Does a leaking steering gear have to be replaced?
1 Answers
A leaking steering gear does not necessarily need to be replaced. If the leakage is minor, it can be temporarily ignored and the vehicle can continue to be driven. However, if the leakage is severe, it is recommended to replace it directly. Repairing a leaking steering gear requires disassembly, and if the repair is not done properly, it may not only fail to fix the issue but could also lead to more complications. In such cases, it is safer to replace the steering gear outright. Most steering gear leaks are caused by the corrosion and aging of oil seals, especially in vehicles older than three years. Over time, rubber seals harden and age, and prolonged exposure to temperature changes exacerbates the problem. When the seals shrink, harden, and lose elasticity, leakage occurs. If left unaddressed for an extended period, it can lead to excessive wear and increased clearance in the steering gear rack, resulting in noise when turning or driving. In severe cases, it may cause the steering to become heavier, leading to a loss of power steering assistance.