Steering rack
Turns steering input into side-to-side movement at the front wheels.
Across the front axle area, connected to the steering column and tie rods.
Rack-and-pinion gear motion moves the tie rods; assistance hardware adds steering force.
A turning handle moving a sliding bar.
Play, binding, noise or assistance warnings can involve several steering components.
Joints and boots are inspected for play, damage and leakage; electrical assistance has no universal preventive replacement interval.
A tie-rod or boot service differs from a complete assisted rack. Alignment and electronic calibration may add work.
BMW steering racks can use hydraulic or electric assistance depending on generation.
BMW steering systems as fitted; assistance type and rear-steering availability depend on chassis.