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Ford Explorer Rack & Pinion Assemblies
Ford Explorer Rack & pinion assemblys
Starting at $209.95, AutoBuffy stocks 18 rack and pinion assemblies for the Ford Explorer from trusted brands including Detroit Axle, SKP, and ACDelco. The rack and pinion converts steering wheel input into left-right wheel movement. When it fails, steering becomes unpredictable or impossible — a direct safety risk that makes prompt replacement essential.
Signs your Ford Explorer needs a new rack and pinion assembly
- Steering wheel feels loose or has excessive play before the wheels respond
- Clunking, knocking, or grinding noise when turning, especially at low speeds
- Power steering fluid leaking from the steering rack boots or along the rack housing
- Vehicle pulls consistently to one side even on a straight, level road
- Steering feels unusually stiff or notchy, particularly during slow parking maneuvers
- Uneven or rapid tire wear on the inner or outer edges caused by changed toe alignment
Which rack and pinion assembly should you buy for your Ford Explorer?
The main decision is between a remanufactured unit and a new unit, and whether to match the original power-assist type — hydraulic or electric. Choosing the wrong assist type will leave you without power steering or require additional modifications. Confirm your Ford Explorer's original configuration before ordering.
New OE-Equivalent
Best for
Owners wanting maximum longevity and a like-new feel
What you get
Virgin components, full seals and valves included, longest expected service life
Remanufactured
Best for
Budget-conscious owners who still want a core-tested unit
What you get
Professionally rebuilt rack with replaced seals and valves, lower upfront cost, core charge may apply
Hydraulic (Power Steering)
Best for
Vehicles originally equipped with a power steering pump
What you get
Rack designed to work with hydraulic fluid pressure; maintains factory steering feel
Electric Power Assist (EPAS)
Best for
Vehicles with electric power steering from the factory
What you get
Rack with integrated torque sensor or motor mount points; no hydraulic lines required
| Option | Best for | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| New OE-Equivalent | Owners wanting maximum longevity and a like-new feel | Virgin components, full seals and valves included, longest expected service life |
| Remanufactured | Budget-conscious owners who still want a core-tested unit | Professionally rebuilt rack with replaced seals and valves, lower upfront cost, core charge may apply |
| Hydraulic (Power Steering) | Vehicles originally equipped with a power steering pump | Rack designed to work with hydraulic fluid pressure; maintains factory steering feel |
| Electric Power Assist (EPAS) | Vehicles with electric power steering from the factory | Rack with integrated torque sensor or motor mount points; no hydraulic lines required |
Rack & pinion assemblys brands we stock for your Ford Explorer
Detroit Axle
15 options · from $209.95
SKP
2 options · from $324.95
ACDelco
1 option · from $358.95
Replacing a rack and pinion assembly on a Ford Explorer
Advanced⏱ 3–5 hoursFloor jack and jack standsPickle fork or tie rod separatorTorque wrenchPry barPower steering line wrench set (for hydraulic models)
Rack and pinion replacement on the Ford Explorer requires removing the front wheels, separating both tie rod ends from the steering knuckles, disconnecting the intermediate shaft from the rack input, and unbolting the rack from its subframe mounts. On hydraulic models, the high- and low-pressure lines must be disconnected and the system bled after installation. A professional wheel alignment is mandatory before returning the vehicle to normal driving.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace rack and pinion assemblies on a Ford Explorer?
Parts for the Ford Explorer start at $209.95 at AutoBuffy. Total cost including professional labor typically runs higher, as rack and pinion replacement is labor-intensive and requires a wheel alignment afterward. Doing the job yourself with the right tools keeps costs closer to the part price alone.
Can I drive my Ford Explorer with a failing rack and pinion?
You should not drive with a failing rack and pinion. A worn or leaking rack can cause sudden loss of steering control, unpredictable wheel response, or complete power steering failure. A small leak may allow very limited driving to a shop, but continued use risks making the repair more extensive and dangerous.
Do I need an alignment after replacing the rack and pinion on my Ford Explorer?
Yes, a four-wheel alignment is required after every rack and pinion replacement. Removing the rack disconnects the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles, which changes toe settings. Skipping alignment will cause rapid, uneven tire wear and can cause the Ford Explorer to pull or track incorrectly.
How long does a rack and pinion assembly last on a Ford Explorer?
Rack and pinion assemblies typically last many years under normal driving conditions, but lifespan varies based on road quality, driving habits, and maintenance. Rough roads, hard curb strikes, and deferred power steering fluid changes all accelerate wear. Inspect the rack boots regularly — cracked boots allow contamination that shortens service life significantly.
Is it better to buy a new or remanufactured rack and pinion for my Ford Explorer?
A new unit offers the longest expected life and is the better choice if the Ford Explorer will be kept long-term or driven in demanding conditions. A quality remanufactured rack is a practical, cost-effective alternative for older vehicles or tighter budgets, provided it comes from a reputable rebuilder with a solid warranty.
Does replacing the rack and pinion on a Ford Explorer require bleeding the power steering system?
Yes, on hydraulically assisted Ford Explorer models the power steering system must be bled after installation to purge air from the lines and rack. Trapped air causes whining, jerky steering, and accelerated pump wear. Electric power steering racks do not require bleeding but may need a module reset or calibration depending on the Ford Explorer.