Steering is making a whining sound and started around 65,000 miles. I've owned three chrysler vans and always seem to have a problem that many other people have and wonder why chrysler doesn't recall that item or correct that problem with newer models. I think I've finally learned my lesson. No more chryslers.
2003 Chrysler Town and Country: whining or grinding noise
6 of the 245 complaints about the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country describe whining or grinding noise.
- owner complaints
- 6
- of this car's complaints
- 2%
- typical mileage
- 65,000
- recalls
- 0
Whining or grinding noise by model year
What owners say
At approx 58000 miles the steering system began to make a whining noise. Power steering fluid levels were at proper levels but it sounded like a dry pump. Then the power steering became erratic. Turning easy then part way through the turn it became very difficult and then without warning easy again. Very dangerous. Eventually the rack had completely failed.
At low out-side temperature the power steering fails to work properly. When the vehicle is idle and a turn is about to occur, a whining noise is noted and the steering wheel does not respond unless the engine is accelerated, occasionally losing control at turning. This event occurs only in wintertime when temperature drops below 70 degree f and when the vehicle is cold. As out-side temperature increase (about 80 degree f) whining noise goes away and the power steering works perfectly. This is not notice during any other season time. Only at winter time when the out-side temperature drops below 70 degree f and as temperature keeps dropping, it becomes worse. The power fluid is changed periodically to alleviate the whining and the power steering has been replaced about three times. This has been happening since 12/2006.
About 6 months ago I started hearing a whine/groan when making sharp turns. It was originally decided that I need a new power steering pump. I took my vehicle in while getting my tires changed it was then switched to I needed a new power steering rack. Every garage told me something different. 1500 dollars later I am with a new power steering pump, reservoir, rack, cooler hose, and fin packed hose and still the whine and shudder and groan while making sharp turns or into parking spaces. I am in tears and feel helpless with this vehicle. It's in gorgeous condition, however totally unaware of if I want it anymore to drive my children around in due to safety concerns. After spending 20k + on a vehicle, where is the customer service and satisfaction??
I bought a 2003 town & country in may '06. In june of '06 I would here a whining noise when I turned the steering wheel. It seems to be a lot worse when it is cold outside. I took the vehicle to the dealership and they advised me that my steering column was bad and the steering pump needed to be replaced. They said that is was going to be over $1100.00. I did not even have the van for a month yet and they were not even willing to fix it. So we are dealing with the problem but the more we drive it the noise continues to get worse. We have not had any help from the dealership and I have a feeling that they knew that part was bad when they sold us that vehicle because having it for less than month I'm sure that I didn't put much wear and tear on it.
Power steering pump has been replaced 2 times and fluid has been replaced 3 times.cooler lines for pump have been replaced.rack & pinion has been replaced. Problem still there.power steering makes loud whining and moaning noise.*ak all this over 2 months 21193-23700 miles.
Service bulletins that may apply
- Powertrain control module initialization
- Automatic transmission diagnostic teardown procedure
- Powertrain control module initialization
- Delayed or temporary loss of transmission engagement after initial start up on various models including...
- Transmission harsh 4-3 downshift
- Delayed or temporary loss of transmission engagement after initial start up on various models including...
- Transmission harsh 4-3 downshift on various models including the 2004 pacifica, sebring, intrepid and 2003...
- Transmission transfer gear whine sound
Related recalls
No recalls on record for this model year.
Questions about the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country whining noise
Is whining or grinding noise a common problem on the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country?
6 of 245 owner complaints about the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country (2%) mention whining or grinding noise. The model year with the most reports is 2006.
Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country?
There are 0 recalls and 9 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.
Other symptoms on the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country
Stalling 21Headlights 17Steering noise 11Airbag light 10Loss of power 9Grinding brakes 8Fire or smoke 8No deployment 7Wipers 7Check engine light 6Power steering loss 6Won't start 6Knocking 5Shudder 5
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