For light vehicles and small cars, rack and pinion steering systems usually provide sufficient handling performance and driving comfort. For heavy vehicles or large SUVs, power steering systems are particularly important. The weight and size of heavy vehicles make steering operations more difficult.

They are not the same concept. Rack and pinion is a specific mechanical structure responsible for converting the rotation of the steering wheel into the steering of the wheels; while power steering is an auxiliary system designed to reduce the amount of effort required by the driver during steering.

In the case of minor damage to the rack and pinion, the vehicle may still be able to continue to drive for a period of time, but this does not mean that it can continue to drive for a long time. Even if the symptoms are mild, continuing to drive will increase the risk.

When the rack and pinion are loose, the driver may feel that the steering wheel is abnormally loose. When the steering wheel is turned, the response of the vehicle becomes sluggish, and even more turning angles are required to cause the wheels to move.