Cardone 97-2691 Rack and Pinion Assembly

Rack and Pinion Assembly for Hyundai and Kia

Cardone 97-2691 is a new rack and pinion assembly engineered for direct replacement in select Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, and Kia Forte5 applications with electronic power steering. Built with aluminum casting and tested for fit, function, and steering performance, it is designed to restore precise steering response and consistent road feel.

The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly line focuses on new, application-specific steering components that are reverse-engineered to address original design weaknesses. This approach helps deliver a replacement rack that meets or exceeds OEM performance targets while maintaining the steering characteristics expected in daily driving.

Key Features

• Cardone part number 97-2691
• New rack and pinion assembly for steering system replacement
• Aluminum casting for durable construction
• Computerized spool valve balancing for consistent steering feel
• Performance-tested for fit, function, and reliable operation
• Supplied with OEM-grade seals, O-rings, and boots for sealing performance and longevity
• Environmentally friendly coating on tie rods and lines helps resist rust and maintain a clean appearance
• Includes rack and pinion, insert, and instruction sheet
• Outer tie rod ends included

Detailed Description

Cardone 97-2691 is a rack and pinion assembly built for vehicles equipped with electronic power steering and specific wheel configurations. It fits 2010-2013 Kia Forte, 2012-2013 Kia Forte5, and 2008-2012 Hyundai Elantra applications listed below. The assembly uses a 57.55-inch rack length, 4 mounting holes, a 14.13/3.62-inch mounting hole spacing, and a 2.75 lock-to-lock turn ratio to match the original steering geometry for the covered vehicles. This part cross-references Hyundai 565002H200 and Kia 565002H200 for the same application.

Compatible With 2010-2013 Kia Forte, N/A; 2012-2013 Kia Forte5, N/A; 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra, N/A with 15-inch wheels or 16-inch wheels; and 2008 Hyundai Elantra, N/A from 07/04/2007. Use Cardone 97-2691 when replacing a worn steering rack on these Hyundai and Kia models and you need a direct-fit assembly built to OEM-style specifications.

What It Helps Address

• Loose or inconsistent steering response
• Steering play caused by wear in the rack and pinion assembly
• Fluid sealing concerns related to aging internal seals and boots
• Rust or corrosion on exposed steering components
• Fitment issues from using an incorrect steering rack for the vehicle configuration

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the vehicle’s year, make, model, wheel size, and electronic power steering configuration before installation. Confirm mounting hole spacing, input shaft length, and rack length against the original unit to ensure proper fit. Because installation hardware is not listed, reuse or source the required hardware as needed. After installation, perform a full alignment and steering system inspection.

Quality Assurance

Cardone uses reverse-engineering expertise to refine original design weaknesses and produce new steering components that meet strict SAE specifications. Each unit is tested to help ensure reliable, long-lasting performance and consistent operation in the covered Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, and Kia Forte5 applications.