The steering racks on the C5 X7 are a case of
when not
if. They don't favour 1.6Hdi or 2.0Hdi (or any other variant !), nor steel sprung or hydropneumatic - they're all prone to it !! As so many have been replaced already it is entirely possible that they've already been fitted with modified or improved versions i.e. not Citroen originals, but ones that steering specialists have reconditioned or refurbished. It is possible to check for pinon seal leaks with nothing more complicated than a torch
You need to shine it in through the driver's side wheel and aim for where the steering column enters the steering rack and areas below that. I can take a photo and annotate it to show you where to look if you want. You're looking for evidence of LDS fluid leaking. When they leak the fluid will run down onto the suspension components below the rack on the drivers side - so if there's any sign of dampness or LDS fluid in that area you've got a problem. Another way to check for a leaking rack on your own vehicle is to keep a very close eye on the LDS fluid level in the reservoir - that's very easy to do on a steel sprung model as the reservoir is quite small and the level is externally visible, but not so easy on an HPN model
Another point I forgot to mention - check both front windows go up and down without issue or horrible noises. The winder cables were prone (nay - guaranteed
) to failure.
Obviously - check the steering rack pinion seal - if the steering rack hasn't been replaced yet, then it will need replacing in due course. On a test ride check for the tell tale clonk of worn drop links - easy enough to replace, but about £60 / pair (genuine) to buy, fitting extra. RNEG satnav is good enough for avergae use, but phone apps like Waze or Google Maps are far better these days. Check the two temperature controls on the aircon - the knobs (especially driver's side) can go intermittent. It may be possible to fix the knobs, but it's easy enough to replace the unit with a known working one. Rear crankshaft oil seal can leak - check for telltale oil at the bottom of the bellhousing. DMF can wear out / fail - check for rattling when driving. The Michelin tyres it's on are absolutely fine, but a change in tyre can give you much more precise handling.
