Hey All

My '06 6spd 158k mile TL has a pronounced noise sometimes when turning the steering wheel.
I captured a video of the noise here (engine off, just rocking the wheel back and forth).


The noise seems to be coming from the steering rack itself.

Rack is an Autozone reman, replaced in March-2017 due to the OEM rack leaking. Outer tie rod ends were replaced during that time as well. Power steering pump was resealed at that time. Power steering fluid level is currently full, and I haven't been adding any fluid to it. No power steering fluid leaks noticed. Steering feels fine, with no issues when driving it. The same sounds are present when driving. Most noticeable at low speeds/sharp turns.

Car was lowered when I bought it. I unlowered it, and it's riding on OEM springs & KYB GR-2 dampers. Upper and lower ball joints are not leaking grease and appear to be okay. Compliance bushings are looking worse for the wear, and I'll probably change the out with PCI bearings in the future.

Does this sound like the rack to you? Anything else I should troubleshoot? I really, really don't want to have to replace the rack. While it's warrantied through Autozone, changing it out is hard.

Thanks