Help needed on 1999 Camry LE Steering problems

[RedCamry99]

Hi
Need help on some problems with my 1999 Camry steering.

When i steer to the left (sharp left) in rain over a puddle, the steering just rotates but the car actually has not turned that much compared to the steering motion (steering ratio).

Also i note that in normal driving conditions also, whenever i turn to the left with the left INDICATOR ON, when the steering starts coming back to its original position, the INDICATOR turns off automatically much earlier (that is the turn is not yet complete but yet the switch goes to OFF state).

One more thing i noted is that when the steering is fully turned (either left or right) i can hear loud squeaky noice (shrill).

I wonder what the problem could be. When i took the car to one of the mechanics, he suggested that the STEERING belt could be loose and it needs to be replaced/tightened.

Does anybody think something else could be a problem here? Please help !!!

I tried my best to explain the problem though i am not sure if i explained it properly !!!

Thanks
RedCamry99

[Mike Gerber]

"I wonder what the problem could be. When i took the car to one of the mechanics, he suggested that the STEERING belt could be loose and it needs to be replaced/tightened."

I have to agree that's the best place to start troubleshooting, especially since you said the belt screeches when fully turned to either side. Should take no more than 5 minutes up on a lift to tighten the belt. It could be something more comnplicated, like a bad steering rack, but start with the simple and inexpensive stuff first.

Mike

[RedCamry99]

Thanks for the quick response Mike. I will have to take it to the mechanic then. I do'nt have the necessary things to do it myself.