Q: What are the signs and symptoms of a leaking rack and pinion?

Motor vehicle safety inspections in almost all U.S. jurisdictions do not cover maintenance and ordinary wear and tear, including de minimus "leaks", unless the "defect" found creates an immediate, obvious, and direct impact on the safety of the vehicle or the level of exhaust emissions.

If you have a de minimus leak of fluid from the steering system, that is, a leak so small that you are not regularly refilling the power steering fluid reservoir, it has no meaningful immediate impact on the safety of the vehicle. To detect a leak of the type you are referring to, you would look for visible fluid on the rack, rack ends, interconnecting pressure and return hoses, or the power steering pump.

Of course, it is preferable to have zero leakage, but it is also a priority that you know your rights when it comes to dealing with motor vehicle inspection facilities. The bottom line is they would have to show you a meaningful leak in order to have the right to refuse to issue an inspection sticker. If there is a meaningful leak, you should get a second opinion as to the cost you were quoted.

I recommend having a certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, inspect for any leaking fluid and determine if any repairs are needed.