Common Suspension and Steering
Steering rack leaks and worn tie rod ends
Symptoms
Power steering fluid leaks from the rack (usually at the pinion seal or end seals). Steering feels loose or vague. Clunking when you turn. Outer tie rod ends wear, causing play.
Cause
Rack seals perish. Tie rod ends are a wear item. The 240's steering is robust, but not immune.
Fix
Small leaks can be lived with for a while, just top up the fluid.
Major leaks require a rack rebuild or replacement.
Tie rod ends are cheap and easy (about $20-30 each, plus alignment).
Use a pickle fork or tie rod puller to separate them.
Cost mentioned in fix
$20-30 each
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