1998 Dodge Durango: clunking or noise when steering

Filed Mar 10, 2005 · Steering · 55,000 miles · AR

There are popping and clicking sounds coming from my steering column and there is too much play in the steering. I brought it to my local dealer and they said it needed to be replaced. With only 55,000 miles on my vehicle chrysler said they would not replace the steering column. The steering shouldn't have these problems with such low mileage. There is no preventative maintenance available for steering so I don't see how this problem could have been avoided. I will continue to pressure chrysler to do the right thing, which is to take care of their customers and the defective parts on the vehicles they've sold.

Filed Feb 10, 2005 · Steering, Suspension · 68,202 miles · ID

Events leading up to failure: 1.) noise eminating from the front of the vehicle ? Clunking, squeaking; 2.) loose steering associated with clunking; .) wandering at speed. *ak failure and consequences: 1.) prior to complete failure the vehicle was diagnosed by a local dealer as worn lower ball joints, right inner tie rod end, and sway bar bushings 2.) possible consequences of not determining the problem prior to failure ? Unsafe operation or life threatening accident due to steering failure correction: 1.) replaced lower both lower ball joints, sway bar bushings, and the right inner tie rod end ($777.78 parts and labor) in light of recent recalls regarding ball joints of 2000-2003 dodge dakotas and durangos, we believe investigation into earlier models is warranted. Extremely similar symptoms are evident on the earlier models prior to 2000 leading us to believe the problem existed prior to the 2000 model year. Given this vehicle was rarely placed in extreme conditions (off-road maneuvers, etc.), never in an accident, and with the majority of the time spent on paved roads, failure of ball joints and other suspension components in the 50,000 to 60,000 mile range is premature. We request an investigation into including 1998-1999 dodge durangos into the formal ball joint recall as detailed for the 2000-2003 models.

Filed Nov 23, 2004 · Suspension · 81,500 miles · CA

Front end steering noises, no failure, dealer diagnosed upper ball joints extremely worn, lower joints loose. Needs full replacement of all ball joints.

Filed May 21, 2004 · Brakes, Steering · ID

I purchased my durango in 1998, I have had it in to the dealer because of steering column noise, was told nothing was wrong with it. My front right brake squeals and I get grease on my wheels, had replaced, still makes the noise. My fuel strap was replaced in a previous recall. Now I am going to have to have the ball joints redone, they are separating. Was told vehicle is unsafe to drive, wheel will fall off. I would like to know why there has been no recalls on this problem. We also have a friend that has a 2000 that needs to replace his because of the same situation. Will there be a recall?

Filed Apr 8, 2004 · Steering · SC

While driving a very loud clicking and popping sound was coming from the front end when making left or right turns. Took vehicle to the dealer. Dealer stated steering column was causing the popping and clicking noise. *ak

Filed Sep 8, 2003 · Steering, Suspension · 45,000 miles · IN

Nar 9-8-03. Excessive movement in steering. Excessive amount of noise in suspension front ball joints. Dealer was notified

Filed Sep 17, 2001 · Brakes, Steering · MA

This vehicle has had major component breakdowns since purchase. Initially, immediately after purchase there was a clicking sound in the steering column. The dealer indicated that there was a tsb and replaced steering column. The second problem occurred in february 2000, some three months after purchase. We began to notice a significant pulsing in the brake pedal. The dealer attributed this to ABS brakes. Several months later when the pulsing was significantly greater and the braking was being affected, an independent shop reviewed the brakes and indicated that the rotors were severely warped and causing the pulsing sensation. This was repaired out of pocket. In february, 2001 the temperature began fluctuating, spiking higher temperatures causing the check gauge light to illuminate. It would then reset. Hanover dodge, a different dealer indicated that the thermostat housing seal was leaking and replaced the thermostat and gasket. This was paid out of pocket. Approximately ten days later, the radiator had a major failure requiring replacement. This was paid out of pocket in the amount of $610.33. In may, 2001we were alerted to a problem involving the front end. In bringing the vehicle to the dealer, a leak was noticed from the transmission cooler and also and more critically it was determined that the left upper ball joint required replacement as well as the inner tie rods. These repairs were also paid out of pocket in the amount of $923.45. The latest issue arose several weeks ago when a howling sound was noticed coming from the rear of the vehicle. Through research and independent evaluation it has been determined that the rear differential has a design defect whereby the ring and pinion cannot handle the load of the vehicle. I have noted several of the same complaints being made to your organization in this database. We believe that the vehicle we have is defective. Each problem has involved a major component or system.

Filed Sep 13, 2001 · Steering · NC

While traveling noticed steering wheel making a poping noise. Dealer was contacted, and replaced steering column and coupling. Please provide further information.