2010 T27 Steering Rack Issue?

[Ankari]

Over the past 2 weeks I have noticed that my steering feels very loose sometimes, especially over rough roads, as if the steering wheel wants to jump out of my hands. Also I have noticed that when reversing out of my driveway there is a clunk I can hear and feel through the steering wheel.

I have had this car up on a ramp with my local mechanic. We moved the front wheels from side to side and you can clearly hear and feel something is loose.

Track Rod ends, Ball joints, bearings, drop links etc checked and these are all fine with no play at all. We put our hands on the tie rods and moved the wheels again and the noise stopped so it is looking like a steering rack issue.

Phoned Toyota and they don't want to know about it, and they don't even sell tie rods separately. They make you change the entire steering rack. New rack is €614 + VAT. My mechanic says about 3-4 hours work so this is going to cost me alot of money.

I have been reading on this forum and have come across a number of threads about dodgy steering racks. Can anyone shed some light on this, I am not happy.

[FROSTYBALLS]

Have a look at post 2 of the following - http://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/topic/170689-knocking-front-suspension/

Presumably as you're in Ireland, the 3 year/100,000km has expired. Usually Toyota GB is quite approachable as regards goodwill repairs if the car has a Toyota service history. However, as you're in Ireland, you need to liaise with Toyota Ireland. By what you've included in your post, you use an independent for servicing, etc - so Toyota Ireland may not consider any goodwill.

[Ankari]

Yeah I am in Ireland but my car was imported from the UK. It is out of warranty due to its age alright I am going to have the rack replaced on Saturday. I will give the mechanic a hand so will report back here to help others diagnose a problem.

Thanks,