Hydraulic Power Assist Steering System Problems of GMC Jimmy

The 1997 GMC Jimmy just shuts off. This occurs at no special times and with no identifiable circumstances preceding the shutdown. The engine and all control systems simply stop. This has happened numerous times and there is no ryhme nor reason for the failure. It has happened many times in a single evening and then gone months before recurring. Computer diagnoses, no codes found by mechanic. Since it has always failed while the vehicle was in motion, usually at highway speeds, controlling the vehicle becomes a real concern. Loss of power steering can easily cause a loss of control and a serious accident. The Jimmy always restarts easily after ten seconds or so. Of course at 70-75 miles per hours that can seem like a very long time indeed.

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When applying abs brakes when on a icy surface, power steering locks up until you come to a full stop. Also air bag did not deploy upon direct frontal impact at 30 mph into slate mountain. When changing a tire, jack slipped out of the locked position and dropped the vehicle.

This vehicle has been a nightmare. . . Unfortunately it was a spur of the moment purchase. Although used, with only 39,000 miles, I thought I would be ok since it had an extended warranty till 72,000. I have replaced both upper and lower ball joints, idler arm, alternator, belt tensioner, ignition switch, 4wd sensors, gas gauge sensor, left rear axle shaft and both rear axle bearings. At least these were all covered under the warranty, but not the rental cars for all the time the truck spent in the shop. Now the vehicle has 90,000 miles and the dealership is telling me that the recall for the ball joints does not pertain to my truck (the VIN # is not included), the transmission dipstick is rusted (I've seen several complaints but no recall), my accelerator pedal sticks severely (also numerous complaints), and I've already replaced (out of pocket cost of $1700) a complete rear end. I owe more than this vehicle is worth. . . But will need to get rid of it soon because I do not feel safe driving my son around in it. Many of these problems could have caused a serious accident. . .

No summary listed for above vehicle.

During a repair of a main seal leak, mechanic removed the transfer case and did not put all the parts back together, a short while later, consumer noticed a strong fuel smell and after examination found that an unsecured fuel line had vibrated against the protruding edge of a body support brace causing it to sever and leak, dealer found 2 support brackets missing and 2 large steel rods missing that are designed to assist in preventing the transfer from cracking during extreme 4-wheel conditions, if mechanic would have put all parts together this incident would not have occurred, consumer is requesting reimbursement for rental car costs and costs of repairs. Vehicle also experienced a power steering leak.

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Power steering performance is poor, vehicle wanders on straight road at speeds below 70 mph, unable to rectify.

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