[jtcape]

I have a 2008 with about 135K miles on it. So far it's been great. Just maintenance stuff. However, the dealer said the steering rack is leaking and needs to be replaced - about $1400. Would you do it? What else should I watch out for as it ages?

Thanks.

 

[gregee]

If it's been bullet-proof otherwise and is still in good shape, I'd have it repaired and run it another 50,000 miles minimum. Our 2004 has so far needed one front engine mount ($500), one rear wheel bearing ($80; DIY), and a window regulator ($400). No steering work yet (although it does feel a little looser and noisier/notchier than ideal).

Otherwise for yours, I'd recommend all-fluids (coolant, brake, transmission) change if those haven't been done recently.

Good luck!
Greg

 

[Fibber2]

At around the 100k mark I started having wheel bearings issues. By 110k (?) I'd replaced 3 of them.

 

[cj1]

Change fluid and use Lucas stop leak if leak is minor.

 

[JMSinMD]

I have a 2008 with about 135K miles on it. So far it's been great. Just maintenance stuff. However, the dealer said the steering rack is leaking and needs to be replaced - about $1400. Would you do it? What else should I watch out for as it ages?

Thanks.

Seems that all Toyota/Lexus have a problem with power steering rack leaking/weeping. They recommend replacement but if you try to have them cover it under warranty they claim it's just weeping and it needs to be a full fledged leak to fix. Unless you have a major leak where you are having to top off your ps fluid on a regular basis I would look at switching to this.


http://www.valvolinechemicals.com/productdisplay/maxlife-power-steering-fluid-stop-leak

 

[dandaman]

I'm at 150k and my steering rack "leaks". It's a pretty slow leak. Just keep it topped off and unless it starts hemorrhaging fluid you're ok.

 

[ojavery]

I have an 08 and the only non maintenance items has been 1 frt wheel bearing and 2 o2 sensors. 214k miles. no leaks, runs great. using amsoil extended interval oil.

 

[Rusty360]

I have not tried the Valvoline stop leak but changed my 1996 T100 to the Valvoline maxlife transmission fluid recommended for power steering type I believe Dextron II several years ago. Tried flushing the old fluid myself and every oil change sucked the fluid out of the pump and topped off with fresh and 200k plus miles and 20 years old no leaks.

 

[supra129]

My 2007 leaked for a while then stopped. It's common on this generation of vans. I would just monitor it for a while and go from there. If it gets too bad then have it replaced.

I also changed the power steering fluid.