Three problems related to steering column have been reported for the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Key stuck in on position will not allow engine to be turned off in either park or neutral. Will turn towards start. Car will drive but unable to turn car off unless power is unplugged from steering column. Was at work with no way to turn car off had to leave running till power was disconnected. Upon research found that this was a common issue reported for the 97-98 chevy Lumina believe that this should be a safety recall.
Lumina becomes difficult to steer when making left turns or even slight left turns, such as from an access ramp onto the freeway. Steering locks up, and vehicle must be brought to a stop until steering unlocks, and I can complete the turn. Steering has locked up at speeds as low as 15 mph and as high as 45 mph.
While driving at 40 mph the steering column broke, dealer replaced the power steering column.