Welcome to the Meridian Learning Center
Frequently Asked Questions

What is Remanufactured?
Remanufactured is a better way of replacing automotive parts.  Anytime you see something that has a core charge or exchange price associated with it you know you are buying remanufactured parts. (The 'core' is the industry term used to describe the part that is currently in the car and not working correctly)  Remanufacturing has grown in popularity as remanufacturers have become better at what they do and as testing equipment has become more advanced.  With today's technology we can often rebuild parts better than the new ones from the factory because we know where trouble spots might be and are able to fix them before they leave the shop.   

Much like coke cans and bottles have deposits on them because they can be recycled, the core you have can usually be remanufactured and then sold again. By sending us your old part we are able to dramatically lower the cost of components and save you money.  Recycling old cores is also an environmentally friendly way to save money. Each of our products ship with everything you need to send the core back, including the box, labels and prepaid shipping.  Once we receive your core we will remove the deposit from your credit card.  See the Core Policy page to find out more.  

The only difference between remanufactured and new is the price.  New parts can cost thousands of dollars, but because many parts only need minor fixes to work properly, the concept of remanufactured has become very popular.  All of our parts are completely remanufactured and have a limited lifetime warranty, (unless otherwise noted) which you won't find on new parts. Visit our Products section to learn more.

There is also a difference between used, rebuilt, refurbished, repaired, reconditioned, overhauled, replacement, OEM, aftermarket and new.  Do not be fooled by the term used, but rather find out what they do with the part.  Meridian's parts are completely disassembled, cleaned and checked.  Only cores that meat the toughest requirements will go on.  We replace seals, bushings, and bearings.  Then we reassemble and test the system on advanced machines.  Our unsurpassed quality is why we can offer a lifetime warranty on our parts. 

It is why 2500 Automotive Dealerships and Mechanics trust us to supply their steering parts.

***Visit our Core Policy Page to learn more***  

What about new?
Usually we stock or can get an aftermarket or new part if you require.  We do strongly recommend Meridian Remanufactured parts because of the cost savings, environmental impact, and high quality.  

Can I replace this part myself?  Do you provide support?
Most experienced people who have done work on their car before do not have too much trouble installing a rack and pinion system.  Most estimates put a rack installation at about 4 hours, or a half day.  Depending on the make and experience, however, the level of time can vary greatly.  We always recommend using an official book for your car, and completing the job with a new alignment service.  If you are not sure, we always recommend having an automotive professional install your rack for you.   

Unfortunately we do not provide support on the actual installation.  We are happy to help when it comes to troubleshooting or finding your part.  Give us a call or email for that.

What comes with your Racks?
Our racks are complete assemblies which include inner tie rod ends and boots.  They do not include outer tie rod ends.  If you need to replace the outer tie rod ends, we recommend getting them from the dealer.  If you are wondering about whether or not you need to replace them, you should consult a professional.  

What is the deal with the core?  Why am I being charged a deposit?
The core you have can usually be remanufactured and then sold again. By sending us your old part we are able to dramatically lower the cost of components and save you money.  Recycling old cores is also an environmentally friendly way to save money. Each of our products ship with everything you need to send the core back, including the box, labels and prepaid shipping.  Once we receive your core we will refund the deposit to your credit card.  See the Core Policy under the company section.  

Do you match prices?
Meridian actively works to be aggressive in pricing.  We know there are competitors out there who sell cheaper, but it's really not cheaper if you have to reinstall the part because it is defective.  Defective rates in the remanufactured industry often run at 60% or higher for some companies. 

Meridian is a leader in quality control to ensure one of the lowest defect rates in the industry.  We guarantee our products and offer a limited lifetime warranty.  

We know the most important thing is to have your car working and back on the road.  If a part is defective it can cost you dramatically in car rental fees, lost time and shipping costs.  Meridian guarantees our parts and will pay shipping on defective parts in the US.  If purchased and installed through a dealer or mechanic, we can even reimburse labor charges for installing replacement parts through our optional labor guard warranty.  Ask for Meridian by name, always the best value in the long run.

We offer discounts to automotive professionals and we are always running specials.  Contact us to learn more.

I went through your categories and you don't have my part?
The likely answer is that you are looking for the wrong part.  If you searched in Rack and Pinion, try Steering Gear Box.  Some manufacturers only use one or the other, and thus nothing may show up under that category.  Check out our Find My Car section for more information.   If that doesn't work,  give us a call to look more closely.

Very new, very old, rare cars, or performance products will have to be looked up specially.  Please note that Meridian spells Gear Box as two words, instead of Gearbox.  

I want my car part remanufactured, can you do that?
Sure, no problem.   Give us a call to find out more. Please note that this can take up to a week to get it back to you, although it is usally only a day or two turnaround. 

The part you sent doesn't work?
Meridian has excellent support. Check the troubleshoot section and give us a call and we'll determine the appropriate course of action.  

What about CV Drive axles, Power Steering Pumps, and Transmissions?
We currently do not offer these products online but will be adding in the future.  Give us a call to get info or buy these products.