Parts for your 2018 Haval H6-Steering rack

2018 Haval H6 steering rack — what it does and how to look after it

Based on technical references including the GWM/Haval H6 2017–2018 Workshop Manual (Steering System section), the 2018 Haval H6 Owner’s Manual specifications, and mainstream parts catalogues used in AU/NZ workshops (e.g., Autodata and major trade listings), this model uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with electric power assist (EPS). So yes, a steering rack is fitted and very relevant to servicing a 2018 H6.

The steering rack converts the driver’s steering wheel input into precise left–right movement of the front wheels. On the 2018 H6 it’s assisted by an electric motor rather than hydraulic fluid, which trims weight and maintenance, and helps the vehicle deliver light parking effort with solid road feel at speed. The rack works with the inner and outer tie-rod ends, steering angle sensor and the EPS control module to keep the SUV tracking straight and true.

While there’s no power-steering fluid to change on the H6’s EPS setup, the rack and its linkages still benefit from periodic checks. Tell-tales that the rack or related parts need attention include excess play or a knock felt through the wheel on bumps, on-centre wander, uneven tyre wear, a crooked steering wheel after bumps or kerb hits, or a steering/ESC warning light with EPS fault codes. Split rack boots can let in grit and water, accelerating wear of the rack bar and inner tie rods.

• Inspection cadence: look over the rack boots, inner/outer tie-rod ends and subframe fasteners at each service (10,000–15,000 km) or after a hard knock to a wheel.
• If boots are torn: replace promptly and check the inner tie rods for roughness or play.
• After any rack or tie-rod work: perform a four-wheel alignment and recalibrate the steering angle sensor with a scan tool.
• Battery health matters on EPS: low voltage can trigger steering warnings or heavy steering behaviour.
• Avoid pressure-washing directly at the rack boots or electrical connectors.

When replacement is required, choose a quality new or professionally remanufactured EPS-compatible rack assembly for the H6. Use new tie-rod lock nuts, avoid hammering the knuckles (use a puller), and torque fasteners to spec. Most workshops will road test, scan for DTCs, and complete the steering angle reset after the alignment. Done right, the H6’s steering stays light, accurate and drama-free for many kilometres.

Popular questions

Does the 2018 Haval H6 use a steering rack or a steering box?
It uses a rack-and-pinion steering rack with electric power assist. This is documented in the H6 Workshop Manual’s Steering section and reflected in AU/NZ parts catalogues listing a complete steering gear assembly for the 2018 H6 models.

How long should a steering rack last on a 2018 H6?
With normal driving and intact rack boots, many EPS racks run well past 150,000–250,000 km. Harsh roads, big pothole strikes, oversized wheels/tyres, or split boots can shorten that. Tie-rod ends typically wear before the rack bar itself and can be serviced separately.

What’s involved in replacing the steering rack on a 2018 H6?
A workshop will support the subframe as required, remove the old rack, transfer or fit new inner/outer tie rods, install the new unit, then complete a wheel alignment and steering angle sensor calibration. Expect a scan-tool health check and road test to ensure EPS assistance and centring are spot on.