1992 325i Steering Rack Leak

[genners07]

I'm a new BMW owner and have a 1992 325i with 150K+ miles. Last week, I hit the curb pretty hard coming down a hill when I slid on ice and my anti-lock brakes malfunctioned. Now, I'm having steering problems. There's a lot of play in the wheel. I took it to get it aligned, but they said I had to take it to a BMW mechanic because they think it has a steering rack leak. I'm taking it to BMW today, and wanted to be prepared and knowledgeable so they didn't take advantage of me (since I'm a girl and know little about cars). Can anyone give me a good idea of how much it is to repair a steering rack leak? From the smallest to the greatest amount? Thanks so much!

[njtech]

genners,

depending on where you live...labor rates differ. Here in NJ you can expect to pay anywhere from $625-$850 depending on the steering rack. If you need further assistance ...email.

Steve

[MrM3]

a rebuilt steering rack would cost you around 400-500, a good used one could cost around 300-400. i dont think the book time on a steering rack replacement is that high (>3hrs), but you will need an allignment afterwards, and it may be smart to replace your tie rods while your at it. i think if you take it to a bmw or european car specialist you could get the job done for $700 or less, but i wouldnt even want to guess what a dealer would charge.

[genners07]

Originally posted by MrM3@Feb 7 2005, 10:00 PM
a rebuilt steering rack would cost you around 400-500, a good used one could cost around 300-400. i dont think the book time on a steering rack replacement is that high (>3hrs), but you will need an allignment afterwards, and it may be smart to replace your tie rods while your at it. i think if you take it to a bmw or european car specialist you could get the job done for $700 or less, but i wouldnt even want to guess what a dealer would charge.

[snapback]287612[/snapback]

Looks like I'm buying a new car. More wrong than the steering rack. I'm looking at $4K to fix it. Not worth my time. Do you know of anyone interested in buying scrap cars? Thanks.