Originally Posted by Jpeterski

Does the rack need to be programmed after install or is just plug and play?

Originally Posted by Tec80

Problem found!
Root cause: contamination by water intrusion (R boot and wiper seal both failed to keep water out of the rack innards).
The rack with the right side endcap removed - note the rust:

After removing the motor housing (hold the housing, lift the whole thing and smack it a few times hitting the end of the rack shaft on a piece of wood on the floor) - again, note the rust:

Beads of water are visible on the winding endcap, and corrosion on the com pads (or whatever they are called, it's a brushless motor):

And I was able to duplicate the "old-school roller skate wheel bearing" noise, because water got into the ball screw and corroded the ball bearings (rack is toast). I attached a video of the noise.

I ordered a new rack from Wesley Chapel Lexus, $2062 shipped. At least I found the issue and determined that it wasn't easily fixable. Hope this helps someone diagnose their noise! Now I have a new paranoia about the right side rack boot and wiper seal......