I have 98K miles. I start my car one day and my power steering goes kaput. I take it in to MetroFord Miami, and they find codes B-2277 and and C2792. They tell me I have to replace the Rack and Pinion Gear Assembly (Part #6M6Z-3504-AA) for a grand total of $2,210.99. Meanwhile, the bluebook is $6800 to $8000. Ugh.

One of my student's dad is a mechanic. He finds the part used for $400. Apparently, Ford has this part under lock and key so it's impossible to find cheaper than $1250 anywhere. I'm going with my local mechanic and the entire bill is going to be $800 as opposed to the $2200 MetroFord Miami was charging me.

I'll let you know how the repair goes. Has anyone had this issue?

 

No, but good save. The dealers will merrily change parts and charge you until you say "UNCLE".

 

UPDATE: Turns out it wasn't a great save. Ugh. 1) I order the part used from a local mechanic who find the only used "rack and pinion for my '06 FEH in America" (part 6M6Z 3504 AA) for $400. He installs it. Does NOT correct the problem. The repair was seemingly outside of his league. 2) I take it for a 2nd opinion an hour north to West Palm Beach Ford (Al Packer) and they diagnose it to be the PSCM. A $1000 fix compared with the $2200 rack and pinion fix Miami's Metro Ford diagnosed it with. THE PROBLEM IS SOLVED.

Now I'm stuck with a perfectly fine rack and pinion (part #6M6Z 3504 AA) taken out of my Ford. I ended up just leaving the replaced one in my truck so as to avoid more labor fees. Ugh. I don't suggest Miami's MetroFord.

 

Sounds like you have the market cornered. Sell it on eBay for a profit.

 

Ugh. I wish. I'm having trouble giving it away much less a profit.