2009_Civic

Checked the forum and couldnt find a write up on replacement.

09 Civic, not the SI. My wife ran into a curb recently and the diagnosis from the dealer states the rack and pinion and a tie rod needs replacing. They are quoting around $850 in labor so Im inclined to give it a go. I work on my Saab all the time so Im comfortable giving it a try.

Ive read up and watched a few videos on earlier model Civic rack replacements, looked simple, but couldnt find anything for the 06 and up range. The rack I found online will be around $200 plus a refundable core charge. It also indicates it comes with install instructions- but Id like to educate myself in advance.

Anyone have advice and or a link for some help, maybe a write up? I bought the Chilton manual and it doesnt have s@#$ for instruction on this specific job.

2009_Civic

Also, this is one of the options I have for a replacement rack..

http://www.car-stuff.com/carparts/ho...tings+Page%3A1

Anyone have experience with this vendor, good/bad?

DCFIVER

Why does the rack need to be replaced? Leaking? Generally the tie rod is the only thing that will be damaged in the event of hitting a curb.

2009_Civic

She hit the curb earlier this year when there was ice- wheel was turned so she his it flat at about 20 mph. We had a tie rod and knuckle replaced and the frame straightened a bit. Steering basically froze up the other day and the car only turns one direction- towed it to the dearlership who stated the inside of the rack is mangled. Is there an easy way to test that?

DCFIVER

I would get a second opinion. Take it to a shop and tell them what happened. Do no tell them what the dealer recommended. Let the shop diagnose the problem with out any prejudice.

2009_Civic

Allright, I found the invoice from the first set of repairs in December.

They squared the subframe for $250 and replaced the control arm for $140 labor and $169 in parts + alignment $60.

Total spent in Dec $674.41

I thought they did other work for some reason. Anyway, thats what was done.

So other than get another opinion, any advice on the install?

2009_Civic

Good news,
We spoke with the insurance folks and they are getting everything covered under one claim so- adding these repairs on the previous $700. So we wont be going out of pocket anymore and we're letting the dealership have at it.

Thanks for the advice, If this happens again I think Ill start with the tie rods and go from there.

Based on my wifes driving habits, Im sure I'll be back .