The design of the MAGNASTEER power rack and pinion assembly is the same for a non-MAGNASTEER except for valve machining differences. Steering wheel movement transfers to the pinion. The pinion moves the rack left or right by meshing pinion and rack teeth. The force transmits through the tie rod ends and steering knuckles to turn the wheels.

The power rack and pinion steering system has a rotary control valve. The rotary control valve directs hydraulic fluid from the power steering pump to one of the two sides of the rack piston. The piston attaches to the rack. The attached piston uses hydraulic pressure to move the rack left or right. The rotary control valve regulates the amount of effort by responding to the driver's torque input.

Manual control is maintained when hydraulic assist is not available. More steering effort is required with manual control.