Eight problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While exiting off highway steering would not turn left. While driving with out prior warning, the steering broke where the steering column was attached to the rack and pinion.
Steering wheel locked while making a left due to rack and pinion failure.
Steering becomes inoperable momentarily in wet driving conditions at slow speed. Occasionally, when turning while driving in wet conditions a squeal sound such as belts slipping can be heard. Steering becomes difficult when turning from a complete stop. Dealer was advised on two occasions. According to the dealer steering is working and belts are properly adjusted. The most recent incident happened in wet weather while pulling into a street from a driveway. Fortunately no traffic was coming and the driver was able to put the transmission in reverse and return to the driveway. Immediately after the incident, steering appeared to work.
Rack pinion steering broke, causing steering wheel to lock up, and no steering ability at all, which may cause an accident.
While driving and without warning rack and pinion failed, causing the power steering assist to lock up. Owner had to turn vehicle off in order to rotate steering wheel.
The rack and pinon steering is loose and needs to be tightened. The steering could have been lost unexpectedly in the van.
The consumer received a recall letter regarding the rack and pinion, an appointment was made, however the day before the appointment, consumer received a call from the dealer who stated they had no tools to correct the problem.
The vehicle was taken to the shop for recall repairs to the rack and pinion bearing and the power steering. This recall required that the air bags,horn and cruise control be reset. The dealer refused to do this because it was not part of the recall.