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.

 

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?

 

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.

 

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?

 

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.

 

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?

 

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 .