Just went to the mechanic to get my belts changed...I started hearing power steering noises 2 days ago.....it comes out that I need a new Rack & Pinion (whatever that is) it has something to do with power steering...anyway, the part runs between $800-$1200 he's unsure...WTF!!!

He said that this is a common problem in the Maximas...Did anyone else ever had this problem?

 

He is lying to you. Almost nobody on here has issues with their rack and pinion. I'd definately get a 2nd opinion on your car.

 

what a terrible mechanic, definately go to another place get an opinion, dont tell them that someone said the r and p is out, they will just agree to try and hijack ur money!

 

well, something is leaking power steering fluid.... he showed me where the r & p is and it was all wet from the fluid..... darn....i'll have to go and find out somewhere else....

 

Hot damn!! That guy is lying....but he might be talking about a brand new one. Well, I had my rack and pinion, both cv boots, and 75,000 mile maint done for $750...the used rack and pinions are about 3-350...hope this helps. Rack and pinion is like the main steering rack up front...don't know which parts specifically..but your front end gets torn apart and it is a good idea to have an alignment done afterwards

 

yeah, he was talking about a new one... said it's not worth getting a used one.... where could I find a used one???
and yeah, i know i'll need an alignment....

thanks,

Sam

 

I went through the Org links...the suspension ones...the prices weren't too bad. But the mechanic I go to said he ordered it from the stealership..for less than what I could find it for...which I thought was really weird..but oh well..car works great ever since I had it fixed

 

It's real uncommon on Maximas but it happens. I got mine replaced at about 90K miles. It was still under warranty so I didn't worry about the costs. One of my coworkers got her's replaced for about $350. If yours is bad, $800-$1200 should come with the crack too (because someone would have to be on drugs to pay that price).

 

i have the same problem. you can buy stuff to possibly 'fix' the leak its an addative you add to your power steering fluid bought mine at NAPA. it seems to have fixed the problem....i was told 500 to replace it but that included a lower control arm bushing i belive(cuz thats what its dripping on)