Steering Rack - VW Golf

Gallant_JJ

Hey folks, quick query and would appreciate your help. My GF drives a VW Golf, and as of this morning when she turns left and right there is a loud grinding noise out of the steering rack. She knows it’s the steering rack as only 3 months ago she had the same noise, had it looked at by a mechanic who said it was the rack, and replaced it with a 2nd had one. Alas its back, is it a case of shabby workmanship or misfortune regarding the part? He never actually asked her did she want it replaced by a new or used bit, just went ahead and replaced it.

My query is how serious is the problem, I know none of ye can specifically diagnose the problem, but generally is it a case of not driving the car at all or would it be o.k. for a week or two? She intends to fix it as soon as possible, but has to drive from Galway to Derry on Friday, and is not going to get it done before that. In what way would a problem like this deteriorate, would the car eventually loose steering?

Neilw

Have you checked the level of power steering fluid? The pump can groan when it's low on fluid.

Nonoperational

In the extreme board the bushes can kinda dry up and make a bit of noise. Hold tough till it warms up a bit and see how it is!

Muckie

Not the nicest weather to be checking under a car, but i'd get a floor mat
and have a good look and check any parts that could be loose or damaged.
(hopefully it just the powersteering fluid that needs topping up also check the belts condition)

If it was a second hand part, it possible its failed for the same reason as
the first. Maybe get a second opinion before you get it redone.

Chance bein a fine thing your girlfriend might be alrite if she has to drive it.
Good luck