One problem related to steering rack has been reported for the 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When pulling to the left out of a parking place I noticed that the steering wheel was becoming increasingly difficult to turn. Eventually the wheel wouldn't turn even with force. While trying to turn the wheel a "squooshing" noise was heard. After a few moments the steering wheel did turn, but with extreme difficulty, and I immediately went straight home (approximately 14 miles). During that time I did not make any abrupt turns and was very cautious driving only 45 mph at the maximum. Upon reaching home I contacted the local gm dealership for service, since the car was unsafe to be driven any major distance. After the car was inspected I was told the rack and pinion was defective and needed to be replaced in order for the car to be operable. I don't feel that this item should have failed at 6 years since the car has been regularly and properly maintained. I also feel that this repair should be fully reimbursed by the manufacturer since this is a safety issue.