Parts for your 2018 Mitsubishi Asx-Steering rack

2018 Mitsubishi ASX Steering Rack

Yes, the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX uses a steering rack. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Motors workshop manual for ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport (Group 37 – Steering), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and major repair databases such as Autodata/AllData describe the 2018 ASX as having an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear (EPS). That means a steering rack is absolutely relevant to servicing and parts selection for this model in Australia and New Zealand.

The steering rack is the heart of the ASX’s steering system. It converts the driver’s steering wheel input into precise side-to-side movement of the tie rods, turning the front wheels. On the 2018 ASX, the power assist is delivered by an electric motor and control unit integrated with the rack, so there’s no hydraulic pump, fluid, or hoses to worry about. Owners get a light, city-friendly feel at parking speeds and confident stability on the highway, all managed by the EPS system.

While the rack isn’t a routine replacement item, it benefits from regular checks as part of scheduled servicing. A technician will look over the rack boots (gaiters), inner and outer tie rods, and mounting bushes, and road test for any play or noise. Because it’s electric, there’s no power-steering fluid level to top up, but keeping boots intact is vital to protect the rack from grit and moisture. If the vehicle sees lots of corrugated roads or beach use, more frequent inspections are a smart move.

• Tell-tale signs it’s time for attention: free play or wandering, a notchiness or binding feel on turn, clunks over bumps, uneven tyre wear, a crooked steering wheel, an EPS warning light, or inconsistent steering weight.
• Good practice during replacement: disconnect the battery, lock the steering and mark the intermediate shaft, protect the clockspring, replace split pins and any single-use bolts, torque everything to spec, and finish with a four-wheel alignment. Many jobs will also need a steering angle sensor calibration and EPS relearn with a scan tool.

When choosing a replacement, quality matters. New or properly remanufactured racks that meet OEM spec will deliver better feel and longevity than cheap copies. Always match by VIN/build date to get the correct rack and tie rod lengths for the specific ASX variant. After installation, a precise alignment is non-negotiable, it preserves tyres and restores the straight-ahead feel. A tidy road test should confirm no knocks, no warning lights, and a steering effort that’s even lock-to-lock. For WOF/roadworthy in NZ and Australia, inspectors will flag any play, torn boots, or leaks from associated components, so keeping the steering gear in top nick pays off.

Popular questions

Does the 2018 ASX use hydraulic or electric power steering?
It uses electric power steering (EPS) integrated with a rack-and-pinion steering rack. There’s no hydraulic fluid or belt-driven pump, which makes it cleaner to maintain and typically more efficient. Older platforms sometimes used hydraulic assist, but the 2018 ASX is EPS across local variants.

How long should a steering rack last on a 2018 ASX?
With normal driving and intact rack boots, many racks last well beyond 150,000 km. Rough roads, modified wheels/tyres, or torn gaiters can shorten that lifespan. Regular inspections at service time help catch inner tie rod wear or boot damage early, before the rack itself is affected.

Do you need an alignment after rack or tie-rod work?
Yes. Any time the rack or inner/outer tie rods are disturbed, a four-wheel alignment is essential. It centres the steering, protects tyres, and ensures the ASX tracks straight. After alignment, a quick scan-tool calibration of the steering angle sensor may also be required.