Buying a reconditioned steering rack for a Toyota Corolla Axio is a smart move to save money, but because it’s a critical safety component, you have to be selective. Since the Axio uses an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, the "rack" is more than just gears—it involves sensors and a motor.
Here is a quick guide to help you
find the right part and avoid "lemon" components.
What
to Look For
When inspecting a reconditioned
unit, don't just take the seller's word for it. Check these three areas: read more
- The Rack Ends and Boots: Ensure the rubber bellows (boots) are brand new. If
they are cracked, dirt can get into the internal gears and damage the rack
within months.
- The "Play":
Rotate the input shaft. There should be zero "knock" or
"clunk" when you wiggle it.
- The Motor/Sensor Plug: Ensure the electrical connectors for the EPS motor are
clean and not chipped. If the pins are corroded, your power steering will
cut out intermittently.
Estimated
Costs (Approximate)
Prices vary by region (common in Sri
Lanka, Bangladesh, and Jamaica), but generally:
|
Item |
Estimated Price (USD Equivalent) |
|
Reconditioned Unit |
$120 – $220 |
|
Brand New (Aftermarket) |
$300 – $450 |
|
Labor/Installation |
$40 – $80 |
Pro-Tips
for Axio Owners
- Match the Model Code:
Ensure the rack is for your specific chassis (e.g., NZE141, NZE161, or
NZE164). While they look similar, the mounting points and sensor
calibrations can differ between the 140 and 160 series.
- The "Bush" Issue: Often, the Axio steering "knock" is just a
worn-out Teflon bush inside the rack. If your rack isn't leaking or
electrically dead, you might be able to repair your current one for a
fraction of the cost.
- Wheel Alignment:
You must perform a 4-wheel alignment immediately after
installation, or you'll ruin your tires and the steering angle sensor
might throw an error code.
Warning: Never buy a steering rack that shows signs of welding or
heavy rust on the main shaft. This indicates it was salvaged from a flood or a
major accident.
Are you experiencing a specific
symptom like a "clunking" sound when turning, or has your EPS warning
light come on? I can help you diagnose if it's
actually the rack or just a smaller component like a steering column bush.
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