Steering Gear

What is the function of a steering gear in a car?

The steering gear is a crucial component of the steering system, responsible for accurately transferring the steering wheel's movement to the vehicle's wheels. Every turn of the steering wheel translates into the appropriate turn of the wheels, enabling safe and comfortable driving. At EuroFrance, we stock new steering gear parts as well as used alternatives for a wide range of vehicles - primarily French brands like Renault, Citroën and Peugeot, but also Volkswagen, Fiat, Opel and others. The most common type of steering gear in passenger cars is the rack and pinion, although other solutions can be found in trucks and older models.

Types of steering gears and how they differ

There are several basic types of steering gears:

• Rack and pinion steering - the most popular in modern passenger cars, based on the cooperation of a pinion gear with a toothed rack.

• Recirculating ball steering gear - mainly used in trucks, characterised by high durability and reinforced construction.

• Worm gear steering - once popular, now rarely seen, based on the cooperation of a worm and a gear wheel.

• Globoidal worm gear - used occasionally in selected models.

Each type has its advantages and applications, but in most modern passenger cars the rack and pinion dominates due to its precision and compact design.

How to recognise symptoms of a damaged steering rack

Problems with the steering gear can manifest in several ways:

• leaks of power steering fluid,

• knocking noises while driving straight or turning,

• noticeable play in the steering wheel,

• difficulty turning or steering wheel lockup,

• issues with power steering operation.

Such symptoms may indicate wear of internal components, damage to the rack, pinion gears, or other sub-assemblies. If you notice any of these signs, it is advisable to inspect the steering system promptly.

Typical failures of a rack and pinion unit

The most common failures involve wear of the pinion gears and rack, power steering fluid leaks, or damage to bushings and oil valves. In cars with hydraulic or electric power steering, pump or motor failure can also occur. Sometimes the cause of problems may be clogged oil channels or a faulty valve. You can filter our catalogue by power steering system type - hydraulic, electric or non-assisted - as well as by LHD or RHD version to match your vehicle.

Is it always necessary to replace the entire steering gear?

Not always. Many faults can be repaired through regeneration, which involves replacing worn seals, bushings or internal components. Regeneration is often a cost-effective solution, restoring full functionality at a lower cost than purchasing an entirely new part. However, when the rack or pinion teeth are severely worn, a full replacement is the safest option.

How to choose the right steering gear

When selecting a replacement steering rack, keep the following in mind:

• Vehicle compatibility - use your VIN or original part number to confirm the correct fit. Popular models in our range include the Clio 2, Peugeot 206, Kangoo 1, Laguna 1, Berlingo 1 and Partner 1.

• Power steering type - check whether your car uses a hydraulic, electric-in-column or electric-in-gear system.

• Drive side - we carry parts for both LHD (Europe) and RHD (England) configurations.

• Manufacturer - choose from suppliers such as TRW, JTEKT, Bosch and OE brands like Renault, PSA and Dacia.

Steering gear at EuroFrance

At EuroFrance you will find a broad selection of steering racks - primarily new, with used parts available as an affordable alternative. Our catalogue covers French marques like Renault steering gear, Citroën steering gear and Peugeot steering gear, alongside Dacia, Volkswagen, Opel, Fiat, Nissan and more.

We supply only tested parts that ensure precise handling and safety on the road. If you are unsure which steering rack suits your car, contact our team - we will gladly help you find the right component by VIN or part number.

Choose certainty and driving comfort with EuroFrance!