Hi newbie here. I removed the passenger side inner tie rod and the dust boot was filled with fluid. this is power steering fluid correct? do i need a new rack and pinion assy? thaks

 

Was it more like fluid or like a grease substance?

 

definetly some type of oil, not grease

 

depends on how long you are keeping the car. They can run for a long time leaking power steering fluid. I would fix it only if you are keeping it for a while.

Otherwise check the fluid everyday.

But yeah your rack is bad.

 

I agree. It looks like you might have to replace it.

 

thank you guys for your input

 

missed opportunity for "rack and pinion opinion"

You can hope sludge keeps it from leaking if it has trashed fluid in it or you can replace with valvoline max life ATF with stop leak or their PS fluid with stop leak.