01 Avalon Rack&Pinion slop

[Jrica945]

On my '01 Avalon (136K miles) the right side of the rack has slop. When I grab the right tire at 9 & 3 o'clock position it moves about 1/4" to 1/2". The left side is tight. System is good otherwise, no leaks. Balljoints & tierods are good. Is replacing the rack & pinion assembly the only option? Is it safeto drive like this?

[toyomoho]

Is this up and down play or axial movement?

Did you check the inner tie rod joint that is under the steering housing boot for play?

[Jrica945]

It is axial. I removed the tie rod from the tire and there's play in the rack (by pushing in & out) at this point the play is about 1/8" or 1/4". There is no play on the left side.

[kegunder]

Everything that I've heard about steering slop would indicate that your car is not safe. Driving in traffic at any speed is not advised until your issue is diagnosed or fixed.

Perhaps the inner tie rod has worn out behind the bellows.

[new echo owner]

With 136k miles might consider replacing the complete rack and pinion assembly, even though you can replace the tie-rod by itself.

N.E.O.