Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Steering rack

2017 Nissan Serena steering rack: purpose, care and replacement

Based on technical references including the Nissan Serena C27 Electronic Service Manual (ST: Steering), industry data from Autodata/HaynesPro, and Nissan engineering information released with the C27 launch, the 2017 Nissan Serena uses an electric power–assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear. So yes, a steering rack is fitted and very much relevant to this model.

On the 2017 Serena, the steering rack converts the driver’s steering wheel input into precise left–right movement of the front wheels. It’s a rack-and-pinion design with electric power assist, giving light effort at parking speeds and a settled feel on the motorway. Because it’s EPS, there’s no hydraulic pump or fluid lines to worry about, but the mechanical heart of the system is still the rack assembly with its inner tie rods, outer tie rod ends, and protective boots (gaiters).

Good servicing keeps the van tracking straight and the tyres wearing evenly. Sensible checks during routine servicing include:

• Inspecting rack boots for splits, grease seepage, or water ingress.
• Checking inner and outer tie rods for play and smooth articulation.
• Listening for knocks over bumps or a vague on‑centre feel.
• Verifying wheel alignment after any front-end work or kerb strike.

Because this Serena runs EPS, there’s no power steering fluid reservoir. If a workshop suggests topping up fluid, that’d be a red flag—this model doesn’t use it. Any stiffness, grinding, or clunking usually points to worn tie rods, a damaged boot letting grit in, or wear within the rack itself.

When replacement is on the cards, the job typically involves supporting the subframe, disconnecting tie rods, dropping the rack, and fitting a quality reman or new unit. Best practice on the C27 is to centre the rack and steering wheel before removal, lock the clockspring, replace any one‑time‑use locknuts/bolts as specified, and torque all fasteners to the ESM specs. After installation, a four‑wheel alignment is essential, and the EPS/steering angle sensor should be reset and calibrated with a scan tool. For Serena models with driver-assist features, confirming ADAS calibrations are within spec after alignment is also wise.

Typical signs a Serena rack may be past its best include uneven tyre wear despite correct pressures, a knock felt through the column on rough roads, or free play detected at the inner joints during a shake-down. Catching small issues—like a torn boot—early can save the rack from premature wear and keep the family hauler feeling tidy on Kiwi and Aussie roads.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Serena steering racks

How can an owner tell if the Serena’s steering rack or tie rods are worn?
Common giveaways are a light knock over small bumps, steering that feels loose around centre, or uneven tyre wear that keeps coming back after alignments. With the wheels off the ground, a technician may feel play at the inner tie rods or see a split boot letting grit and water into the rack.

Any notchiness when turning lock-to-lock or a steering wheel that doesn’t return smoothly from a corner also points to internal wear. A proper inspection and alignment check will confirm it.

Does the 2017 Serena use power steering fluid?
No. The C27 Serena uses electric power steering (EPS), so there’s no hydraulic fluid, pump, or hoses. If there’s a leak at the rack, it’ll usually be grease from the inner joints or contamination from a torn boot, not power steering fluid.

That’s why regular checks of the rack boots and joint play are the key maintenance items for this system.

Is a wheel alignment needed after steering rack or tie rod work?
Absolutely. Any time the rack, inner tie rods, or outer tie rod ends are replaced or adjusted, a wheel alignment is required. Without it, the Serena may wander, scrub tyres, or have a crooked steering wheel.

After alignment, the steering angle sensor should be reset with a scan tool so the EPS and stability systems know the true straight‑ahead position.