The only serviceable parts of the steering gear include the tie-rods, steering gear boots, and tie-rod ends. Vehicles equipped with EPA steering systems utilize a rack and pinion type mechanism mounted on the front suspension cradle, with serviceable parts limited to the inner and outer tie rods and dust bellows, serviced as a complete assembly. If the rack and pinion is replaced, programming to the vehicle is necessary using a professional-grade scan tool with the appropriate software. Begin by parking the vehicle on a flat surface with the wheels straight ahead, then disconnect the negative battery terminal. If a telescopic steering system is present, fully extend the column. Loosen the front wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands before removing the wheels. Separate the tie-rod ends from the
Steering Knuckles, mark the relationship of the steering intermediate shaft coupler to the rack and pinion, and remove the pinch bolt from the coupler. Stabilize the steering column shaft to prevent turning, then separate the intermediate shaft coupler from the rack and pinion, which can be done by passing the seat belt through the steering wheel and latching it. Disconnect the two electrical connections at the rack and pinion by raising the red safety tab and depressing the locking tab. Remove the heat shields protecting the
Rack and Pinion Boots and the rack and pinion-to-subframe bolts to take out the rack and pinion. New replacement rack and pinions typically do not include the heat shield; drill out the rivets from the old gear and transfer the heat shield to the new unit, using self-tapping screws for reinstallation. Installation follows the reverse order of removal, with the added step of calibrating the rack and pinion to the vehicle. After reinstalling the rack and pinion or replacing the tie-rods, reconnect the battery, turn the key to On with the engine Off, and rotate the steering wheel from full right to full left, ensuring it reaches the maximum lock position in each direction. Return the steering wheel to the center position, turn the key to Off, and the system will be calibrated. Start the vehicle and check for any related service codes.