An extremely tight steering wheel, leaking power steering fluid, grinding noises when steering, and a burning oil odour are all common symptoms of a faulty steering rack.

This central device receives input from the driver via the steering wheel and steering column and provides a mechanical signal to the tie rods and steering shafts, allowing for smooth and efficient left and right turns.
Check MOT expiry date for your car and have the problem fixed if you're having steering troubles. A malfunctioning steering rack is characterised by an unusually tight steering wheel, leaking power steering fluid, grinding noises when steering, and a burning oil odour.
When a mechanic carries out a routine full service, many garages offer a 50 plus point check of the car. These checks allow a mechanic to identify any other issues in the car that need to be addressed immediately or in the very near future.
What Happens If I Don’t Service My Car?
A vehicle service completed as per manufactures schedule makes sure that your car runs safely. You risk unknown damage to your vehicle if you don't do this, whether it's general wear and tear or an engine problem. Mechanics will detect deterioration during a service, which can save you money over the long term by preventing you from having to pay to replace the part (if repairs are possible). Your car may also become slow and sluggish as your engine efficiency and fuel economy decline, reducing your vehicle's typical life span.
When Should You Service a Car?
A full service should be performed on a vehicle every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, according to the manufacturer's schedule and mechanics' recommendations. Some mechanics recommend that you have your automobile serviced every six months to have your lights, steering, brakes, and tyres checked (depending on how often you drive).
However, the steering rack will eventually wear out. Repairing this critical component quickly and efficiently can make the difference between a small inconvenience and a substantial mechanical replacement.
If you check your cars MOT history online and establish that a previous MOT test failed due to a play in the steering, then this could well have been related to a faulty steering rack.
The steering rack is the nerve centre of the steering system. The ability to drive your car is affected when it wears down or completely breaks. This can be highly dangerous if it occurs while you are driving. Being aware of the warning indications of a poor or malfunctioning steering rack or gearbox can save you money, time, and lessen the risk of a crash for these (and other) reasons.