Rack and pinion assembly replacement?

Tiny
BOROZCO
  • MEMBER
  • 2022 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 2.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 55,000 MILES
Having a hard time understanding is it really necessary to drop subframe for rack and pinion replacement? I have a rack from a 2020 and done a rack and pinion from a 2007 Pontiac g6v6 before with no issues. Any tips would truly help so I can do it myself have tools and all, I just need advice.
Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 1:43 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 51,573 POSTS
Yes, you need to remove the front subframe to replace the steering rack, so you will need an engine/transmission support beam while doing the job. Here is a link to one and amazon for $57.00:

https://amzn.to/4iJz5E8

There is no other way because the electrical motor on the rack gets in the way of the removal. Let us know if you need anything else. Check out the images (below).
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Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 11:06 AM
Tiny
BOROZCO
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Actually it seems like it would have enough space I forgot to mention it’s going from a 2020 Camry le fwd to a 2022 Camry le fwd.
And same reference number.
Used rack being installed has only 30,000 miles.
I will upload pic so you can see.
Thank you once again.
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Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 12:15 PM
Tiny
BOROZCO
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  • 4 POSTS
You're right I saw how the transmission mount is in way and
I paid the dealer $220 to tell me what’s wrong with it. They didn’t take wheels or cover off underneath only went based on sound and it has locked on me twice in one year in steep curve or once switching lanes, but I drive carefully in street.
I inspected both sides for obvious dents or cracks and might be the inner tie rod maybe since the alignment wasn’t able to tell me exactly what was it that misaligned it could have been the slightest dent they said I will still be replacing it soon.
Meantime I’m curious if you guys think it actually is rack and pinion other than that steers quick maneuvers an all.
I’m trying to put the mic back on this so I can make video.
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Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 1:41 PM
Tiny
BOROZCO
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  • 4 POSTS
I have it lifted from front that’s sound that is loud even from the outside when I’m parking can hear it from distance.
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Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 1:44 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 51,573 POSTS
Thanks for the video, Oh man, yep that is the rack, the gears inside or gone which makes that noise. Let me know if you have trouble replacing it, I can help. Have a good weekend, happy wrenching!
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Friday, May 2nd, 2025 AT 9:40 AM

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