how can i tell when my rack and pinion gone bad?

How many miles are on it? That info would help. The most obvious failure would be that you turn the wheel all the way to one side and slowly accelerate. If the car does not straighten out by itself the rack is shot. The front end being all over the place is usually worn suspension components. That car isn't very old so you or someone else was driving the piss out of it to be so sloppy.

Hey chris a t,

I'm not a trained technician, but I do happen to know where you'll find some. I recommend popping in to your local Ford Dealer for an inspection.

You may locate one and make an appointment online here: http://owner.ford.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagena...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Todd

Ford Service

guess by the steering, not responsive or tight anymore..if its loose-like then its bad most likely