Replacing the rack and pinion- the engine and transmission have to be removed?!??
 

A few weeks ago a guy hit my truck making an illegal u-turn and hit the front right side of my truck, messing up the suspension and axle along with my bumper cover and quarter panel. It left my steering wheel at around a 30 degree angle when going straight forward...

Got a call today that my truck won’t be ready for another week or so because when they got it back from the alignment shop and took it for a test ride the wheel (paraphrasing) would go out again, and that the rack and pinion are damaged and will be replaced. He’s said he’s going to use brand new Toyota parts and said that to replace the rack and pinion the motor and transmission have to be removed...

Is that true?!

Bonus question- is there anything I should have them check or replace while they have everything out?

Thanks everyone!

I suppose it's possible, but if so, it's a poor design. However, if true, I'd want to see what things look like with the engine and trans out. I'd be looking for evidence of leaks on the engine and trans and other things that don't look right in the engine bay and frame.

Might be other damage to look for from the accident, like cracks in the transfer case, engine and transmission. With them out you can see much better all around. Also take note of where things are grounded and that all ground straps are re-connected.

I'd still research if it's necessary though - it's a lot of work. Call around to other places or ask the dealer; as the procedure has to be in the manual.

Steering rack replacement - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum

From post #6... on a 2011...

"Yup, been there done that. It's expensive because they have to lift the engine a bit (not right out) to replace the rack. Couple days in the shop and something like 10-12 hours of labour. My rack failure was more than likely off road related."

Thank you @johnbt !

Apparently the insurance companies pay for 17 hours of labor for the job...

Yup, I have heard it's easily a $2500 or $3k job.