Rack and Pinion?? or could it be something else?

Question

Last night i was in an "accident". On my way home some kids decided to put HUGE rocks in the middle of the road. I ended up hitting one, well ran over it. It went right in the middle of the car and lifted my whole car up. Now the car will not steer. I managed to get the car off the road and a guy came out of his house, said that he heard the noise. He looked under the car and said that the rod that runs from one side to the other is completely bent. He said that this rod is actually bolted to the frame of my car. I have no clue about cars, what could this be? The car will drive, but now when I crank it up, it makes a funny sound and again I cannot turn either way?

Useful info- The car is a 2005 Dodge Stratus and it is the rod in the front of the car!

And if anyone does know what this could be, how much damage am I looking at?

Answer 1

It could be lots of things bent or damaged. Could be bent inner tie rods, bent control arms, damaged rack unit. I would suggest towing it to a shop tomorrow and have them put it on a lift, give it an inspection, and furnish you with an estimate. PS, there is no rack out there installed for 300 dollars, try like 700 dollars and up and a four wheel alignment will be needed afterwards.

Answer 2

it sounds like your rack and pinion has been broke and the power steering fluid has leaked out making your power steering pump squeal. open your hood and check your power steering fluid to see if it is low or empty. if it is the rack and pinion you are looking at about $300 or so for the rack and installation cost