HomeSteering > Steering, Gear and Related ComponentsCardone 26-9004 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Part #: 26-9004

Cardone 26-9004 Rack and Pinion Assembly

Rack and Pinion Assembly
32 vehicles fit this part
Select your vehicle to confirm fitment
Verify this part fits before purchasing — free returns if it doesn't
$352.15Free Shipping
Free ShippingNo Cost to Continental U.S.
Free Returns*Wrong fit? No cost
60-Day ReturnsMoney back guarantee
*Free return shipping only qualifies if our fitment verification tool is used.
In Stock · Ready To Ship Most orders ship same-day if ordered before 1pm CST.
OE Direct Replacement — Bolt-on fit, no modifications needed
Rack and Pinion Assembly
Fitment: Volkswagen, Beetle, Golf, and Jetta
Easy Returns — Return within 60 days for a full refund
Fast Shipping — Most orders ship same business day before 1pm CST

Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-9004

The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-9004 is designed specifically for Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta models. This remanufactured steering component ensures reliable steering performance by combining durable steel and aluminum casting materials.

  • Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly for Volkswagen vehicles
  • Constructed with steel and aluminum for strength and weight efficiency
  • Includes tie rod ends for complete installation
  • Black steering rack color with precise mounting hole spacing of 4.13 inches (104.78 mm)
  • Input shaft diameter of 0.65 inches (16.43 mm) and length of 2.63 inches (66.68 mm)
  • Pressure port thread size M14 x 1.5 and return port thread size M16 x 1.5
  • Banjo/washer type hose port for secure fluid connections
  • Total turns lock to lock: 2.94 for responsive steering control

About the Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly Product Line

The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly product line focuses on remanufactured steering gear components that meet or exceed OEM specifications. This line is engineered to restore steering precision and reliability in vehicles such as the Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta. Each assembly includes necessary hardware like tie rod ends and is built with a combination of steel and aluminum casting materials to balance durability and weight.

Detailed Product Description

This remanufactured rack and pinion assembly (part number 26-9004) is tailored for Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta models, providing a direct replacement for worn or damaged steering racks. The assembly features a 49.5-inch (1257.3 mm) rack length and two mounting holes spaced 4.13 inches (104.78 mm) apart, ensuring proper fitment and secure installation. The input shaft measures 0.65 inches (16.43 mm) in diameter and 2.63 inches (66.68 mm) in length, compatible with the vehicle’s steering column interface. The hose port uses a banjo/washer type connection, and the pressure and return ports have thread sizes M14 x 1.5 and M16 x 1.5 respectively, matching factory specifications. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a clean appearance under the hood.

Common Steering Issues Addressed by This Rack and Pinion Assembly

  • Hard steering during initial minutes of driving (often called "morning sickness")
  • Power steering pump whining caused by air in the system
  • Steering not returning to center after turns due to worn rack components
  • Loose or imprecise steering feel from damaged or worn rack and pinion
  • Leaking or damaged steering rack causing fluid loss and steering issues

Installation Notes and Tips

  • Ensure the mounting holes align precisely with the vehicle’s frame using the 4.13-inch spacing
  • Check input shaft dimensions (0.65 inch diameter, 2.63 inch length) for compatibility before installation
  • Bleed the power steering system thoroughly after installation to remove air and prevent pump noise
  • Use the included tie rod ends to complete the steering linkage assembly
  • Follow manufacturer torque specifications for pressure and return port fittings (M14 x 1.5 and M16 x 1.5 threads)

Quality Assurance and Warranty

The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-9004 is remanufactured to meet OEM standards, ensuring reliable performance and durability. Each unit undergoes rigorous testing to verify proper function and fitment for Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta models. Warranty coverage details are provided by Cardone and typically include protection against defects in materials and workmanship.

BrandCardone
Part Number26-9004
PositionRack and Pinion Assembly
Casting MaterialSteel; Aluminum
Distance Between Mounting Holes (in)4.13
Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm)104.78
E-WasteNo
Hose Port TypeBanjo/Washer
Input Shaft Diameter (in)0.65
Input Shaft Diameter (mm)16.43
Input Shaft Length (in)2.63
Input Shaft Length (mm)66.68
Number of Mounting Holes2
Package ContentsRack and Pinion, Instruction Sheet
Pressure Port Thread SizeM14 x 1.5
Product ConditionRemanufactured
Rack Length (in)49.50
Rack Length (mm)1257.30
Return Port Thread SizeM16 x 1.5
Steering Rack ColorBlack
Thread Length (in)2.45
Thread Length (mm)62.23
Tie Rod Ends IncludedYes
Total Turns Lock to Lock2.94

This part fits 32 vehicles. Search below:

YearMakeModelBody Type# DoorsLitersCylindersFuel TypePositionNotes
2007VolkswagenBeetleConvertible2 DoorN/Awith Sport Suspension; To Chassis # 1Y-7-413 420; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2007VolkswagenBeetleHatchback2 DoorN/Awith Sport Suspension; To Chassis # 1C-7-512 080; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2006VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2006VolkswagenGolfN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2005VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2005VolkswagenGolfN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2005VolkswagenJettaN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2004VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2004VolkswagenGolfN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2004VolkswagenJettaN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2003VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2003VolkswagenGolfN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2003VolkswagenJettaN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2002VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2002VolkswagenGolfN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2002VolkswagenJettaN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2001VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2001VolkswagenGolfN/ABrazil Built; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2001VolkswagenGolfN/AGerman Built; without Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2001VolkswagenJettaN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2000VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2000VolkswagenGolfN/ABrazil Built; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2000VolkswagenGolfN/AGerman Built; without Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
2000VolkswagenJettaN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1999VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1999VolkswagenGolf2.8LV6N/AInstall in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1999VolkswagenGolf1.9LL4DIESELN/AInstall in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1999VolkswagenGolf2.0LL4N/AInstall in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1999VolkswagenJetta2.8LV6N/AInstall in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1999VolkswagenJetta2.0LL4N/AInstall in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1999VolkswagenJetta1.9LL4DIESELN/AInstall in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly
1998VolkswagenBeetleN/Awithout Variable Ratio Steering; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly

* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.

This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:

1J0422803A1J0422803B1J0422803D1J0422804A1J0422804B1J0422804D1J1422055AN1J1422061AA1J1422061AN1J1422061N1J1422062F

Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.