Three problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While traveling 10-15mph on highway and without prior warning, consumer was turning left approching her driveway and the steering wheel became hard to turn. Dealership was aware of problem. Consumer states that the rack and pinion part of the steering unit failed. Ford motor company repaired the problem.
While driving about any mph could lose control of vehicle due to steering. Took vehicle to dealer, and they found out that rack and pinion was leaking oil and had to be replaced.
Was driving to georgia & steering was not handling properly. Took to dealer in GA & vehicle placed on machine. Nothing was found. Moved to nc 1 1/2 yr later & had regular maintenance done. Also had steering checked again due to same problem. Nothing found again. Vehicle went for inspection & failed due to problem with steering. Took to local mechanic & indication was rack & pinion was messing up. Took back to dealership & mechanic indicated a problem with the rack & pinion & it needed to be repaired or replaced.