Mercury Sable Steering Rack and Pinion Replacement Guide (1987-1998)
Experiencing loose steering, leaks, or strange noises? Your 1987-1998 Mercury Sable may need a new rack and pinion.
- The most common failure symptom is a leak of reddish power steering fluid.
- Aftermarket quality varies; forum users generally prefer BBB Industries over Cardone for this part.
- A full system flush and a wheel alignment are mandatory after replacement to prevent premature failure and ensure safety.
- Owners of 1987 models should be aware of a critical recall regarding steering shaft separation that can cause a total loss of control.
Is Your Sable's Steering Rack Failing?
The rack and pinion in the 1987-1998 Mercury Sable is a hydraulic system that can wear out over time. The most common failures involve the internal seals, which lead to power steering fluid leaks. Here are the top symptoms to watch for:
- Power Steering Fluid Leaks: This is the most common sign. You may see puddles of reddish or pink fluid under the front of your car. Leaks can come from the rack itself, the boots, or the connecting hoses.
- Steering Feels Loose or Vague: You might notice a "dead spot" when you turn the wheel, where nothing happens for a moment. This can feel like excessive play or wandering, making it hard to keep the car straight.
- Difficult or Stiff Steering: If turning the wheel suddenly requires a lot of effort, especially at low speeds, the rack may be failing or low on fluid.
- Clunking or Knocking Noises: Worn internal gears or mounting bushings can cause clunking, popping, or knocking sounds when you turn the wheel or go over bumps.
- Grinding Noise When Turning: A grinding sound often indicates metal-on-metal contact inside the rack, usually from a severe lack of lubrication due to a fluid leak.
Important Safety Recall for 1987 Models
There was a recall for some 1987 Mercury Sable models (NHTSA Campaign ID: 86V144000) for steering shafts that could be too short. This defect could cause the shaft to separate, leading to a complete loss of steering control. While this is a separate part from the rack itself, it is a critical safety issue for owners of this model year to be aware of.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Rack and Pinion
For a vehicle of this age, a new aftermarket rack and pinion is a cost-effective choice compared to a new OEM part, which may be expensive or hard to find. The quality of aftermarket parts can vary, so it's important to understand the brands available.
- BBB Industries: Forum users and mechanics often view BBB Industries as a higher-quality aftermarket option. Some BBB remanufactured parts have been noted to come with quality control checklists and test results, suggesting better manufacturing processes.
- Cardone: Cardone is a widely available brand, but it has a mixed-to-negative reputation in online forums for steering components. Many users report high failure rates or receiving defective parts, advising to "avoid Cardone at all costs." While they offer a good warranty, you may be replacing the part more than once.
Pro Tip: When replacing your rack and pinion, it is critical to flush the entire power steering system to remove any old, contaminated fluid or metal debris. Failure to do so can cause your new rack to fail prematurely. Also, an alignment is not optional after this repair; it is required to ensure your vehicle drives straight and does not wear out your tires.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace a rack and pinion can vary significantly based on the parts you choose and local labor rates. The job is complex and can take a professional 4-6 hours.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $182 - $230 |
| Remanufactured Part | $115 - $200 |
| New OEM Part | $530 - $565 |
| Shop Labor | $370 - $550 |
| Total Professional Job (Aftermarket) | $552 - $780 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the rack and pinion myself?
This is an advanced DIY job. It requires safely lifting the vehicle, removing wheels, disconnecting tie rods, and handling high-pressure fluid lines. On some Taurus/Sable models, you may need to lower the front subframe for access, which adds significant complexity. If you are not an experienced home mechanic, this job is best left to a professional.
Do I need an alignment after replacing the rack?
Yes, a full four-wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing the rack and pinion. The new rack will not be perfectly aligned with your steering knuckles, and skipping the alignment will cause poor handling and rapid, uneven tire wear.
What kind of power steering fluid does my Sable use?
For this generation of Ford/Mercury vehicles, the recommended power steering fluid is typically MERCON or MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), not a dedicated power steering fluid. Always check your owner's manual or a reliable service manual to confirm the correct fluid for your specific year.
Are the inner tie rods included with the new rack?
Most new and remanufactured rack and pinion assemblies come with new inner tie rods and bellows boots already installed. You will typically need to purchase outer tie rod ends separately, and it is highly recommended to replace them at the same time.
Technical Specifications
Hydraulic Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly. Typically includes inner tie rods and boots.
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.
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