Zafira leaking fluid from steering rack

[cmo1969]

Hi,

We have an 2003 Zafira 1.8. It has just failed its MOT because oil is leaking from (what to me looks like) the steering rack gaiter. How easy is this repair? Can the gaiter be replaced or are we looking at a new steering rack?

Thanks,
Chris.

 

[wotan]

I would imagine a new steering rack, one of the end seals has gone.
Possibly it could be repaired, but it might not be economic to do so.

Wotan

 

[cmo1969]

Sounds expensive. Isn't changing a gaiter cheaper (if possible)?

 

[TicklyT]

The seal is inside the rack, and supposed to keep the fluid in. The gaiter around the end is only there to keep the mud out. It isn't designed to keep the fliuid in.

 

[kevindgas]

It isn't designed

like the rest of the vehicle

 

[KingboyD]

The seal is inside the rack, and supposed to keep the fluid in. The gaiter around the end is only there to keep the mud out. It isn't designed to keep the fliuid in.

Yep, what he said! New/recon/repaired/second hand rack time unfortunatly

 

[cmo1969]

Well, having a new rack fitted this week. There are no kits available to change the seals for a Zafira, hence new rack is only option. A new genuine vaux part is £570 (lol), but a recon is about £250. And 6 hours labour. An expensive MOT failure ...