Hi,

I have a 2002 Honda Civic SiR (or Si in US), and it has been having
steering problems:

on launching, or at low speeds when the throttle is applied, there is
a creaking sound coming from inside the dash. The sound is similar to
an old door opening where the hinges need oil. Some times it is
particularly loud and at others just a slight screech.

I took it in to the dealership 6 months ago (under full warranty) and
they told me it was the clutch rubbing the wrong thing and they told
me they fixed it. The problem came back eventually but it was fairly
minor and I just left it alone. However, last week the problem became
extremely loud, and got me really worried about the part.

I took it back to the dealership, and they told me that I needed to
replace the steering rack, and the whole thing will cost about
$2000CDN since the car is no longer under full warranty. I simply
can't afford that, so I'm planning to ignore the problem until
something seriouly breaks and I absolutely have to fix the car.

Now, what's your opinion on this problem? Is there anything I can do?
Please help! Thank you!

James