This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
On rainy days when making sharp left turn, the 97 Dodge Caravan (3.0 V6) looses power steering and goes out of control. The serpentine drive belt slipped out of the tensioner pulley causing the power steering loss leading to this hazardous condition while driving in addition to the road being wet and slippery. There is a potential for a crash or deadly accident if this condition happens. This condition happened four times in the past two months.
While driving over water puddles consumer noticed the serpentine belt froze, causing steering wheel to lock up. The power steering had become inoperative, the gears would slip when shifted, the water pump leaked, the belt tensioner fell apart, the consumer would lose the steering when driving through a puddle of water, the A/C did not blow cool air due to a leaking evaporator, and the belt tensioner would stick and make noises when driving through water.
Consumer states power steering turns hard to left and when backing up. Dealer found power steering gear binding and replaced power steering gear assembly.
Heard a click when turning wheel to the right. Then, later on steering wheel would not turn at all. Took vehicle to dealership, they sad it might be the rack and pinon or power steering that was causing the problem.
- Ellensburgh, WA, USA
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Electrical component failures have resulted in five visits, four repairs - counting this current incident. Warranty issues have prevented immediate repair, even though we hold an extended gold warranty. Dealer claims clockspring involvement - customer claims operation perfect without for several months. Customer left clockspring unrepaired due to warranty issue, since, a possible recall is under review. Customer refuses payment for repair. Dodge is unresponsive. Dealer is unresponsive. Lawsuit will be pursued.
While driving over water puddles or if water accumulates underneath of the vehicle, the power steering becomes inoperative which may result an accident. Dealer said that's the way the vehicle was made and supposed to do.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Ohiladelphia, PA, USA