Rach and Pinion leak on 2006 XLE - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

samhass · 08-06-2011, 02:38 PM

After a routine oil change at my dealer, I was told that I need a new rack and pinion steering unit. My vehicle has 56k miles on it. Most are open highway miles. Is this common? I am shocked. I have owned nothing but Toyota/Lexus since 1985 and am a huge Toyota cheerleader. Now I am not so sure. What is the frequency of this repair? Is this common?

Tech1984 · 08-06-2011, 04:06 PM

Have them degrease it, then at next oil change recheck the suspected leak area. Actually go out there in the shop and inspect it with the tech.
Take a picture if you can and post it here.
Also, monitor your power steering fluid level in that time frame. One thing I've noticed in the shop is a lot of techs replacing the P/S return line on the '06's for leaks.
Mostly because of unsecure clamps and rubber hoses.
Don't worry, you still have one fine car there.

samhass · 08-07-2011, 09:41 AM

Thank you so much for the reply. I think I will go to an indie shop and have them look at the whole thing..return line especially.

Tech1984 · 08-07-2011, 01:31 PM

The Villages is a place we visit every 1 or 2 years. That's got to be one of the coolest places to live if your the older crowd. You can party every night down there at the square. How cool is that!
We visit with a couple named Barb & Gary. You may know em.
I will be there in October if you want me to look at it. PM me at the beginning of that month if you're interested.

racerchoi · 08-08-2011, 01:23 PM

on changing front rotors over weekend, i noticed a similar leak, but I'm not sure if that has to do with my p/s. there is a boot on the lower control arm which is busted and leaking grease. I duck taped it temporarily lol. Now I'm wondering if that's related to what Samhass issue.

samhass · 08-11-2011, 06:54 AM

Tech..we're abnout 75k strong down here.
Phillips Toyota is calling me this AM with a final price. I want to drive up to Pa and hate to go if the vehicle really needs this service prior to departure..

RckyMtnSienna · 08-11-2011, 07:41 PM

I can't be very specific, but I just bought a 2007 LE and the dealer said they replaced the pump because of a leak. I have 70000km, or about 42000miles.

BadChicken · 10-01-2011, 09:22 AM

not that uncommon to see these leak into the boots at fairly low miles, its not that big of deal though