Cardone 22-258 Rack and Pinion Assembly

Electronic Power Steering Rack for Escape and Tribute

Cardone 22-258 is a remanufactured electronic power steering rack and pinion assembly built for direct OE-style fitment on select Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute applications. It is engineered with new premium components, replaced rubber sealing parts, and a specialized lubricant to support long-term steering performance.

This rack and pinion assembly is a practical replacement for drivers searching for a remanufactured steering rack for 2001-2004 Mazda Tribute or 2001-2003 Ford Escape models with hydraulic power steering, and for 2004 Ford Escape models built before 12/22/2003 with P235/70R16 tires.

Key Features

• Remanufactured Original Equipment-style rack and pinion assembly
• Cardone 22-258 electronic power steering rack and pinion design
• New spool valve seals and rack donut seals installed where applicable
• 100% replacement of rubber sealing components
• Specialized lubricant applied for extended service life
• Protective finish helps resist corrosion and rust
• Factory test drive verifies operation under demanding conditions
• Aluminum housing with black steering rack finish
• Includes inner tie rods and sealing kit

Product Details

Cardone 22-258 is a remanufactured rack and pinion assembly for steering systems that require precise hydraulic response and OE-level fit. The unit measures 50.00 inches in rack length, uses an aluminum casting, and features an O-ring hose port type with 2 mounting holes. It is built for direct replacement service on Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute vehicles listed in the fitment data, making it a strong match for searches such as remanufactured steering rack for 2001-2004 Mazda Tribute with hydraulic power steering or Ford Escape rack and pinion assembly before 12/22/2003.

This part cross-references Ford (e.g., YL8Z3504KBRM, YL8Z3280EA) for the same application.

Common Steering Problems It Can Address

• Excessive steering play or loose steering feel
• Internal fluid leakage from worn rack seals
• Hard steering after startup or during initial driving
• Steering that does not return smoothly after a turn
• Noise or poor hydraulic response from a worn rack assembly

Installation Notes

Compatible With 2001-2003 Ford Escape, N/A; 2004 Ford Escape, N/A before 12/22/2003; and 2001-2004 Mazda Tribute, N/A, with P235/70R16 tires and hydraulic power steering. Notes in the fitment data specify inner tie rods, an in-line filter recommendation, and the use of suggested OE fluid with a complete system flush. Bleed the steering system thoroughly after installation to remove air and restore proper hydraulic operation.

If the steering is hard for the first few minutes of driving, inspect the system for air, fluid condition, and pump operation. If the vehicle does not return to center, check front-end alignment and the return line for restriction or kinks.

Quality Assurance

Each Cardone electronic power steering rack and pinion undergoes a factory test drive that simulates extreme operating conditions while checking on-car communications. The remanufacturing process replaces sealing components, applies specialized lubricant, and uses a protective coating to support durability and corrosion resistance. Cardone’s process also reduces energy and raw material use compared with manufacturing a new part.