1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee: loss of power steering

Filed Jun 28, 2005 · Brakes, Steering · 128,475 miles · CA

Dt consumer stated while driving there was a loud noise, then 2 bolts broke from the steering column, this caused loss of steering. The vehicle was towed, the mechanic stated there was also another bolt located on the inside of the steering column that broke as well. Two jeep dealers said they had never heard of this happening before. *jb both cv boots are broken and the brakes had to be repaired. *tt

Filed Aug 30, 2004 · Steering · 120,000 miles · IN

While driving in reverse consumer lost steering control. Vehicle was towed to a repair shop and the mechanic determined that the problem was caused by the main bolts shearing off from the steering gear box.

Filed Jun 3, 2004 · Steering · 115,000 miles · NC

Upon starting the vehicle, I immediately heard a bang followed by loud clanging under the hood. I began backing out of my garage and noticed I had no power steering. At this point I estimated that the belt had broken and shut down the engine. On examining under the hood the power steering pump pulley was visibly out of alignment and the belt was wrapped around the fan. Closer examination revealed that the power steering pump bracket was broken into three pieces. I also have one bolt sheered off with the stud still stuck in the cylinder head. I have acquired a replacement part but the necessary replacement bolt was out of stock. Before repairs can proceed, I will need to drill the existing bolt out, possibly having to remove the cylinder head assy to gain the proper access. Although no injuries resulted, the car is not drivable in this condition and the failure has caused my family major inconvenience. Had this happened at a different time the consequences could have been much more severe.

Filed Sep 6, 2003 · Steering · 135,000 miles · NH

Power steering bracket broke off from engine block, causing loss of steering ability and drive belts to disengage from engine.

Filed Feb 7, 2002 · Electrical · TX

The ECM causes intermittent power loss including loss of power steering and power brakes. This occurs at stops, turns, and normal highway speeds. The dealer service department reports that it is the ECM because "when they rap on it with a wrench during idling, is causes the car to stall." the ECM does not record a failure.

Filed Jan 16, 2002 · Steering · WA

Complete sudden loss of steering without any warning symptoms even at 1 MPH is a safety defect. It could have as easily happened from hitting a pothole at 70 MPH, killing me and causing great damage. I have the car serviced regualrly at the dealer since

Filed May 23, 2001 · Steering, Suspension · OR

Consumer was traveling about 20mph on a side street and heard a metal noise. Then, power steering went out. Dealership was aware of problem.*ak consumer was unable to steer, consumre was told by dealer that this type of vehicle where the brackets bolts fall out are common.

Filed Mar 8, 2001 · Engine, Steering · IN

Consumer was traveling about 55-60mph with her 4 year old child and lost power steering and cooling fan. Consumer had to use all weight to get vehicle off highway. Problem was idler pulley broke. Mechanic called it alternator bracket idler part #53008443. Chrylser didn't seem to be concerned, only said they couldn't cover it, out of warranty. *ak

Filed Jan 15, 2001 · Steering · CA

Bolts that hold gear box to unibody frame sheared in half while parking with a resulting total loss of steering control.

Filed Jul 18, 2000 · Steering · CA

While driving at highway speeds vehicle had fatigue failure on the steering drive pulley, resulting in loss of steering.

Filed Sep 2, 1999 · Steering · GA

Power steering failed due to power steering pump bracket breaking. Dealer replaced the pump bracket. Power steering pump not covered under warranty.

Filed Aug 30, 1999 · Steering · NY

Driving on hghiway at approximately 55mph bracket that holds the power steering pump broke, causing vehicle to lose steering.