[mazda3415]

I've been getting some noise coming from the front of my car when I turn my steering wheel. Then I started noticing that I would get some popping sounds when turning and driving over small bumps on the road. Took the car to the shop and they said that the steering wheel rack needs to be replaced, he said that one of the bushings are worn out. They are charging me about $700 for the steering wheel rack. Just wondering if theres a cheaper alternative or a cheaper place to buy the steering wheel rack. Thanks just trying to save some money.

 

[arathol]

First, get a second opinion. Second, if its just a bushing, why replace the whole rack?

 

[MrBen]

Sounds more like the ball joint - Replacing the lower front arms (ball joint) Mazda OEM Part is about $250cdn

 

[Fauropitotto]

https://www.carparts.com/results/?N...+4294951756+4294952432+4294965981&universal=0

$375 for the whole thing, but why not replace the bushing? If it's the tie rod, carparts.com has them for ~ $8. Eight whole whopping dollars.


You need to get a second opinion.

 

[mazda3415]

They said its not the tie rod 2 shops had said that, but what arathol said, ill get a second opinion on the steering rack and see what the issue is before I get anything replaced.

 

[mazda3415]

So I got a second opinion and they said it is my steering rack so I need to get it replaced. I have been looking online for cheaper alternatives vs OEM. Obviously OEM is better but im trying to save some money so I've looked into rockauto and they have a few steering racks from different companies. I have them listed below. Anyone have any opinions as to which company is better?
They all have 2 year warranty, and are about the same price which is around $400.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=5693241&cc=1447280&jsn=10&jsn=10
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=5746785&cc=1447280&jsn=11
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=7040968&cc=1447280&jsn=9

This one is from Rack Doctor and it is much cheaper $370 and if I return my old unit I get a $100 refund so its about $270.

https://shop.rackdoctor.net/2010-2012-Mazda-3-non-Mazdaspeed-Rack-and-Pinion-26995-30492.htm