Most problems with sourcing alternative Steering Racks for Vauxhalls arise from people ordering parts without first checking the VIN number of their car. A model can look exactly the same from year to year but have totally different Steering Racks fitted as standard, not only between model years but also between cars produced in different places.

Find Your VIN First

The VIN is stamped into a plate located on the driver’s side inner door trim or at the bottom of the windscreen.

For Vauxhall Steering Racks, see https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/vehicles/vauxhall/.

What the VIN Characters Tell You

Manufacturer code (positions 1-3) and country of construction (positions 1-3) followed by model line code (positions 4-8), model type code (positions 4-8) and engine code (positions 5-8). Position 11 shows the production plant code for steering.

Why Build Year Matters

Position 10 details the model year. Most people know that in Vauxhall’s earlier days the model year changed at the end of August but since the rebrand from Opel this is no longer the case. In reality the steering rack can be changed mid model year so for example a front mount on a first year car of a new model generation may not fit a car 2 years later even though they look identical.

Cross-Reference the Stamped Part Number

Once you have your VIN details cross-referenced against your Vauxhall steering rack part number (found on the stalk of the existing rack) you will be able to determine whether or not your replacement Vauxhall steering rack has the correct specification.

Confirm Fitment Before You Order

For Vauxhall steering rack fitment by VIN and part number, see.

Taking 5 minutes to confirm all of the information will save you a wasted journey and delay to your repair.