The steering rack is composed of a rack enclosed with a steering pinion. It is connected to the steering wheel through the set of shafts and U-joints. As the steering wheel is turned, the pinion moves and pushes the steering rack either to the left or right. The ends of the steering rack are connected to the front wheels so the steering rack inputs and turns them to the left or the right as well.

A power steering rack utilizes an engine-driven pump to supply high-pressure hydraulic fluid to the steering rack when the wheel is turned. This enables an easier turning of the steering rack. This also means that there is a big amount of hoses, seals, and o-rings to contain the hydraulic fluid.

If the power steering rack wears out badly, it will start to leak. The absence of the hydraulic fluid will result to a hard, difficult steering. This is the right time to replace a new or re-conditioned replacement steering rack.