A Ford Mechanic's Guide to the 2008-2013 Taurus Rack and Pinion Assembly
Steering problems in your Taurus? Here's what you need to know before replacing the rack and pinion.
- A recall for 2011-2013 models means you should check with a Ford dealer first, as you may be eligible for a free repair.
- Symptoms include suddenly stiff steering, grinding noises, and a 'Power Steering Assist Fault' warning on electronic models.
- This is a difficult, labor-intensive job. Choosing a low-quality, cheap part can lead to doing the entire job over again.
- A wheel alignment is not optional; it is a required step after replacing the steering rack to ensure safety and prevent tire wear.
Is Your Taurus Steering Rack Failing?
A failing steering rack isn't just an inconvenience; it's a major safety issue. For the 2008-2013 Ford Taurus, symptoms can appear suddenly. You might notice the steering wheel becomes very difficult to turn, especially at slow speeds in a parking lot. This can be an intermittent problem at first. Other signs include grinding or groaning noises when you turn, a feeling that the car is wandering on the road, or, for hydraulic systems, visible power steering fluid leaks under the front of your car. For the 2011-2013 models with electronic steering, a "Power Steering Assist Fault" message on your dashboard is a direct warning of a system failure.
Known Issues: Recalls and TSBs
There is a major safety recall for many 2011-2013 Ford Taurus vehicles (NHTSA Campaign: 15V340). This recall addresses a defect in the electronic steering rack that can cause a sudden loss of power steering assist while driving. The fix involves a dealer checking for trouble codes and either updating the control module software or replacing the entire steering gear. Separately, Ford also issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for some 2008 Taurus models for uneven steering effort, which also recommends replacing the steering gear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Rack: A Quality Breakdown
When replacing the rack and pinion, you'll face a choice between remanufactured and new aftermarket parts. The quality can vary greatly between brands, and since this is a labor-intensive job, you don't want to do it twice.
- Economy Tier (e.g., Mapco, some store brands): These are the most affordable options. Brands like Mapco are often described as basic, mass-produced parts that get the job done on a budget. While they meet the basic requirements, their long-term durability can be inconsistent. They might be a choice for a beater car, but consider the labor cost if it fails early.
- Standard/Remanufactured Tier (e.g., BBB Industries, Accudrive): This is a mixed bag. Remanufactured parts are rebuilt OEM cores. However, the quality depends entirely on the rebuilder. Brands like BBB Industries have received very poor reviews from mechanics and DIYers, with reports of units failing or leaking soon after installation. It is a high-risk choice. Information on Accudrive is limited, making it hard to judge its quality.
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Atlantic Automotive Enterprise - AAE): Brands like AAE specialize in steering components and often engineer their parts to meet or exceed original specifications. They offer both new and high-quality remanufactured units tested in the USA. While more expensive than economy brands, they provide a better balance of quality and value compared to the much higher cost of an OEM part.
Pro Tip: Given the high labor cost for this job, spending a little more on a quality new or premium remanufactured rack from a brand like AAE is a wise investment. Avoiding the cheapest options can save you from having to pay for the same repair twice.
Cost to Replace Your Taurus Steering Rack
Replacing a rack and pinion is a significant repair. The total cost will depend on the part you choose and local labor rates. An alignment is always required after the job is done, adding to the final cost.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $247 - $947 |
| New OEM Part | $990 - $1,110 |
| Remanufactured Part | $150 - $550 |
| Shop Labor | $360 - $525 |
| Wheel Alignment | $80 - $150 |
| TOTAL (Professional Job) | $800 - $1,800+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a DIY job for a home mechanic?
This is an advanced repair. It requires lifting the vehicle securely, and you may need to drop the front subframe to get the old rack out and the new one in. It also requires special tools and a mandatory wheel alignment afterward. For most people, this job is best left to a professional mechanic.
Do I need to replace the power steering pump too?
Not necessarily. On hydraulic systems (2008-2010), if the pump is not whining and is producing proper pressure, it can be reused. However, if metal shavings from a failed rack have circulated through the system, the entire system including the pump and lines should be flushed thoroughly. On electronic systems (2011-2013), the assist motor is part of the rack assembly, so there is no separate pump.
Do I need to program the new steering rack?
For the 2011-2013 models with Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), the new rack may need to be programmed to the vehicle using a compatible scan tool. Some remanufactured units for electronic systems require programming with specific OEM software. Always check the instructions that come with the new part.
What kind of power steering fluid should I use?
For the 2008-2010 hydraulic systems, always consult your owner's manual or the fluid cap for the correct type of power steering fluid. Using the wrong fluid can damage seals and cause system failure. Ford vehicles typically require a Mercon-rated fluid. The 2011-2013 EPAS systems do not use any fluid.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8A5Z3504E 8A5Z3504C 8A5Z3504D 8A8Z3504C AA8Z3504B 8G1Z3504C 8G1Z3504B
Fits 2008-2013 Ford Taurus. Note the distinction between hydraulic power steering for 2008-2010 models and Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) for 2011-2013 models. The parts are not interchangeable.
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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