Six problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 1997 Buick Park Avenue. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I have a 1997 Buick Park Avenue, when I turn to the right only even the slightest bit I hear a grinding sound coming from the front suspension area. I had the wheel bearings checked and replaced the driver side bearing and still had the same noise. I do not know if its part of the steering or maybe the pilot bearing if it has one on the side of the transmission. Maybe the rack pinion system. I don't really know what to do to fix it. Please help. . . ?.
The consumer complained about the rack and pinion steering problem which was being recalled by the manufacturer. The consumer contacted the manufacturer, but because of the VIN consumer was denied any assistance. The problem was noticed after the vehicle was first purchased. There was a stiffens when turning left and sometimes when the vehicle was driven at 50 mph or more, getting off at an off ramp, the steering would loosen then go back to normal.
Hard steering turning right at low speeds. Item repaired 1/14/2004 at dealer at a cost to me of $1351. 18. Repair invoice states " internal failure of steering gear diagnosed and replaced steering gear. " auto is 1997 Buick park Ave ultra with 32000 miles.
I own a 1997 park Ave ultra with several recall repair issues the following were addressed by gm but not properly repaired: (faulty) abs system (with campaign code sticker) replaced abs system cuts out randomly causing changes in stopping distance (in severe braking situations the abs system has cut out on me getting off of the highway causing me to have to apply excessive pressure to the brakes just to come to a normal stop) front passenger seat belt replacement(no campaign sticker) middle rear seat belt anchor was never fixed or torqued to proper specified standards while in for repairs let alone addressed at all rack and pinion has multiple issues some due to age and miles but regardless the entire assembly is loose and bearings are shot the faulty recall repairs on my vehicle don't instill trust in gm's ability to repair my vehicle a second time.
Item 1. Returning home, play developed in the steering wheel. With the car parked in driveway, during investigation , the steering wheel totally disconnected from the steering rack, so the car was no longer steerable. Dealer said the steering wheel shaft had separated from the rack input, but could not understand how this could happen. Rack assembly had been replaced 03/28/97, 2101 miles beause of oil leaks. Item 2. Taking car home from dealer after engine oil leak repair, there was much play, 1/3 turn, in steering wheel. Dealer diagnosed problem as broken mounting ear on steering rack and pinion, requiring replacement of rack assembly. Rack assemble had been replaced 03/28/97, 2101 miles due to oil leaks.
Rack and pinion steering is binding due to defective parts.