Rack and Pinion Steering Replacement Audi A4

Hello!

On my neighbor's Audi A4, 8E, model year 2002, 2.0 gasoline engine, power steering fluid is leaking from a steering rack boot.

As far as I can tell, it seems almost impossible to replace the steering linkage.

I once got a cost estimate from VW. It stated: "Steering gear removed and installed, plus replacement, €258 + VAT."

Gesamt beläuft sich das auf so 1250€. incl. Mamaterial.

What do you advise me to do? Should I have it done by VW, or should I take care of it myself?

I once did something like that on the B5, but it was a lot of work.
If you have time, do it; it can't be done quickly or as a side project.

You can do that yourself on a lift platform. It just requires a bit of fiddling.

The B5 steering rack replacement took about 4 hours. It wasn't particularly complicated, but it was quite tight. The B6 is probably not much different. You need to remove the steering column and hydraulic components, then there are two (or three?) screws in the splash tray. Disconnect the tie rod ends and then slowly pry the steering rack out sideways using a "birthing tongs" (or similar tool). It's also possible to do it without a lift.

We installed a refurbished, low-cost part (including tie rods) as a replacement, which easily lasted for the remainder of the vehicle's lifespan.

Best regards from Berlin.
olli