Ford Taurus Rack and Pinion Steering: A Guide for 1987-1998 Models
Address your Taurus's steering wander, leaks, or noises with the right replacement rack and pinion.
- For 1987-1995 models, inspect the subframe for severe rust before proceeding, due to a major safety recall.
- This is a difficult replacement that often requires lowering the subframe; it is not recommended for novice DIYers.
- Budget for a professional wheel alignment immediately after the replacement to prevent tire damage and ensure safety.
- Aftermarket brands vary in quality; Cardone is a budget choice while BBB Industries is often considered a more reliable remanufactured option.
Is Your Ford Taurus Rack and Pinion Failing?
A worn-out rack and pinion is a common issue on older vehicles like the 1987-1998 Ford Taurus. Symptoms often start small but can become serious safety concerns. Ignoring them can lead to a complete loss of steering control.
Common Failure Symptoms:
- Power Steering Fluid Leaks: Finding reddish or pink fluid puddles under the front of your car is a classic sign of failing seals within the rack.
- Stiff or Loose Steering: The steering wheel may feel unusually heavy and difficult to turn, or it might feel loose with a noticeable "dead spot" when you begin to turn.
- Grinding or Clunking Noises: Listen for grinding, clunking, or knocking sounds when you turn the steering wheel. This often points to worn internal gears.
- Vehicle Wandering: If you constantly have to make small corrections to keep the car driving straight, the rack may have excessive play.
Known Issue: Subframe Corrosion Recall (1987-1995)
For 1987-1995 Ford Taurus models, particularly those driven in salt-belt regions, a critical recall was issued for subframe corrosion. The subframe, which holds the engine and steering rack, can rust at its mounting points. If these mounts fail, the subframe can drop, causing a sudden and severe loss of steering control. Before replacing your steering rack, inspect the rear subframe mounts for significant rust or damage. A separate recall for some 1987 models involved a steering shaft that could detach, also resulting in a total loss of steering.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Rack and Pinion
For a vehicle of this age, a new aftermarket rack is a practical choice over a hard-to-find and expensive new OEM part. Aftermarket parts are designed to be direct-fit replacements. Your main choice will be between different brands, which often fall into different quality and price tiers.
- Cardone: Often the most budget-friendly option. Forum discussions show mixed reviews from owners; some have had no issues, while others report premature failures. It can be a viable choice if the budget is the primary concern, but it may carry a higher risk of needing to be replaced again sooner.
- BBB Industries: Generally seen by owners as a step up from base-level brands. Forum users have reported a lower rate of problems with BBB remanufactured parts compared to other budget options. This brand can be a good middle-ground for quality and cost.
Pro Tip: Most aftermarket racks for this Taurus are remanufactured. This means an original OEM core has been rebuilt with new seals, O-rings, and other wear items. Always ensure the system is thoroughly flushed of old, contaminated fluid before installing the new rack to prevent immediate damage.
Cost to Replace a 1987-1998 Ford Taurus Rack and Pinion
The total cost involves the part itself, labor, and a mandatory wheel alignment afterward.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $182.60 - $393.33 |
| Remanufactured Part | $155 - $350 |
| Shop Labor | $360 - $525 |
| Wheel Alignment | $80 - $150 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $595 - $1,025+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the rack and pinion myself?
This is a difficult job not recommended for beginners. The process often requires supporting the engine and lowering the front subframe to get enough clearance to remove the old rack. It requires specialized tools and a high level of mechanical experience. If you are not comfortable with a job of this scale, it is best left to a professional mechanic.
Do I really need a wheel alignment after replacement?
Yes, an alignment is absolutely necessary. Replacing the rack and pinion assembly, including the inner tie rods that come with most kits, will change your vehicle's toe settings. Skipping the alignment will cause rapid and uneven tire wear and can make the vehicle handle poorly.
What's the difference between a new and a remanufactured rack?
A new rack is made entirely of new components. A remanufactured (reman) rack starts with a used original part (the core), which is disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt with new seals, gaskets, and other wearable parts to meet or exceed original specifications. For the 1987-1998 Taurus, most available aftermarket options are remanufactured.
My rack is leaking. Can I just use a "stop leak" fluid?
Stop leak additives are a temporary fix at best. They work by swelling the rubber seals to slow a minor leak. However, they cannot fix a significant leak or any mechanical wear inside the rack. Using them may delay, but will not prevent, the need for a replacement.
Technical Specifications
System Type: Hydraulic Power Assist. Inner tie rods are typically included with new and remanufactured aftermarket assemblies. OEM part numbers vary significantly by year and model (SHO vs. non-SHO). Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Taurus: