Recalls
| Campaign | Manufacturer | Manufacturing date | Type | # of units affected | Date Owner notified Mfg | Recall Initiated by | Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products | Report Recieved Date | Record Creation Date | Regulation Part Number | FMVSS Number | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS | ||||||||||||||||
| 04V386000 | DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION | from 10/01/2001 to 08/01/2003 | V (Vehicle) | 681000 | 09/27/2004 | ODI | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 08/05/2004 | 08/11/2004 | |||||||
| Defect Summary | On certain minivans equipped with 3.3 or 3.8l v-6 engine, the upper power steering cooler hose may split and cause a fluid leak. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | Power steering fluid leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in an under hood fire. | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Dealers will replace the upper power steering cooler hose. this recall began on september 27, 2004. owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | Recall no. d37.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration | |||||||||||||||
Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| STEERING | |||||
| 1900805 | 11/02/2005 | 1900805A | 10017651 | Revised power steering system bleeding procedures. *sc | 11/14/2005 |
| 1900403 | 08/04/2005 | 1900605 | 10003546 | Steering shudder. *tt | 10/23/2003 |
| 1900303 | 08/29/2003 | 1900801 | 10003545 | Pop/tick sound in steering wheel area. *tt | 10/23/2003 |
| 1900103 | 05/25/2003 | 1900504 | 10001106 | Pop/tick sound in steering wheel area. *tt *mj | 04/14/2003 |
| 1900602 | 05/20/2002 | 1901001 | 634092 | Subject regarding steering shudder. *slc | 09/27/2002 |
| 1901001 | 12/14/2001 | 628332 | Experiencing a shudder (vibration) felt inside the vehicle while turning the steering wheel. *tt | 03/07/2002 | |
| STEERING - COLUMN | |||||
| 1900504 | 10/25/2004 | 1900504A | 10007928 | Pop/trick/creak sound in steering column. *mj *eh | 07/15/2004 |
| 1900603 | 09/26/2003 | 10003991 | Knocking sound from lower steering column. *tt | 11/10/2003 | |
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS | |||||
| C20 | 06/01/2003 | 10002055 | Power steering fluid cooler hoses may split and cause a loss of power assist - customer satisfaction notification no. c20. *tt | 08/12/2003 | |
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - POWER STEERING FLUID | |||||
| 1900701 | 08/03/2001 | 623172 | Information on new power steering fluid.*slc | 10/26/2001 | |
| STEERING - WHEEL AND HANDLE BAR | |||||
| 1900801 | 11/23/2001 | 628194 | Experiencing a pop/tick sound heard coming from the steering wheel area while the vehicle is in motion. *tt | 03/06/2002 | |
Investigations
| NHTSA ID | Manufacturer | Date open | Date close | Subject | Recall campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS | ||||||
| PE03012 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 04/09/2003 | 05/29/2003 | POWER STEERING HOSE FAILURE | 04V386000 | |
| Please see attached report. | ||||||
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - POWER STEERING FLUID | ||||||
| PE03012 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 04/09/2003 | 05/29/2003 | POWER STEERING HOSE FAILURE | 04V386000 | |
| Please see attached report. | ||||||
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - PUMP | ||||||
| PE03012 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 04/09/2003 | 05/29/2003 | POWER STEERING HOSE FAILURE | 04V386000 | |
| Please see attached report. | ||||||
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM | ||||||
| PE03012 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 04/09/2003 | 05/29/2003 | POWER STEERING HOSE FAILURE | 04V386000 | |
| Please see attached report. | ||||||
| STEERING - LINKAGES - DRAG - POWER ASSIST SYSTEM | ||||||
| PE03012 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 04/09/2003 | 05/29/2003 | POWER STEERING HOSE FAILURE | 04V386000 | |
| Please see attached report. | ||||||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| STEERING | |||
| 01/02/2012 | 63893 | 1 | |
| January 2nd 2012 replaced hose fluid and clamps by an ase certified mechanic. van was leaking power steering fluid on the engine and smoking. mileage 63,893 february 21st 2012 had to add more power steering fluid april 20th 2012 van hose busted again leaving fluid all under the vehicle. we replaced the power steering pump, hose and fluid by an ase certified mechanic . mileage 66,091 today the van is doing the same thing with a whining of the power steering and sometimes stiffens up when driving and you can smell the fluid burning on the engine. seems to be worse during colder weather. there is also a popping noise in the frontend when your turning. according to chrysler my vehicle vin number is not part of the national recall #04v386000. this vehicle is an ada compliant vehicle and is used to transport our son who is permanantly in a wheel chair. i believe this van is a danger to our family and should be put on the registry of recalled vehicles for repair. *tr | |||
| 01/02/2012 | 63893 | ||
| January 2nd 2012 replaced hose fluid and clamps by an ase certified mechanic. van was leaking power steering fluid on the engine and smoking. mileage 63,893 february 21st 2012 had to add more power steering fluid april 20th 2012 van hose busted again leaving fluid all under the vehicle. we replaced the power sterring pump, hose and fluid by an ase certified mechanic . mileage 66,091 today the van is doing the same thing with a whining of the power steering and sometimes stiffens up when driving and you can smell the fluid burning on the engine. seems to be worse during colder weather. there is also a popping noise in the frontend when your turning. according to chrysler my vehicle vin number is not part of the national recall #04v386000. this vehicle is an ada complient vehicle and is used to transport our son who is permanatly in a wheel chair. i believe this van is a danger to our family and should be put on the registry of recalled vehicles for repair. | |||
| 12/13/2011 | 92840 | ||
| We noticed a noise and feeling like the power steering was binding,then went away.it came and went away, but start to do it more often.in march. when we took in for a oil change, we told them about it,but it would not do it it for the service dept. they told us to bring it back when it was doing it. we did and they and they explained the same problems and repairs that was happening.to the 2003 models. i had them do the hose repair to the sum of $218.36. the power steering repair and upper strut bearing would be a total of $962.70. i told them i would get back to them on that problem.that's when i went to this site on the advice of someone,and found out that all these problems are the same as the 2003 town and county when i went back to the dealership and asked why the charged me for the service update. which they told me about they gave me some vague stupid answer. what are my options for this steering problem. my wife and i are both on ssi., and she is disabled and we really can't afford these kind of repairs . thank you robert d hug | |||
| 10/01/2011 | 120000 | ||
| When it is raining and below 45 degrees upon starting there is a loud screeching sound the smell of burnt electricity and the power steering does not work. the van must be turned off and restarted to reengage the power steering. on 2 occaisions the steering stayed out for about 15 minutes. have taken vehicle to chyrsler/dodge/jeep dealship and they can not re inact the problem. have looked on forums and talked with other owners this is not just my issue. fear one day i will be driving and loose it. | |||
| 12/20/2010 | 147000 | ||
| Power steering fails when car is backed up and turned to the left. when pulling forward the power steering is not functioning. placing the car in neutral and revving the engine seems to correct the problem. car has 147000+ miles on it | |||
| 01/04/2009 | 111450 | 1 | |
| I bought this 2002 mini-van in january from my sister. she took meticulous care of it. so when i found my steering failing, i never thought it was an issue with the steering. i thought it was the power steering. i blew a power steering hose one day after weeks of smelling something burning. got that fixed and then found the steering column was still locking up, not letting me turn the car, running over the curb because i could not steer it. and i can still smell something out of the ordinary, it almost smells like anti-freeze. not sure what it is. it usually happened when i first started the car and did not let it warm up for a long period of time. now it will do it when i am driving.it has happened at least 10 times in the last month. i am getting annoyed with this. i have had it to the garage 2 times now and they can not replicate what happens and now i feel like they think i am a nut case because they say, there is nothing wrong. we can not find a problem with it. i carry 5-6 children in my car at any given time and i find this to be very dangerous. *tr | |||
| 06/22/2008 | |||
| My town and country has been a lemon from day one. it has had a number of steering problems( is now undrivable as it is leaking and heat shield is down) dealer claims no recall. it has been rusting since before 30,000miles. it now has holes in it and undercarriage rusted out. chrysler has done nothing for me. power window mechanisms/motors were inoperational a year ago-at the same time. it shakes. i am afraid to drive it. paid plenty. has 68,000m. | |||
| 10/01/2007 | 38000 | 1 | |
| On my 2002 chrysler town & country with 38,000 miles, the rack and pinion began leaking in oct 2007. the internal 'falling apart' of the rack caused a clog of the steering pumps screen filter which caused a loud whining noise when turning the wheel. in april 2008, both the rack & pinion and the power steering reservoir needed to be replaced to fix the leak and the whining noise: parts - $320, labor - $900. *tr | |||
| 01/10/2008 | 95000 | 2 | |
| My power steering is beginning to go out again after having to have the hoses replaced for a 2nd time. i believe the hoses are really defective and they haven't been corrected yet! *tr | |||
| 09/11/2006 | 90000 | 1 | 05/28/2002 |
| Tl*- the contact called regarding a 2002 chrysler town & country. the contact stated he took the vehicle to a dealer for recall repairs on the power steering hoses. once the recall work was done the vehicle started vibrating and making a humming noise. the contact took the vehicle back to the dealer, and the vehicle was diagnosed as needing a new power steering rack. the contact informed the dealer that he did not have any problems with the vehicle until the recall work was performed. the dealer refused to replace the power steering rack at no charge. the failure mileage was 90000, and the current mileage was 97000.*ak the power steering hose was replaced | |||
| 12/02/2005 | 70000 | 1 | 05/01/2001 |
| I am receiving the exact same issue as a complaint i found on your site #10065581, i am being forced to pay $300+ for the same repair. if i had known about this issue in 2002 when the tsb was issue i would have fixed it then while i was under warranty. why do i have to pay for this repair, when it is a known design/manufacturing issue? i also found a investigation performed by the usdot, number pe 03-012, which looks like they were supposed to contact me. any help would be appreciated. thanks, ted make: chrysler model: town and country type: multipurpose passenger vehicle year: 2002 complaint number: 10065581 summary: i just started having this steering problem/shuddering and i did some research and found the following: 5- 'technical service bulletins' on this website. if this has been a problem since dec 2001, why was i not notified by aug 2003 to have the issue fixed (while i was still within my 36,000 mile warranty). when i called the dealer, they said i would have to pay for service/fix. my question is the following: why should i have to pay for a hose that is too short/long when it was manufactured this way. the bulletins all reflect the 'steering shudder. thank you for a response. sandra. *nm | |||
| 10/14/2004 | 40000 | 25 | 09/01/2001 |
| The air bag light continued to stay on. the consumer was concerned that the air bag will not deploy upon impact. please provide additional information. *jb sensor light comes on at any speed but mostly when turning the steering wheel. *tc | |||
| 10/12/2004 | 5 | ||
| While steering the vehicle left or right a loud noise was heard coming from the front. the vehicle vibrated uncontrollably. the mechanic was unable to duplicate the problem. *jb | |||
| 08/25/2003 | 27000 | 9 | 03/21/2002 |
| The power steering produced a grinding sound when turning to the left or the right. *ak (power steering pump) three pumps had been installed in the vehicle,the rack and pinion was replaced once, the hoses had been replaced twice and the air bag light was a problem and was repaired. *sc *jb | |||
| 04/03/2004 | 1 | 09/28/2002 | |
| I just started having this steering problem/shuddering and i did some research and found the following: 5- 'technical service bulletins' on this website. if this has been a problem since dec 2001, why was i not notified by aug 2003 to have the issue fixed (while i was still within my 36,000 mile warranty). when i called the dealer, they said i would have to pay for service/fix. my question is the following: why should i have to pay for a hose that is too short/long when it was manufactured this way. the bulletins all reflect the 'steering shudder.thank you for a response. sandra. *nm | |||
| 04/03/2003 | 25000 | 1 | |
| Steering wheel has a very loud popping and whining sound even after power steering hoses were replaced it is worse since hoses were replaced. *la | |||
| 07/01/2003 | 29137 | 5 | 04/25/2003 |
| My 2002 town & country has been in the shop 5/6 times for rear abnormal noise and excessive steering noise. *la | |||
| 10/22/2003 | 29137 | 5 | 04/25/2003 |
| Steering noise is abnormally loud. authorized service (chrysler ) has had 5 cracks at trying to fix the problem. is still under warranty and i have tried to enact the lemon law.chrysler had their final repair attempt and keep the vehicle for more repairs.*ak | |||
| 05/17/2003 | 56000 | 1 | |
| The vehicles steering fluid leaked and this caused steering problems. *nlm | |||
| 03/13/2003 | 2 | ||
| When a turn was made, there was a noise coming from the steering.*jb | |||
| 05/12/2002 | 1 | ||
| The steering failed to steer the vehicle in one direction. the consumer told by the maintenance inspector that the steering coupler and rack were not properly installed at the factory. this improper installation caused damaged to the rack and coupler. *yh | |||
| STEERING - COLUMN | |||
| 02/02/2005 | 40100 | 1 | |
| While driving at any speed consumer heard a clicking noise in the steering column. dealership will be notified. *ak | |||
| 12/18/2003 | 43000 | 4 | |
| When turning the steering wheel while driving/parking consumer heard a loud clicking/grinding noise coming from the steering column. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem.*ak | |||
| 04/15/2003 | 21000 | 4 | 10/30/2001 |
| While driving at 35 mph consumer's son heard a loud popping sound coming from the steering column. moments later, the driver lost control of the vehicle and collided with a guard rail on the driver's side. the seat belts were worn, and the air bags did not deploy however, there were no injuries . before the collision the consumer heard ticking sound coming from the steering column. also, there was a tsb concerning this problem. the vehicle was taken to the dealer once before the collision and once after the collision. vehicle was repaired by the dealer, but the problem still persisted. *ak *mr in june 2003 the consumer had a problem with a major draw on the engine with the heat or a/c running. the consumer was told that the compressor was replaced so the a/c and the heater would work properly. the consumer had explained to the service dealer that there was a problem with the steering and the mechanic suggested that this wasn't a dangerous problem. (following this service visit, the consumer's son experienced the above accident) the consumer had also found that the warranty work for the steering hadn't been completed. recall#10010414 *sc | |||
| 03/06/2002 | 20500 | 2 | 12/28/2001 |
| When attempting to turn the car, there is a clunking noise and then the steering wheel comes lose. it does not physically detach from the steering column, but it rocks freely back and forth. attempting to turn the steering wheel after this causes a grinding sound and is unstable due to the rocking motion. the failure occurred on march 6, and a chrysler dealer serviced the car on march 7 using tsb 19-008-01 as a service procedure. the exact same failure occurred the next day, after servicing. a different chrysler dealer serviced it using tsb 19-008-01 which involves inserting a shim. two different dealerships recommended replacing the steering column and chrysler would not authorize it.*jb | |||
| STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE | |||
| 12/04/2003 | 1 | ||
| When turning steering wheel towards the right it locked up, causing the consumer to lose control of the vehicle. consumer took the vehicle to the dealership to be inspected. *ak | |||
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS | |||
| 01/02/2012 | 63893 | 1 | |
| January 2nd 2012 replaced hose fluid and clamps by an ase certified mechanic. van was leaking power steering fluid on the engine and smoking. mileage 63,893 february 21st 2012 had to add more power steering fluid april 20th 2012 van hose busted again leaving fluid all under the vehicle. we replaced the power steering pump, hose and fluid by an ase certified mechanic . mileage 66,091 today the van is doing the same thing with a whining of the power steering and sometimes stiffens up when driving and you can smell the fluid burning on the engine. seems to be worse during colder weather. there is also a popping noise in the frontend when your turning. according to chrysler my vehicle vin number is not part of the national recall #04v386000. this vehicle is an ada compliant vehicle and is used to transport our son who is permanantly in a wheel chair. i believe this van is a danger to our family and should be put on the registry of recalled vehicles for repair. *tr | |||
| 03/19/2009 | 93000 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2002 chrysler town and country. the contact stated that the steering wheel made noise whenever it was turned. he took the vehicle to the dealer and they stated that the power steering hose was too short and needed to be replaced. the manufacturer stated that the vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign id number 04v386000. the current mileage was approximately 94,000 and failure mileage was approximately 93,000. | |||
| 02/29/2008 | 50000 | 1 | |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2002 chrysler town and country. while driving 35 mph, the power steering failed without warning. the contact was able to pull the vehicle to the side of the road. the vehicle was towed to a mechanic and they stated that the power steering hose failed due to pressure from the steering rack. the purchase date was unknown. the current and failure mileages were 50,000. | |||
| 01/15/2008 | 75000 | 3 | 07/11/2002 |
| Power steering whining due to improper hose design. hoses have been replaced by dealer with temporary results. pump ok. there should be alot more complaints on this issue, the dealer seemed well aware of it. *tr | |||
| 12/10/2007 | 2 | ||
| There was a recall for chrysler power steering hoses and mine was fixed two years ago & they refuse to fix it again saying wear & tear. also, they put out a notice (but not to owners) that the oil plate on these vehicles are leaking & there is no recall for that problem which i've already consulted 50 people with the same van and same problem. *tr | |||
| 02/03/2006 | 54500 | 2 | 09/19/2003 |
| Dt*: the contact stated while driving at 10 mph and turning the steering wheel had excessive play and shuttering. there is a nhtsa recall, #04v386000 concerning the power assist; hoses, piping and connections however the recall did not correct the problem. the vehicle is having the same problem again. the dealer has been notified. the dealer also replaced the power steering pump, the cooler, and the rack unit. the vehicle has not been repaired. | |||
| 07/28/2005 | 50000 | 1 | 03/25/2002 |
| 2002 chrysler town & country ex (mileage 50,000) caught fire. drove car from the university of michigan to my office on platt road, ann arbor. as i turned into the parking lot, power steering failed, was not able to move it. noticed dense white smoke comming into the car from the dashboard and through the door pillars. got out of the car, and after about 5 minutes, opened the hood of the car and carefully opened it. noticed a fire at the back of the engine compartment. my associate rushed into the office building and extinguished the fire using a fire extingusher. after the fire was extinguished called aaa to tow the car to the dealership. dealership the following day did inform me that the steering wheel hose containing the steering fluid has failed, the steering fluid had leaked onto the exhaust manifold and caught fire. *nm | |||
| 11/01/2004 | |||
| Received recall for upper power steering return hose. dealership still have not gotten this matter taken care of yet. *bf recall #04v386000. *sc | |||
| 09/10/2003 | 4 | 12/15/2001 | |
| 2002 chrysler town & country mini-van: over a 2 year period, power steering fluid was leaking three times. one separate time the power steering totally went out while driving. the last time i was told that a hose was too small and that there had been a recall notice. however,i never received one and there is none listed for this problem on your web site.*ak | |||
| 10/30/2003 | 1 | 06/13/2002 | |
| Went it rains or it is very damp our power steer willl not work. if we turn off the car and start it again it is okay. i have had the tension and pulley replaced and when the colller hose broke and i lost power steering. *ak | |||
| 07/24/2003 | 1 | ||
| While drving steering high pressure hose malfunctioned. dealer notified. *ak | |||
| 07/16/2003 | 1 | ||
| The consumer showed up for an appointment for a safety campaign to replace the power steering cooler hoses, and the dealer did not have the parts. consumer was very concerned about the safety of the vehicle. koons of tysons corner (703) 448-7221. *ak | |||
| 06/24/2003 | 8495 | 1 | 08/27/2002 |
| Believe related to pe 03-012; power steering hoses failed while van driving.dealer replaced hoses and said part of recall on hoses. vehicle sat in hot plus 90 degree sun all day. *ak | |||
| 05/11/2003 | 2 | 09/23/2002 | |
| Twice the power steering system failed with complete fluid leakage from vehicle and power steering inoperable. both times dealer repaired power steering cooler line hoses and clamps. *nlm | |||
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - POWER STEERING FLUID | |||
| 04/29/2003 | 50074 | 1 | |
| While driving at high speed steering wheel locked up due to power steering rack cracking and allowing power steering fluid to leak out. it had to be towed. | |||
| 04/09/2003 | 5000 | 08/03/2002 | |
| 2 complete power steering failures on april 9 and on march 3,2003 after repeated repairs for power steering fluid leakages from nov 2002-april 2003. *nlm | |||
| 12/23/2002 | 19395 | 3 | |
| Complete failure of power steering system. upon startup of vehicle in garage, heard loud bang. exited vehicle to find hugh puddle of power steering fluid pouring from vehicle. it was undrivable. dealer installed power steering line and power steering cooler. since then, fluid has leaked twice again. dealer has replaced another hose, and spring clamps. then heard whirring' noise. had to return to dealer a last time to purge air out of system that was not done correctly during repairs. so far, no more leaks, but i am not certain it is fixed for good. currently we are in arbitration through the ncds because of this and other repairs repeatedly performed.*jb | |||
| 02/26/2003 | 1 | ||
| The power steering fluid leaked from the vehicle, which made the vehicle difficult to turn.*jb | |||
| 02/10/2003 | 1 | ||
| The power steering failed, which made the vehicle difficult to steer.*jb | |||
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - PUMP | |||
| 02/28/2007 | 90000 | 100 | 12/28/2001 |
| 1) at low speeds, especially turning there was noise and shaking in the front of the chrysler 2002 town and country. it was identified at a garage as a power steering cooler hose problem and in fact there was a recall for this. i then took it to a chrysler dealer - doan in rochester ny - who agreed that was the problem, but my vehicle identification number was not on the list for replacement. i found it very hard to believe that the correct problem did not qualify. i called chrysler customer service and got the same story. they said that the vin numbers listed were determined by nhtsa and they - in so many words - were off the hook. i did have it replaced with my own money, but i am upset about it. 2) my air bag light started to go on telling me that the air bags were turned off. then the light would go off for a little and come back on for no reason , speed, or outside temperature. again i was told it was clock springing in the mechanism in the steering column. i felt that this was a very dangerous problem involving the life or death of my family should an accident occur. the dealer again agreed that this was the problem, encouraged me to get it fixed, and gave me an indication that this was common and that again my vehicle did not qualify for any recall. i had it fixed, but feel that this is a dangerous situation. *jb | |||
| 08/18/2006 | 30000 | 3 | 06/05/2006 |
| No events led up to failure power steering pump failed 3 xs in 6 months @39000 miles. even after doing tsbs, and replacing with oem pump, it failed again! *jb | |||
| 05/18/2002 | 1 | 05/16/2002 | |
| 2002 town & country steering column failed. *ts ***nar*** a new steering pump had to be ordered. *jb | |||
| 02/03/2006 | 54500 | 2 | 09/19/2003 |
| Dt*: the contact stated while driving at 10 mph and turning the steering wheel had excessive play and shuttering. there is a nhtsa recall, #04v386000 concerning the power assist; hoses, piping and connections however the recall did not correct the problem. the vehicle is having the same problem again. the dealer has been notified. the dealer also replaced the power steering pump, the cooler, and the rack unit. the vehicle has not been repaired. | |||
| 11/11/2004 | 1 | ||
| Power steering pump failure. *jb | |||
| 08/01/2004 | 3 | ||
| Problems with power steering pump on 2002 chrysler town and country. *mr there was a continuous problem with the consumers power steering pump. the steering pump made a noise when a right turn was made. the airbag light had come on due to a loose connector on the passenger side which was an intermittent problem. the transmission was noisy, which was possibly due to dirt. *sc *jb | |||
| STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM | |||
| 10/26/2007 | 5 | ||
| Power steering has failed at least five times. sometimes when driving 30 mph without warning, sometimes when backing out of a driveway, sometimes when slowing down to make a turn resulting in a near- miss and jumping a curb. to this date steering continues to emit a whining noise. hoses were replaced, steering column rebuilt. more than once dealer stated that they could not replicate the problem resulting in great inconvenience to us. *tr | |||
| 04/02/2007 | 77000 | 50 | 03/22/2007 |
| Power steering failed when vehicle was cold and turning to the left. no events led up to the failure, it just did it. we bought the 2002 t&c in march 2007... got a great deal. but then, after one week, the power steering began to fail. took it to dealer and they test drove the vehicle, but could not find the cause of the problem. it has gotten worse and every morning steering wheel locked up and could not be turned, but only when making left turns, and in drive. taking back to dealer to find the cause of the problem again today. *ak | |||
| 10/16/2006 | 64290 | 2 | 09/27/2006 |
| 10am, driving at a low rate of speed, slowing to turn left, i suddenly lost power steering and had to manual make the turn (very difficult). the van was also hesitating, like it would stall. i regained full power and power steering after 10 seconds +/-. noon, same day, accellerating <35mph, uphill, same problem occurred with the exception that after power steering failure, i completely stalled in the road and had to restart the vehicle. brought to dealership wednesday. they were unable to find the problem (no code) or duplicate the problem. (also an issue with an intermittent problem with the power side door popping off but not power opening). both electrical issues have occured since the five star dealership corrected an electrical problem with my power gatelift popping off but not power opening) i have called chrysler directly about technical service bulletins issued on both items and the advance service information 02-018/nhtsa#10000327 relating to the problem with the power side door and/or liftgate. even with providing this information, the problem cannot be fixed until they get a code. i have exhausted my progress with chrysler in their assistance with the proper diagnosis of the problem so i could pay to have the correct component replaced. my option is to pay $50 per diagnostic check by the dealer regardless of whether the vehicle codes the problem and no assurances as to the number of diagnostic checks it may take to produce the code, so i filed a complaint with chrysler customer assistance which is handled in house. when asked what department handles complaints, i was told chrysler customer assistance. i clarified that is the same department title as to which i was speaking with, it was explained that customer assistance has many departments, which are not given titles, and that they are not allowed to provide names of whom would be handling the complaint, nor would anyone follow up with me. the circles begins! *nm | |||
| 09/25/2006 | 51960 | 2 | 10/31/2001 |
| Dt*: the contact stated while driving 40 mph, there was a small amount of play in the steering wheel. then, during a left turn, the vehicle lost power assist steering. this was followed by the turn signal switch not returning to the neutral position. the vehicle was not taken in for service. the consumer stated while making a left turn the wheel locked. the consumer stated the vehicle is currently at the repair shop. updated 09/11/07 *tr | |||
| 05/12/2005 | 2 | 10/31/2002 | |
| 2002 chrysler town and country power steering failed. *kb the consume back his vehicle out of his driveway into the street. when he tried o turn the steering wheel to the right there was not power steering. after a couple minutes the consumer was able maneuver the vehicle without any problems. the vehicle was driven to it's destination and parked. the consumer returned to his vehicle and was able to drive off without a problem. but when he needed to make a right turn the steering wheel felt as if there was no power steering again and almost caused an accident. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for a test drive. the technician drove the vehicle 21 miles but he could not duplicate the problem. the manufacturer was contacted and indicated that they hadn't received any other complaints about the steering. *nm | |||
| 04/15/2006 | 49184 | 2 | |
| Dt*: the contact stated that while backing out of a parking space, the power steering failed, requiring additional effort to turn the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to a service dealer, where the dealer was unable to duplicate or determine the problem. the raack and pinion was replaced and the transmission had a leak. updated 03/20/07. *jb | |||
| 04/13/2006 | 6 | 12/01/2004 | |
| After driving through water puddles on the pavement, the power steering temporarily fails and is accompanied by a loud squealing sound. took vehicle to dealer repair and was told that there was no fix for the problem. *jb | |||
| 03/11/2004 | 3 | 07/14/2002 | |
| Power steering replacement pump is defective. have had 3 install with no correction to problem. 1. steering wheel drags/ lags with minor movement 2. steering wheel shimmies with rapid movement 3. movement creates rubbing and rumbling noise after 3 replacement installations, dealer refuses to further address the issue even after acknowledging the problem still exists. vehicle was brought in under original warranty on 3/11/04 for recall c20 (power steering hose). problems began immediately upon return. this is a safety hazard. *jb | |||
| 05/13/2004 | 38000 | 3 | |
| While driving at any speed power steering failed. the dealership repaired the problem twice. but, consumer was still having the same problems. *ak | |||
| 07/06/2004 | 20000 | 3 | |
| While driving at low speeds the power steering failed without warning. as a result, the steering became very difficult. please provide additional information. *jb | |||
| 07/01/2003 | 27223 | 1 | 10/30/2001 |
| Problems with engine when air conditioner or heater was operative.*mr (nar) the consumer noticed that when the heat or a/c were on the engine strained. the dealer replaced the compressor but that did not alleviate the problem. the consumer also noticed a clicking sound coming form the steering wheel and the steering wheel seemed loose. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and the parts were ordered to make the repair. prior to the repairs being made the consumer's son lost control of the vehicle damaging the entire driver's side. the driver indicated that he was attempting to make a right hand turn when he heard a pop and lost control of the vehicle. the steering box was replaced under warranty but a few months later the pop noise returned. *nm | |||
| 09/03/2004 | 53000 | 1 | |
| The consumer lost control of the vehicle due to a defect in the power steering which was being recalled by the manufacturer. in the process, not only did the consumer loose steering control but the air bags failed to deploy upon impact. provide further details. *jb | |||
| 17000 | 1 | 12/03/2002 | |
| While driving at 50 mph vehicle suddenly pulled to the left. this caused the driver to lose control and hit a guard rail before coming to a stop. *ak | |||
| 06/18/2002 | 1 | 1 | 06/18/2002 |
| Power steering - whining, groaning noise and shutters or vibrates in low speed parking situations. this has been going on since the first day i drove the car off the lot back in 2002. the dealer did power steering recall work and a procedure to bleed air from the system but there was no change. *la | |||
| STEERING - LINKAGES | |||
| 01/15/2004 | 39000 | 2 | 05/18/2002 |
| I own a 2002 chrysler town & country. at approx. 25k mileage, left front strut replaced under warranty. now out of warranty at 39,000 miles, the sway bar links need to be replaced. dealer recommends that related bushings be replaced as well because we've seen a number of them go bad. other comment that we've seen the links go earlier than this indicate to me that there is a systemic problem(s) here. car has not been driven in extraordinary situations that might cause early failure of such parts. at the age of 55, i have owned many cars and never have i experienced such early failure of steering/suspension parts. how many others have had the same issues with these vehicles? *cb | |||
| STEERING - LINKAGES - TIE ROD ASSEMBLY | |||
| 07/02/2007 | 13223 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2002 chrysler town and country. while driving at speeds of 60-65 mph on a slightly wet road surface, the vehicle began pulling to the extreme right without driver intent. the contact attempted to straighten the steering wheel but the failure persisted. the contact was unable to maintain control of the vehicle and proceeded to crash into a nearby guardrail. the fire department and police were called to the scene. there were no injuries. the vehicle was completely destroyed and towed to the contacts residence. the failure was caused by the tie rod. the vin was provided; however, it was not accepted at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage was 13,223. | |||
| STEERING - RACK AND PINION | |||
| 04/15/2006 | 49184 | 2 | |
| Dt*: the contact stated that while backing out of a parking space, the power steering failed, requiring additional effort to turn the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to a service dealer, where the dealer was unable to duplicate or determine the problem. the raack and pinion was replaced and the transmission had a leak. updated 03/20/07. *jb | |||
| 02/14/2006 | 1 | ||
| 2002 chrysler town & country, 3 years 11 months old, 46,000 miles, rack and pinion failed. the gentlemen at the chrysler dealership said he has seen quite a few of these rack and pinion system fail. he said you could lose your steering and control of the vehicle. rack and pinion replaced. *nm | |||
| 02/03/2006 | 54500 | 2 | 09/19/2003 |
| Dt*: the contact stated while driving at 10 mph and turning the steering wheel had excessive play and shuttering. there is a nhtsa recall, #04v386000 concerning the power assist; hoses, piping and connections however the recall did not correct the problem. the vehicle is having the same problem again. the dealer has been notified. the dealer also replaced the power steering pump, the cooler, and the rack unit. the vehicle has not been repaired. | |||
| 02/09/2006 | 29990 | 3 | 06/20/2005 |
| Our 2002 chrysler town and country with 30,000 miles on it began having problems with the power steering in december of 2005. the check engine light came on february 2006 so we brought the van into a chrysler service shop. we were informed that the seal to the power steering fluid was leaking so we had to replace the entire steering rack. the check engine light indicated there was an internal transmission problem. after tearing the transmission apart they found that the torque converter needed replacement as well as the seals on the internal clutches. this vehicle only has 30,008 miles on it. we were forced to pay the entire $3183.89 to fix it. it was a poorly built vehicle with faulty parts. we are upset that chrysler can not tell us why a vehicle with so few miles needs all these major replacement parts and will not take any responsibility or stand behind this vehicle. *jb | |||
| 07/03/2003 | 21740 | 1 | 04/10/2003 |
| Power steering failed inoperative power steering at 21740 miles was repaired at goldstien chrysler at 43470 power steering failed power steering rack was defective. *jb | |||
| 01/12/2005 | 18000 | 3 | |
| Recall #d37 upper power steering hose replaced @ 17,590 miles. then on jan. 2005 power steering vibrating, power steering oil low oil leak ( 18,211 miles) nov. 2005 oil leak again don kott added oil ---jan. 19,2006 took it to don kott again and was told the rack and pinion seal is leaking oil. since my warranty was over at oct 2005 but my mileage is only 25,000 miles. the estimate repair cost will be $1,100 dollars. i feel that this should not happen at 25,000 miles and it was an defective parts. i wish the daimler chrysler will recall this part because the mechanic told me that lots of the mini-van rack and pinion has failed, there were three mini-van at the dealer for similar problem at this date. i appreciate your prompt investigation on this matter. thank you james segawa 1-20-2006. *nm | |||
| 11/28/2004 | 50000 | 1 | 11/28/2004 |
| Rack and pinion leaking. i was told by a technician that i could lose my steering if not fixed. this is very dangerous. | |||
| 09/01/2004 | 58000 | 100 | 11/03/2001 |
| Steering was sticky, binding, and hard to steer. installed steering gear, c-4743142ah. inspect power steering.*ak | |||
| STEERING - RACK AND PINION - RACK | |||
| 04/29/2003 | 50074 | 1 | |
| While driving at high speed steering wheel locked up due to power steering rack cracking and allowing power steering fluid to leak out. it had to be towed. | |||
| STEERING - WHEEL AND HANDLE BAR | |||
| 08/05/2002 | 1300 | 12 | 07/01/2002 |
| The vehicle stalled without warning. *jb as the consumer pulled into the parking space, the vehicle stalled without warning, then the vehicle was placed in park, restarted, and continued into the parking space. on another occasion the vehicle into reverse, the vehicle stalled without warning, restarted the vehicle, placed in drive and stalled again. there was an intermittent click noise when the pedal is depressed, the a/c fan noise, the suspension felt loose and leaned to left, uneven tire wear, clunk noise in the front end when coming to a stop, when turning, and pulling into a parking space, the tires meet a resistance,the gas pedal vibrated, and there was a groaning noise in the steering wheel and or the engine when turning or when in reverse. the motor mount was installed incorrectly and was repositioned properly. scc | |||
| 12/01/2002 | 1 | 08/28/2002 | |
| 2002 chrysler town & country horn the horn on the vehilcles is very difficult to honk, for the lack of a better word. tapping the horn as a friendly gesture is out of the question - in fact it is disconcerting in that you really have to press hard on it to make it work and when it finally works, it is quite a blast (because of the pressure required). the dealer says that they are all this way (i can't be sure of that)and that they are not allowed to make any changes to the tension or part involved in the problem. no vehicle i have ever owned has even remotely exhibited this problem. the fact is that it becomes a safety issue because one has to consciously think about how hard to press on the horn to produce the desired results. in this case, the only result is a very loud and unfriendly blast. many thanks, nick 707-785-3440 ts | |||