Six problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 1996 Mercury Sable. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When making a sharp right turn vehicle made a groaning noise. Vehicle was taken to dealership. Dealer determined the problem was related to rack and pinion steering. Rack and pinion steering has been replaced four times. Also, power steering pump has been replaced twice, along with the pressure and return hoses. Vehicle is still undriveable. Please provide any further information.
Rack and pinion steering was replaced under warranty in Feb 2000. Currently, it needs to be replaced again. Consumer states dealership replaced the rack and pinion the first time, and now that it needs to be replaced again they are refusing, consumer was informed by dealership that things just happen.
Dealership replaced the defective rack and pinion assembly with another defective unit resulting in vehicle fire due to leakage of fluid.
Rack and pinion failed, was replaced and the replacement failed three months later.
When turning the steering wheel, the steering wheel gets stiff and makes it diffacult to steer. Please describe.
Power steering gear and the return line is leaking steering fluid. The dealer has been notified. Rack & pinion assembly (original) is defective.