Where to Go in Decatur to Address Steering Rack Leaks in Your Mercedes
A steering rack leak can really negatively impact the performance and handling of your Mercedes. The steering rack works with the power assist system to allow you to drive your car easier. The rack and pinion work together to make your wheels turn right or left. Basically, the rack and pinion system operates by translating circular motions (turning the steering wheel) to a linear motion to actually move the tires in the direction you choose.
If this breaks while you are driving, this can be extremely dangerous. This is why it is essential to get this checked out as soon as you think there might be an issue.
Steering Rack Leak Symptoms
Check out some of the more common symptoms of steering rack leaks below and see if they sound familiar to you:
- Grinding Noises: When you are actively steering, you may hear a grinding This is typically related to the gearbox. The grinding noise can be due to metal-on-metal contact when you turn. This can happen due to a lack of lubrication. A mechanic will need to look at your Mercedes and diagnose the issue. The grinding noise could also occur because low or contaminated fluid could have damaged the steering rack and the pinion gear.
- Dead Spots: A dead spot is when you turn the wheel, and you feel no resistance at a specific point. You have to turn the wheel further to get it to respond. This is likely caused by the gears being worn out. This needs to be replaced as it can become especially dangerous since the dead spot could get larger. Your ability to turn will only get worse.
- Burning Smell: Typically, you will not know what the problem is by this alone, as a burning smell can indicate many different car issues. However, if you have a burning smell and another symptom listed here, it could indicate that the steering rack is overheating. If this is happening, it can be due to a leak, a blocked hose, or a lack of power steering fluid.
- Leaks: If you see leaks under your engine or car, check the power steering fluid levels. If it is low, add more. You will need to take your Mercedes in for repairs.
- Hard to Turn: Besides having dead spots, you could have an issue with turning. When you are driving a high-end luxury car like a Mercedes, turning should be smooth and easy. If it is not, there is likely a problem. If your power steering fluid is low, your vehicle will have less hydraulic pressure. This will make turning very difficult.
- Low or Discolored Fluid: Finally, a possible symptom is a low fluid level. If there is a leak, you will need to take your car to your mechanic or garage right away to get this fixed.
Steering Rack Leak Causes
Below are some of the reasons your steering rack can leak or fail:
- Exposure to high temperatures, which could have a negative effect over time
- Road debris causing physical damage
- Fluid could become contaminated, allowing abrasive materials to get into the gears
- Loose connections
- Worn out or damaged seals
- A worn-out or damaged gasket
Addressing Steering Rack Leaks With A Professional
The most efficient way to fix this problem is to contact a professional. Although you may only have a leak, your Mercedes may also be suffering from other issues. If you feel that your steering rack may be leaking, you should consult your mechanic or garage right away.
Once this repair is taken care of, your mechanic will be able to tell you if there was anything you could have done to prevent this issue or not. One of the best acts of prevention on vehicle cars is to keep up on all scheduled maintenance and inspections.
Visit Munich West For Mercedes Repairs and Service
Our team of experienced technicians and mechanics at 
Munich West can help you with all your vehicle needs. We are Atlanta’s leading European vehicle service center since 1976, so you can trust your Mercedes with us.
We service the Decatur and Atlanta, GA areas and surrounding communities. Our staff is trained and certified to repair and service high-end European cars such as your Mercedes. We also service and repair other European Vehicle brands: Audi, Mini, Volvo, BMW, Saab, and Volkswagen. If you are experiencing any issues with your vehicle, call or stop in today!
