Save yourself from expensive mistakes by doing these few checks before ordering a part!
Check the Existing Rack First
If you are lucky enough to have the original steering rack still fitted, it is probably stamped or printed with a part number on the body of the rack. Make sure you clean the grime off both sides of the rack and compare it to the part number on the replacement rack to see if they are a direct match.
Use the VIN to Confirm Steering Spec
To work out which steering rack your car originally had, you need to look up your VIN and the production details embedded within it will confirm the correct steering rack for your car. As you will see from our page on how to read your VIN the VIN embedded within your car’s door pillar stickers will confirm production details such as engine, drivetrain and steering type fitted as original equipment by the factory.
Check Build Date as Well as Model Year
Steering racks can change at mid-year for some models and the build date needs to be checked from the door-pillar sticker against the part number. A 2009 model car built in early 2009 will be different to one built later in the same year.
Note the Engine Code and Drivetrain
If you want Audi Steering Racks, https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/vehicles/audi/ is a good place to start.
Confirm Hydraulic or Electric Fitment
Hydraulic and electric racks are totally different parts and cannot be swapped. Check whether your car has a reservoir with hydraulic fluid under the bonnet or an electric motor for power steering on the column? The part numbers for such systems are totally non-transferable.
Make sure you check all of the above before purchasing the new part and you will get the right Steering Rack the first time.
