Do I need to spend over $1600 to get my rack and pinion replaced? 2008 Kia Optima EV V6 184k miles automatic transmission FWD
Some context: I made a questionable decision to buy a 2008 Kia Optima EX V6 automatic FWD with 184k miles because it was cheap but I knew it would take some work. There are ~$2000 of other repairs that I knew would be necessary and I budgeted for (tires, brakes, various fluid flushes, etc. Nothing underhood or underbelly besides some play in the front balljoints which I am replacing), but they also noted that the rack and pinion are leaking and "will need attention soon" with this image provided. They quoted me just over $1,600 for a replacement which I would really like to avoid if possible. I don't know much about cars - it looks to me like there is clearly some leakage but I have no frame of reference for how bad this is.
If it matters; I won't be driving a lot, primarily daily commuting within the city. There are no noticeable steering issues. Can I get away with just ignoring this? Maybe some Lucas stop leak and just topping off the power steering fluid? I don't care about long term preservation for this car as its an old beater, but I really hope this car will last me at least the next 2 years as which point I will have finished my schooling and will have a salary.
Is there a straightforward answer here? Any questions I should ask that I wouldn't think of with my limited knowledge? Any help is appreciated thank you.