Shaky Steering: Mechanic Says Steering Gearbox Needs Replacement

[dhoff86]

We bought our 2006 Montana used less than one year ago with 60,000 miles on it. We had a mechanic check it out then, and he said it looked great.

Lately, it's been vibrating when we turn at low speeds. The wheel gets a bit stubborn, and I have to put a bit more muscle into turning the wheel.

We took it to a dealership and they said the steering gearbox needs to be replaced, and they estimate $875. Does that seem like a fair price? Does that sound like an accurate diagnosis?

I was thinking power steering pump or something more common like that. I've never had a problem with a steering gearbox, never known anyone who has.

Any thoughts would be very appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Zimgxp]

Steering box or the steering rack? Price doesn't seem outrageous to me.

 

[dhoff86]

Thanks for replying. The mechanic clearly said steering gear box, which sounded like kind of an outdated term to me.

 

[melsg5]

a rack and pinion from autozone is $209, did you get a breakdown between parts and labor? Have you tried a second opinion?

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[dhoff86]

I did get a second opinion for a local shop. They said it was the rack and pinion and estimated about $400. We decided to go there. My only concern is that maybe it's more than just the rack and pinion. Maybe this mysterious "gear box" is more complex?? I'm putting faith in my local shop mechanics, though, that come recommended.

 

[melsg5]

there is no gear box on these vehicles, it is called a rack and pinion

 

[gregd]

Well it sounds like both places say you need a new rack. 875 sounds like the price most places would charge for the complete job if not higher. $400 sounds like a great deal to me.
I hope they are correct in saying you need a new steering rack. My experience has been when they go bad you get hard spots and knocking noises when turning.
I replaced the power steering rack on my 1998 with an autozone rack. The first one leaked like crazy after only 2 years. Got a free replacement under warranty. But replacing it twice didn't really make me happy.