2001 Chrysler Sebring rack & pinion repair

2001 CHRYSLER SEBRING
121,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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ROBNORRELL
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Gentlemen -

This is the first time I have had a car that exceeded 100,000 miles. As a result, I am encountering repairs that I have never dealt with before. I just returned from the repair shop where I had the guys check my suspension, specifically my shocks and struts. I learned that my shocks and struts were fine, however, my problem was my rack & pinion steering. These guys gave me an estimated repair of just under $1000. A second opinion returned an estimate just over $1100, and my dealer was just south of $1400. First of all, do these charges seen legit, and second, on an 8 year old vehicle with over 120,000 miles, does it make sense to sink that kind of money into the car. I have already been tinkering with the idea of getting a new car anyway. Should this issue, "seal the deal"? Please help. Thanks!
Oct 21, 2008 at 7:44 PM
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MASTERTECHTIM
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first of all what is the problem you are having? why is the rack bad? leaking? stiff steering? let me know
Oct 21, 2008 at 7:56 PM
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ROBNORRELL
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I have not noticed any difference in the steering. The biggest thing I notice is a rather loud "thump" noise that seems to be coming from the wheel well, and more recently just beneath the floorboard by the gas pedal. The thump only happens as I hit the accelerator from a stopped position. The noise has to be pretty loud because I have started noticing people look over at me as I pull away.

I asked the guys at the repair shop today if this is caused by any problems with my power steering fluid. He says they did not notice any leaks.
Oct 21, 2008 at 9:17 PM
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MASTERTECHTIM
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i have been doing this a long ime and for the life of me cant imagine how a power steering rack is causing your concern. maybe its actually broken but i would imagine your steering wheel would be going crazy when this happens. i just got off the phone with my parts supplier to check pricing on rack and my cost is 239. there are several different options but i asked for the higher priced one. you have to consider a fair mark up price on the part because the shop has to stand behind the job. so maybe consider 400 for parts, 4 hours labor plus a alignment. in the boston area you could expect to pay around 700. i hope this helps. keeping or selling the car is really a personal question you need to ask yourself. are you happy with the car? most cars i work on have over 100k miles, my truck has 300k on her and i wont give her up.
Oct 22, 2008 at 7:25 AM