Three problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 1997 Toyota Camry. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
There was a problem with the rack and pinion. While driving the consumer heard a loud noise, viewed smoke coming from the engine area, and immediately the engine died. The dealer was contacted and stated that a rod had blown a hole through the engine block. Also, the turn signal malfunctioned. Scc dealer recommended engine block be replaced. Timing and drive belts replaced.
Car : 97 Toyota Camry le 4 cylinder three major problems 1) blue smoke at cold-starting (mileage: 87 miles -Aug. 2001) engine gave off blue smoke from the exhaust when cold-starting in the morning. After replacing valve stem seals (paid around $1000 to a Toyota dealer for the repair), the problem was solved. 2) power steering rack & pinion leaking (mileage: 87kmiles -Aug. 2001) power steering rack & pinion leaked and a mechanic replaced it with a new one. 3) egr vsv failure (mileage: 100 kmiles -oct. 2004) check engine light came on. Obd ii scanner says "insufficient egr flow. " a mechanic replaced egr vsv and the problem was solved. 4) front strut mounts failure ((mileage: 87 kmiles -Aug. 2001) both front strut mounts made noise. After a Toyota dealer replaced it, the problem was solved.
Rack and pinion steering was leaking. Noticed problem when vehicle was parked. Took to mechanic, and was informed that needed the entire rack and pinion steering system replaced.