Five problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 2001 Chrysler Pt Cruiser. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Chrysler Pt Cruiser based on all problems reported for the 2001 Pt Cruiser.
While driving 25 mph the power steering failed without warning. The driver was able to maintain control and pulled off the road. The dealer states the rack and pinion, the power steering pump and hoses needed to be replaced. The cause has yet to be determined. Please provide additional information.
Consumer states: 1st time heard a crushing noise when he would turn the wheel. The dealer replaced the steering column, then in July 2003 heard a noise sound like rubber on rubber. The steering rack and pinion assembly was replaced. In July 2004 the noise was back and the steering rack and pinion was replaced again. Now, the noise is back and they are going to replace the rack and pinion again.
When a moderate left turn was made, there was a rubbing noise heard. Later, as the vehicle made another left turn, there was a loud pop/bang heard, and the vehicle suddenly veered sharply into a hard left turn. The vehicle hit a concrete base. A front end specialist stated that the steering rack and pinion had broken. Scc . See 10014911 for more details.
While traveling 5 mph consumer noticed that when making a turn vehicle did not respond to turning, vehicle continued to travel straight. Dealership serviced vehicle, and noticed rack and pinion needed to be replaced.
When the consumer attempted to make a left turn, the vehicle suddenly veered into a hard left turn, the driver loss control of the vehicle and hit a concrete base of a light pole. There was oil on the ground near the collision. A front end suspension specialist indicated the rack and pinion broke, which caused loss of control/crash. Consumer felt this was a safety issue which should be investigated further. If it would be decided by someone from NHTSA to investigate the incident further, it should be done quickly since the vehicle has been released by the farmers texas county mutual insurance company for auction/sale. By central texas salvage pool at 721 north general bruce drive, temple, texas 76501, contact 254-777-111. Owner has asked insurance company to put a temporary hold on sale of vehicle. Insurance adjuster has agreed to a two week hold until February 7, 2003. Unless there was further action by NHTSA or Chrysler to indicate a further investigation for security reasons. This information should be added to odi id 770890. See 10009888 for vehicle owner's information.