Four problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 1999 Oldsmobile Alero. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Power windows have both went out had to replace the motor for that, 2 times now the rack and pinion has came out and 2 times I have had to replace altenator had to replace overflow resorvoir I dont find this to be a reliable or safe car to be in. I bought it used so who knows what has happened before I got it I forgot to mention my part-time signal lights they work when they want to and I had to replace air conditioning compresser I have only had car 5 yrs myself and its so not worth the money I have put into it the dates vary but the first was in 2004 and the last was 2009.
Noticed play and looseness in steering had it check out by mechanic and found it was my rack and pinion I am replacing it with another used part.
While driving at any speed consumer heard a squealing sound coming from the steering column. Consumer added power steering fluid, that stopped the noise. Also, consumer heard a clanking sound when right turns were made. Vehicle was taken to the dealer, who found that rack and pinion needed to be replaced.
Rackn pinion failed.