6 years is definitely short, mine only just started to leak and it turned 23 this year. However, unless you see her keeping the car for 6+ more years, a cheaper rebuilt one could hold you by just fine until you get something newer. Saving on labor costs is an added bonus, so you could use that to justify an OEM rack, however I would be surprised if that wasn't also rebuilt, I don't think they make new racks for these cars anymore. Ultimately comes down to how much are you willing to pay for peace of mind. The warranty means you'll be compensated monetarily either way, if you do plan on keeping the car long term and can afford it, the OEM option would be best, especially without labor prices.

 

Oh this car is being kept forever no matter what, my dad had a 98 when i was a kid and i have been in love with them ever since. Its my car essentially, but she drives it, pays for full coverage insurance etc.

 

Forever is a long time buddy, believe me. You're in college now, 45-50 years til ya retire, maybe 15 more years after that.
People are talking about all the discontinued parts now, just think how it's gonna be in 20 years from now. I hope I don't have to find out.
But, you do have to keep your girl safe so do the best for what you can afford now.

 

You'll have to pull a Jay Leno and 3D print your own parts for it

 

I may end up doing that when it comes time, just too sweet of a ride to let die. Called lexus to just see what this job would cost there, 1274.xx plus tax, looks like its beer and bloody knuckles for this one

 

Depending on your mechanical skillset this doesn't have to be a costly repair. There are only a few seals on the end in question plus a couple on the rack (internal component) itself. The 4 seals in question can be purchased for under $20. Unfortunately, if you're going to the trouble of opening up the rack you'll want to replace everything while you are in there. Replacing EVERY seal is still under $75 unless you decided to replace all the bearings as well. Some are a bit pricey but they are prob ok. Tearing a rack and pinion apart is not for the weak of heart but it's definitely doable.

 

I did this repair recently. 450 wholesale price for a Lexus reman rack from dealer in Delaware. Was going to go with Detroit axle but not much of a price difference for OEM. Do not wait too long to replace the rack. My power steering pump leaked via rack until dry, started groaning, and before I knew it was blown out. Then, somehow trashed my alternator and then battery. Labor was around 400 at an Indy shop but all parts were hella expensive. Get rack done before this happens to you!!

 

That would definitely be beyond me forsure, Im gonna share the link to the part I am looking at on the dealership website to so yall can make sure that is the right thing i need!
https://parts.chathamparkwaylexus.co...420350050.html
666.xx before tax is the damage

 

That's only the external housing.
You need 4425050150 which is showing No Longer Available- https://www.lexussouthatlantaparts.c...425050150.html

Your local Lexus parts dept might have a reman option available, if not it's aftermarket or have yours rebuilt.

 

Yeah they told me they have an OEM rebuilt option over the phone that they would have to order, i was juat trying to find it online though thier storefront but it must have to be done by the parts man to really find what i need

 

Has anyone used discount parts monster with success, I think I just found the rack for 400!
https://www.discountpartsmonster.com...r-442505015084

 

I have, oem genuine stuff

 

Usually pretty quick on delivery and good at giving back core charge? They are in hollywood Florida and im in statesboro Ga. So i cant imagine turnaround being too bad

 

Delivery as good as can be I guess dont know about core charge.

 

I've never used them but was just reading the link ya posted. The top description says "remanufactured" but down in the details it claims it is "new". Ya might be better off calling and asking them all the important questions.
Ya need to keep an eye on the fine print.
Read everything carefully cuz I read in the return policy it said 30 day returns but then it says this;

• Lexus, Acura, BMW, Honda & Subaru parts will not be accepted for return or exchange 5 days after orders are received.