My 2007 GX (101K miles, purchased in 2010 CPO with 44K on it) is in great shape however the stealership is telling me there's a small leak in the power steering column and it's eventually going to need to be replaced.

Of course I asked if it could be repaired. Oh no, no...can't do that - you have to replace the whole thing.

Or do I? Anyone have any history with this, and what should a repair/replacement go for?

Stealership is coming in at about $2200, give or take.

 

If it's at that point already, I personally would probably drop some Baars PS leak stop formula.

Might even help other issues

 

First off, i assume they are talking about the power sterring RACK, and not the column?

Second, unless you are having issues with it, tell them to pound sand.

All power steering racks leak a little bit out the edges (they are technically hydraulic cylinders, after all) and unless it is losing quite the large amount of fluid, i wouldnt worry about it.

They just tried to gouge my ex-girlfriend with this on her 08 4runner (same parts as our GX's).. They told her that it was losing fluid everywhere, and that it needed a whole new steering rack. Upon me crawling underneath, the underside of the truck is bone dry, and there is only a very small dried accumulation of dirt/grease on the ends of the rack near the tie rods. I have had her drive it around for a month, and the fluid level hasn't dropped even one bit.

 

You are correct; sorry, my verbiage was off.

According to the service advisor there's some spatter on one of the shields indicating a leak, however I've seen zero effect on the vehicle's performance nor have I even seen indication of a leak on the driveway at any point.