steering rack at 75,000 km because of play, and another describes a stiff steering column caused by a weak battery. These are isolated cases with no official recall.
  129. 129High severityFrequency: RareFiat SediciSteering column mounting on early carsalVolante cites a possible incorrect fitting of the steering column mounting as the only fault in the Sedici's early years. Gebrauchtwagenberater records a campaign on the SX4, its twin, for a steering column that may not have been fitted properly on 2011 and 2012 units.
  130. 130High severityFrequency: RareFord Fiesta VIII2020 recall for steering columns below standardIn January 2020 Ford recalled certain Fiesta VIII units over steering columns "below standard". Auto Express does not detail the exact failure mode or the number of vehicles affected.
  131. 131High severityFrequency: RareIveco Daily VILoose steering box mounting bolts on the 4x4 DailyThe bolts fixing the hydraulic rack to the front driving axle of some 4x4 Dailies built between May 2019 and April 2022 could loosen. Iveco replaced them and added thread locker.
  132. 132High severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz GLA X156Out-of-specification bore in the steering column universal jointA European recall covers GLAs built between November 2016 and July 2017: the bore of the steering column universal joint may be the wrong size and the joint may come loose, affecting steering.
  133. 133High severityFrequency: RareMG ZS ISteering column universal joint coming apart on the MG ZSAuto Express warns in its MG ZS buying guide that some steering columns have been replaced under warranty and that the universal joint has been found detached in at least one unit.
  134. 134High severityFrequency: RareMINI Cooper F55Steering rack ball joint without retaining collar on the 2019 Mini Cooper (recall)In 2019 Safety Gate issued an alert that Mini Coopers built between 15 March and 8 April 2019 lacked a ball joint collar disc on the steering rack ball joint, with a risk of breakage and loss of control of the wheel.
  135. 135High severityFrequency: RareOpel Mokka ASteering column recall over a fragile torque sensorAccording to the fiches-auto.fr entry, in June 2015 309 Mokkas were recalled because of a fragile torque sensor in the steering column. Safety Gate (via car-recalls.eu) records the November 2015 notice for 2015 vehicles, with a risk of losing power steering assistance.
  136. 136High severityFrequency: RarePeugeot RifterInner steering linkage out of specificationA 2020 recall (ref. r2020208) covers Rifters built between 2 December 2019 and 18 January 2020 whose inner steering linkage (track rods) did not meet its specification.
  137. 137High severityFrequency: RareSeat ExeoPower steering pump failure and steering rack leaksAccording to the fiches-auto.fr reports, there are owners with a failed power steering pump at 120,000 km (the manufacturer paid 50%) and a steering rack leak at 48,900 km. These are isolated cases on 2.0 TDI cars.
  138. 138High severityFrequency: RareŠkoda RapidSteering that binds or catches: rack replacement (action 48L7)Gebrauchtwagenberater often mentions steering that 'catches' on the Rapid and says the usual fix is to replace the complete steering gear, under service action 48L7. It is a single source and gives no details of units or years.
  139. 139Low severityFrequency: CommonToyota RAV4 IIIThe steering column makes noise and feels loose at the wheelIt is the most repeated non-engine complaint about this RAV4: more than 50 testimonies on fiches-auto.fr describe a loose steering column, with creaks or clicks from around 30,000 km; gebrauchtwagenberater.de confirms it as a creak in the steering rack that is fixed by replacing the universal joints, and describes it as a comfort problem, not a safety one.
  140. 140Medium severityFrequency: RareAlfa Romeo BreraPlay in the steering rack and steering ball joints on the BreraThe British workshop guide suggests the steering rack and ball joints can wear on high-mileage cars; it gives no mileage or frequency figures.
  141. 141Medium severityFrequency: RareAlfa Romeo Spider 939Play in the Spider's steering rack and track rod endsThe British workshop guide suggests that the steering rack and track rod ends can wear on high-mileage cars; it gives no mileage or frequency figures.
  142. 142Medium severityFrequency: RareCitroën C3 IIISteering column bearing out of specification (January 2018 production)A July 2018 campaign (ref. r2018197) covers vehicles built between 11 and 22 January 2018 because of a steering column bearing that did not meet the factory specification.
  143. 143Medium severityFrequency: RareHonda CR-V IIIPower steering rack and hydraulic hose failureAccording to the testimonials on fiches-auto.fr, 5 of 123 CR-V III owners cite power steering problems: a replaced rack and a steering hose at 210,000 km (€300 for the part, according to the testimonial).Appears at around 210,000 km
  144. 144Medium severityFrequency: RareToyota VersoSteering wheel retaining nut not tightened to the correct torque on the 2013 VersoVersos built between May and August 2013 were recalled because the nut securing the steering wheel had not been tightened to the specified torque, according to Gebrauchtwagenberater.
  145. 145Low severityFrequency: RareBMW Serie 5 F10Car pulls to one side from the steering rack on the older 5 Series F10Gebrauchtwagenberater.de indicates that some F10s built up to 2011 pull constantly to the right despite repeated wheel alignment, and that only replacing the steering rack fixes it.
  146. 146Low severityFrequency: RareBMW X1 E84Creaking from the steering column cross-joint on the X1 E84Gebrauchtwagenberater.de notes that a defective steering column cross-joint can produce creaks when manoeuvring or with the steering wheel at full lock, mainly on the older X1s.
  147. 147Low severityFrequency: RareHyundai i40Steering column clicking noise caused by the rubber damperAccording to Gebrauchtwagenberater.de, some i40 owners notice a clicking noise in the steering, attributed to a rubber damper in the steering column. The source gives no years, mileage or cost.

Steering rack and steering column: compare prices in shops

Search for the part using the make, model and engine of your car: in the shop, the registration plate or VIN filters the parts that fit.

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Problems with the steering rack and column by make

Problems with the steering rack and column in your car

9 cars have several documented faults with the steering rack and column. Choose yours to see only the ones that affect them, by engine and by year.

Abarth 1
Citroën 1
Mercedes-Benz 1
Nissan 3
Opel 1
Suzuki 1
Toyota 1

How much it costs to repair a fault with the steering rack and column

Sorted from the most expensive repair to the cheapest. Prices in Spain including VAT (parts and labour); what each figure includes is on its page.

How we calculate costs · The most expensive repairs across all engines

Frequently asked questions

Which cars have problems with the steering rack and column?

Among those we have analysed: Peugeot 208 II (poorly tightened steering track rods with risk of loss of control (2020-2021 production)), Seat Ateca (corrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rack), Volkswagen Golf VII (corrosion of the steering rack bolt), Volkswagen Tiguan II (corrosion of the bolt that secures the steering rack), Opel Meriva A (power steering faults and recall for the steering rack pinion (2007 units)), BMW Serie 1 F20 (electric power steering (EPS) and steering rack failure), BMW Serie 3 E90 (steering rack and power steering pump failure) and Fiat Punto II (electric power steering motor and column failure). In total, 138 cars with documented faults with the steering rack and column.

How much does it cost to repair a fault with the steering rack and column?

It depends a lot on the engine or car. At an independent garage, from €850 to €850; at a dealer, from €0 to €0, including VAT, based on the 10 faults with a documented cost. The most expensive is power steering rack leak and wear (Opel Zafira A).

What symptoms does a fault with the steering rack and column cause?

The most frequently cited in the documented faults: heavy steering or power steering warning, abnormal play in the steering or noises from the front axle, creaking or clicking when turning the steering wheel, power steering warning light on, car pulls to one side or steering wheel is not straight and steering wheel vibrates or shakes when driving.

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. Fiabilité Opel Zafira (1999-2005) - pannes et problèmes recensésFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  2. Rückruf bei VW, Audi & Seat: Lenkung bei 3 Mio. Pkw kann ausfallenWinFuture · General press · published 25 September 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  3. Volkswagen y Audi llaman a revisión a casi tres millones de vehículos por un posible fallo en la dirección: estos son los modelos afectadosInfobae · General press · published 25 September 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
  4. Rückruf bei VW und Audi: Lenkungsausfall droht – was tun?WirtschaftsWoche · General press · published 26 September 2026 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  5. La llamada a revisión de Volkswagen por corrosión en la dirección afecta a 2,8 millones de cochesMotor16 · Motoring press · published 26 September 2026 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
  6. Lenkung beim T-Roc kann ausfallen: VW ruft mehr als 4000 Fahrzeuge zurückNordbayern.de (Nürnberger Nachrichten) · General press · published 11 March 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in German
  7. Volkswagen, Audi y Seat llaman a revisión 2,8 millones de coches por un posible fallo de direcciónMerca2 · General press · published 26 September 2026 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish