To remove the rack and pinion, first disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. From inside the vehicle under the instrument panel, remove and discard the intermediate shaft pinch bolt and take out the shaft. Loosen the front wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle securely on jackstands, and remove both front wheels. Detach the tie-rod ends from the
Steering Knuckles and remove the splash shield. For 2007 and earlier models, disconnect the VES electrical connector from the rack and pinion, disconnect the stabilizer bar and links, place a drain pan under the rack and pinion, and detach the power steering pressure and return lines, capping the ends to prevent fluid loss and contamination. Some models may have a sheetmetal shield that needs removal for access to the fittings. Remove the rack and pinion mounting bolts and slide the rack and pinion out through the driver's side wheel opening. For 2008 and later models, attach an engine support fixture or engine hoist to the engine, disconnect the lower
Control Arms from the steering knuckles, disconnect the engine mounts from the subframe, and disconnect any wiring harnesses connected to the subframe. Support the rear of the subframe with jackstands and the front with a floor jack, then loosen the rear subframe mounting fasteners and remove the front subframe fasteners. Slightly raise the engine and lower the front of the subframe until the rack and pinion can be removed, then take out the rack and pinion mounting bolts and the rack and pinion itself. For installation, follow the reverse order of removal, ensuring to align the matchmarks when connecting the rack and pinion input shaft to the intermediate shaft U-joint and install a new pinch bolt. Use new subframe mounting fasteners, a new banjo bolt, and sealing washers for the power steering pressure line, tightening all fasteners to the specified torque values. Fill the power steering reservoir with the recommended fluid and bleed the power steering hydraulic system, then have the front end alignment checked and adjusted if necessary.