Should I replace the rack and pinion on my 2016 Jeep Patriot?

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May 9, 2025 at 7:35 pm #797 Reply
Stephanie
2016 Jeep Patriot, 2.4L, 204,000km

A shop is saying my rack and pinion will need replaced in approx 3–6 months.

I have new tie rods, and for the last 50k various inspections have said the rack and pinion has play.

I have no drifting, no steering difficulties, I do notice some play in the steering wheel when parked.

I currently have my vehicle at the shop and am not sure if I should have it replaced or leave it, and hope it lasts longer than the 3–6 months estimate.

Thank you for your help!
May 9, 2025 at 7:36 pm #798 Reply
Steve
Wow, I didn’t know parts had a date count down system.

Either the ‘play’ is within specs or it’s not, it’s impossible to say that it needs replacing in a certain time frame.

What if you just drove 100 miles and parked it for 5 months, would it still need replacing then ? Find another shop that knows what they are talking about.
May 9, 2025 at 7:36 pm #799 Reply
Dane
I find rack play frequently on vehicles.

My own personal car has had rack play for 75k miles. I always let customers know but if inner/outer tie rods are good usually the rack will be fine.

A lot of time, shops mistake rack play for inner tie rods.

If you start experiencing issues, I would think about replacing it, but I personally wouldn’t bother at this point.

Honestly, the rack will probably outlive the jeep.
May 9, 2025 at 7:36 pm #800 Reply
Melanie
Did you replace just the outer tie rods? If the rack isn’t leaking, and the inner tie rods have play, just replace the inner tie rods.
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Should I replace the rack and pinion on my 2016 Jeep Patriot?

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