Parts for your 2017 Toyota Crown-Steering rack

2017 Toyota Crown steering rack: what it is, why it matters, and when to service it

Referencing Toyota’s technical literature and service data, the 2017 Toyota Crown (S210 series facelift) is fitted with a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear using Electric Power Steering (EPS). This is documented in the Toyota Technical Information System (TIS), the Crown S210 Repair Manual steering section, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, which list a steering gear assembly (EPS rack) for 2015–2018 Crown models.

On this model, the steering rack converts the driver’s steering‑wheel input into precise left‑right movement at the wheels, while the integrated electric motor provides power assist for a light, consistent feel. Compared with old hydraulic setups, the EPS rack improves efficiency, reduces parasitic losses, and allows clever features like assist tuning and steering angle calibration. It’s the bit that keeps the Crown tracking straight on the motorway and feeling planted through roundabouts, even with a boot full of luggage.

While a steering rack isn’t a routine replacement item, it should be inspected as part of scheduled servicing. Sensible checks every 10,000–20,000 kilometres include:

• Rack boots (bellows) for tears or grease contamination
• Inner and outer tie rod play, and lock‑nut security
• Clunks, notchiness, or free play on centre
• Uneven tyre wear or the car wandering off‑line
• EPS warning light or intermittent heavy steering

If the rack or rack ends are worn, or a boot is split, sort it before grit and moisture damage the gear. On EPS racks there’s no fluid to leak, but water ingress can still shorten the unit’s life.

Replacement is a professional job. The battery should be disconnected to protect the EPS module, the subframe may need supporting, and the rack must be centred before tie rods are set. After installation, a wheel alignment is essential, and a steering angle zero‑point calibration/initialisation should be performed with a scan tool per Toyota TIS. New boot clamps, fresh tie‑rod lock nuts, and correct torque on all fasteners are must‑dos. Avoid hammering ball joints, use the proper pullers to prevent damage.

With reasonable roads and driving habits, many Crowns will see well over 150,000 km on the original rack. Keeping tyres correctly inflated, avoiding hard kerb strikes, and addressing suspension bush wear early will help the steering rack live a long, quiet life.

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Crown steering racks

Does the 2017 Crown use an electric or hydraulic steering rack?
The 2017 Crown uses an electric power steering (EPS) rack‑and‑pinion unit. The assist motor and ECU are integrated with the rack, which means no hydraulic pump, hoses, or fluid. Some higher grades may feature variable‑ratio control integrated with the EPS logic.

What symptoms point to a worn steering rack on a 2017 Crown?
Tell‑tales include free play on centre, knocking over small bumps, notchiness as the wheel is turned, uneven tyre wear, the car tramlining or wandering, and an EPS warning lamp. Torn rack boots or excessive inner/outer tie‑rod movement are also red flags.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing the steering rack?
Yes. After any rack or tie‑rod work, a full alignment is required. The EPS also needs a steering angle zero‑point calibration with a scan tool so the assist and lane systems behave properly. Skipping these steps can leave the steering off‑centre or inconsistent.