Two problems related to hydraulic power assist steering system have been reported for the 1997 Toyota Avalon. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Seems I'm also the victim of a common 1997 Avalon problem. The power steering pump/rack were leaking and needed to be replaced. In reviewing all of the NHTSA complaints about this problem, it seems a recall should have occurred for this all too common (and expensive) problem.
Leak in power steering mechanism causing sudden loss of power steering control,I. E. Steering becomes very difficult.