2004 Honda Civic 2 different opinions

HONDAGIRLSASKATOON

MEMBER
2004 HONDA CIVIC
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
85,000 MILES

Hello,

I've had intermittent problems with my power steering for a couple years. Every now and then it feels like I have no power steering, especially when it is cold out (but it also happens in the summer) and when making tight turns in a parking lot.

When it started the mechanics couldn't find anything wrong with it, and told me just keep driving until I can't take it anymore, and get a new steering column.

So now it's getting worse, I took it to a garage and they told me I need a new rack and pinion, and quoted me $960.

For a second opinion I took it to Honda, and they told me it needed a new steering pump, and quoted me $650.

I am assuming Honda is right, since they know the cars, but with two different opinions I am worried that mabie the pump won't be enough and I have to go back and get the rack and pinion as well, costing me even more.

Should I take it to a third mechanic? Or does rck and pinion mean the same thing as a pump?

THANKS for your help!

2 Replies

BILLYMAC

MECHANIC
2,204 POSTS

Hi
Your honda dealer is right. And no pump is not the same as rack. But here is a logical explanation as to why it is the pump. Very simple a bad rack is a bad rack, it will not get better. If it is bad it is bad until it is replaced.

PUMP--Now the pump builds pressure it uses these ports called veins they can change size with heat or cold, when they do pressure is high or low causeing hard steer condition. Make sense

ty BILLYMAC