Steering Gear Repair or Replacement?
2 Answers
When the steering gear is damaged, it can be repaired, but replacement costs are higher. Below are the symptoms and causes of steering gear damage: Symptoms of Damage: The main symptom of a damaged steering gear is a knocking or rattling noise during driving, especially when turning the steering wheel. There are many potential causes for steering gear noise, and the noise is a noticeable sign. Therefore, it should be inspected and repaired at a 4S shop immediately upon discovery to avoid compromising driving safety. Causes of Noise: There are many potential causes for steering gear noise, generally related to issues such as low power steering fluid, universal joint problems, or faulty plane bearings. Many modern cars feature vacuum-assisted steering, but this only reduces the driver's effort—the actual load on the steering gear remains unchanged. Turning the steering wheel while stationary for long periods not only places excessive stress on the steering gear but also accelerates tire surface wear and reduces tire lifespan. An effective way to minimize steering gear wear is to reduce the load it bears during operation.
When the steering gear has issues, whether to repair or replace it, I need to consider both cost and safety. A few years ago, my old car's steering gear made strange noises. I went to a repair shop and spent a couple hundred yuan to replace a bearing, saving some money, but half a year later, it started leaking oil, making the effort pointless. Later, when I got a new car and the steering system had problems, I directly replaced it with an original part for over a thousand yuan, and it’s been fine for three years now. Repairing is suitable for older cars or owners on a tight budget, while replacement is better for new cars or high-mileage vehicles—after all, the steering system is critical for driving safety. If it fails at high speed, it could lead to serious accidents. My personal experience is that minor repairs can be a temporary fix, but for major issues, it’s better to replace it outright—safety first.
