The contact owns a 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. The steering column fell in the contact's lap when she placed the key in the ignition. Prior to the failure, she noticed that the column felt loose. She was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer. Two weeks later, before she arrived at the dealer, the steering column fell completely off. The dealer stated that the failure was caused by normal wear and tear and it seemed as if someone was pulling on the steering wheel. The vehicle has since been repaired. Through online research, she found numerous complaints regarding the steering column and she feels that it is a manufacturer defect. The current mileage was 104,624 and the failure mileage was unknown. Updated 12/12/2007 updated 12/12/07

- Louisville, KY, USA

My steering column was slightly loose, but a mechanic assured me there no problem. About 2 weeks later, the entire steering column fell into my lap as I attempted to insert the key into the ignition. I was able to push the column back into place and get the car across the street to a Mitsubishi dealership who said the car was out of warranty and had too many miles. I do not believe that this is a warranty issue and told the person at the dealership my belief. I also advised him that I had had cars that were totaled out in accidents and the steering mechanism never fell out. In addition, I had one car that I put close to 200,000 miles on it, but there was no problem with the steering wheel and column falling out. I contacted Mitsubishi and got the same response regarding wear and tear and the out or warranty situation.

- Louisville, KY, USA

While driving steering wheel became loose, and vehicle wobbled from four to six inches to either side. This happened three times since owning vehicle. Dealer and the manufacturer have been informed.

- Lake Havasu City, AZ, USA