Hello!

If the vehicle took a direct hit on the LF wheel, there is indeed a good possibility of internal rack damage.

The collision shop perparing the estimate for the insurance claim should be made aware that there is now free play in the steering which was not there before the accident, and the source of the free play should be investigated by either a collision repair technician or an automotive technician to locate the cause.

Free play inside a steering rack is abnormal, and is easily diagnosed. If you are turning the steering wheel and the tie rods are not moving, the damage is internal and the rack should be replaced. Few insurance companies will refuse to replace a steering rack with internal damage, because if they do so at that point they assume liability for any future accident related to rack failure. MAke sure the insurance adjuster is made aware of your complaint.

I hope this is helpful; if so, please click my accept button! thanks!