So my 04 rx8 had power steering issues, i cleaned the connections and eliminated the connections under the coolant overflow. It worked great for a few months then again issues but this time worse. There were 3 times where the wheel became too heavy to turn. Well then i was pulling out of my driveway and the wheel completely seized up. I backed it back into my driveway crooked with the wheels locked at a 45 degree angle. I also ran independent wires from the eps module right to the tork sensor. The wheel is frozen solid this time. The last time it seemed to break free. My battery also died from the car sitting. The DSC off light is flashing, and traction control is solid. I am buying a new rack and pinion tomorrow. Is there anything else it could be? Im stumped.

 

Check out the ignition lock.....

I have never seen a rack completely seize solid...but the ignition lock is designed to do that

 

Where is it located? How is it possible that it locked while mid turn? I can still turn the key. How would i go about checking it out?

 

If the rack is seized you will still feel like the steering wheel will turn a bit. That is the slack in the steering column and the u joints. If the ignition is locked it will feel more solid...and like it is stuck closer to the steering wheel.

I guess you could undo one of the steering shaft u joints to check it out as well....

 

Maybe a 1/4 inch of play in the wheel. When i turn it my interior lights will dim slightly. So its draining power

 

Ok i loosened the bolts on the u joints. Still won't budge. I have the steering wheel off now but cant find the locking mechanism. Any help?

 

Ok i completely removed the wheel locking mechanism. The wheel still is locked up. I also loosened both bolts on the U joints. I sprayed them with penetrating oil but it still won't free up. The u joints dont look binded up so im assuming its something in the rack and pinion assembly. I am going to replace that tomorrow.