Found this info very interesting.
With EP3 steering rack mainly everything is OK, there are 2 causes for creaking rack problem and knocking:
1) Yes, one of the issue is lack of grease! Racks are poorly lubricated and after a couple of years, the grease wears out and got dry!
2) Second cause: The weakest point in the rack is SLIDER, it’s made from some kind of plastic and wear out comparatively quick!
Simply buy new Slider and replace it! Lubricate all inner parts and drive happy!
SLIDER part Nr.: 53605-S5A-003
Slider in USA cost ~20$ :mrgreen:
Some pics of slider and rack