My Avalon is having steering problems consistent with what other threads have identified as a rack and pinion failure (I'll explain at end for those not familiar with the problem), although my system showed no signs of fluid leaks. To date, I have had the P/S belt, fluid flush/replacement (numerous times), pump, and most recently rack & pinion replaced by a local garage (trusted family friend). The "symptoms" appear to be returning just 2 weeks after the r&p were replaced. Any suggestions on where to go from here?
Initially, the wheel was stiff in turns and did not return to center, giving the feeling I'm driving a vehicle without P/S. I checked fluid levels (above the "min" level in the reservoir) and no leaks were evident. The problem started as an intermittent thing, and progressed to fulltime over a 1 week period. The car only has 75K miles on it and I have owned it since day 1 (garage kept and well maintained). The initial repair was new P/S belts and a system flush($200). When that didn't work the P/S pump and rack & pinion were replaced ($700). The problem still exists, but now it is only intermitently. I took it back to my mechanic and he didn't notice the problem during a short test drive, but changed the P/S fluid to the
Toyota brand at the suggestion of the dealer. I'm at the 2 week point on the r&p replacement and fear this will only get worse.
As of Mid-April, I've had the car back from the latest trip to the mechanic and things appear to be working fine. The part replaced this time is referred to (by my mechanic) as the "steering knuckle" which connects the steering shaft to the R&Pinion. The cost this time was $400 ($300 of which was the part).
1999 Avalon Power Steering Problems
Linear Mode
