The power steering hose (part number # 4764-347a / 0777c/ 25517 df 3251 3/8" id # 03067f1) is located behind the cylinder block and runs along the top of it from the pump( located on the left side of the vehicle's motor) to the right side of the engine down to the rack & pinion. Because of the location of the hose when it rupturs/leaks onto the exhust pipe/manifold and ignites the power steering fluid starting a fire. This should be corrected so that it is placed lower or away from the exhust pipe/maifold.
1997 Dodge Stratus steering complaints
Page 2 of 2: complaints 11 to 21 of 21, newest first, as owners wrote them.
Both the right and left side lower control arm and ball joint assemblies had to be replaced. This problem was addressed by recall #750. The repair work was performed at the dealer and paid for before consumer was advised of the recall. I have attempted to obtain reimbursement for the $633.00 cost and the $49.95 plus 8% sales tax with no luck. Request was denied for the reason that "although the recalled parts failed they didn't fail for the recall reason." consumer was also not given the old parts for an independent inspection. *ak daimler chrysler denied reimbursement stating that this case fell into general maintenance.
There was a noise when making turns in both directions. Vehicle taken to repair shop. Tie rod: inner was cracked, and had to be replaced.
Power steering went out (65 MPH on curve hose came off, head gasket replaced, steering gear replaced, new rack was installed, replaced up-strem oxgen sensor, power steering leak, dealer could not find leak.
Turn light switch failed and caused control panel to be inoperable, signal lights inoperable, and HVAC inoperable.
Trunk leaks.
Steering wheel has problems with aiming. When driving there is a lot of play in the steering.
Engine head gasket blew out. Also, loud knocking in front left side of wheel due to rack pinon failure. Dealer notified, and informed consumer that repairs will be made at consumer's expense.
The moving steering shaft between the steering wheel and floor of the passenger compartment is exposed. A clamp on the steering shaft caught the floor mat and made it almost impossible to steer the car. I talked to the dealer and was told all stratus are made this way. The steering shaft needs a shield. If chrysler doesn't fix this, I may sell the car. I have had numerous other problems, including timing belts/iginition key/ head rests/body, electric mirrors,etc.. This may be the last straw. I am a mechanical engineer with 20 years experience and I have worked on cars since grade school. A design flaw like this borders on criminal!!! If there is an accident caused by this design, I would be glad to testify. It would be an open and shut case!!! I would appreciate a reply to this message if possible.
The power steering fluid was contaminated which caused loss of power steering and may have resulted in an accident. Please provide further information.
Vehicle experiencing service bulletin problem with the high pressure power steering line causing noise.
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