Evaluating steering rack when repairing accident vehicles - AH46.20-P-9409-01AK

Accidents with damage to body 

In the event of accidents with body damage (e.g. deformed fender, longitudinal member, side paneling, rear ends etc.) the steering gear can be used again on condition that parts of the front axle, steering gear or steering linkage are not damaged.

Accidents with deformation at the front axle or steering linkage 

For safety reasons, the steering gear must be replaced if components of the front axle, steering gear or steering linkage are permanently deformed.

A shock transmitted to the steering gear through the front axle or steering linkage may have caused damage which not externally visible. The pressure and crack test necessary to ascertain this is not possible in the workshops, so the steering gear should always be replaced in case of doubt.

If the damage referred to here is a claim, we recommend notifying the appropriate insurance company or the authorized automotive expert about the necessity of this procedure.

If the steering gear is to be left in the vehicle contrary to the opinions of the workshop staff responsible, we recommend asking the expert or insurance officer to confirm his decision with his signature.