There are three common steering rack problems in the Nissan Qashqai J11 (2013-2021):
- Steering rack creaking sounds and knocks when turning.
- Sudden loss of power steering.
- Unpredictable steering behavior.
Let’s see what can cause this and how to solve the problems.
Creaking and knocking sounds
This will usually appear after you drive at least 100,000 miles (160,000 kilometers). Here are the reasons:
- the steering rack’s elements are worn out;
- the steering rack mount is broken;
- the boots on the steering rack were torn and the mechanisms are dirty;
- the steering rack has lost all its lubricants.
Basically, this means that the steering rack is done. Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to properly repair the steering rack in your Nissan Qashqai, so if you experience these symptoms and the mileage is about 100K miles (160K km), just be ready to replace the steering rack.
You are lucky if the problem is with the rack mount but this is like 1 in 100 cases chance.
Sudden loss of power steering
The problem was very common for the first years of the Qashqai J11 generation.
There was even a recall for this problem but now the recall is expired and they won’t help you for free.
The electric power steering experiences problems and may just turn off. This is a serious safety bug and it can easily lead to a car accident!
If you experience this even once in your Qashqai, just remember that there are no DIY solutions and you can’t just ignore it.
Go directly to the dealership and have them inspect the steering rack and the power steering system. Otherwise, you are at risk of crashing your car at any moment!
Weird steering wheel behavior
Many Qashqai owners say the steering wheel is too heavy. But this can be just OK. Go to “Vehicle Settings”, choose “Steering Effort”, and play with the settings.
Also, remember that Qashqai just has a much heavier steering wheel in terms of the power steering settings than many other cars. If you normally drive a VAG car and have just jumped into the Qashqai, the heavy steering is just OK. Get used to it.
If the steering wheel feels weird and changes its power assist settings from time to time, you may need a proper inspection. Maybe, there are glitches in the software.
How much is it to replace the steering rack in the Qashqai?
On average, the Qashqai J11 steering rack replacement will cost you about 1,700 pounds/euros in the dealership and 20-25% cheaper than that in a good independent garage.
Unfortunately, this is not a DIY task – it requires a lot of special knowledge and equipment. Also, avoid buying used steering racks or non-OEM parts.
