Is it common to have the rack and pinion replaced on these?

What is your question?

My 2004 Malibu Maxx has only 72,000 miles on it and I have had to have the rack and pinion replaced on it because my steering went out on it. Previous to it going out for about a week or so I would hear creaking noises when I turned the wheel. The mechanic I took it to said the rack and pinion was all chewed up. That was less than a month ago and now my car is making the same creaking/clunking noise when I turn the wheel. I'm afraid it is going to go out again. I know there is a recall for the power steering, which there are no parts for, but this is more serious than that.