How Steering Parts Are Matched to Your Car
It’s not enough to search for steering parts by make and model. A few checks before ordering can save you having to return parts that don’t fit.
Same Model, Different Spec
Two identical cars can have completely different steering systems. The same model can have had a mid-year update. A car can be a base model and have a different spec than a high end model. Each production run can have variations in the mounting points and part dimensions. It is important to check the production date of your car as well as the model year.
Use the Chassis Number
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique number that can be found on the Vehicle Registration Document. This number can be used by suppliers and factors to cross reference against parts databases to confirm the correct part for a specific vehicle.
Know Your Steering Type
Steering Parts can be suited to different types of steering systems, such as hydraulic rack and pinion steering systems, electric power steering systems and variable-ratio steering systems. Although some Steering Parts can appear similar, they are not suitable for use on all types of steering systems. For example, a steering part designed for use on a hydraulic rack and pinion steering system would not be suitable for use on an electric power steering system as this could cause serious problems with the handling of the vehicle and potentially cause damage to the steering assembly.
Check Mounting Points Before You Fit Anything
Worn subframe bushes or corroded steering component mounting points can cause problems for new parts and make them sit incorrectly. Ensure that surrounding parts and mounting points are in good order before fitting any parts, allow for wear if necessary and address before continuing with fit.
Watch for Small Dimensional Differences
A part that looks right can have different characteristics (e.g. different torque rating or different diameter of joints) to the corresponding part on your car. Always check the part number against the corresponding part from your original car rather than relying on appearance.
Getting it right the first time around and avoiding a second take down is far less trouble than that!