[AccordBOEING]

My dad's 97 Avalon has been making a strange noise for the last 3-4 days. When the car is started and you turn the steering wheel you hear a "growl" noise from the engine. At first I thought it was the cold but even after warming the car up and driving for 10-20 minutes you still hear it. I checked the belts and noticed the of the 2 on the left side the larger one (serpentine, i think) is moving but one of the pulleys is not turning. It may be the AC pulley which isn't moving since the AC is not on but still it seemed irregular. The noise only happens when you move the steering wheel. Could the steering pump be going? The power steering fluid level is fine.

My dad made an appointment with his fav. mechanic for monday but I am curious to know if anyone here knows an answer)

Thanks

 

[b1azn]

might be the boot for the rack and pinion. the fluid of the power steering should rise and fall as you turn the steering wheel, if everything is in working condition.

 

[AccordBOEING]

Update: There was a leak in the power steering system and the lack of fluid caused the loud noise when turning the wheel. He added steering fluid and that sovled the problem until we could give to him to fix. He replaced the "steering gear" which cost about $150 plus about $100 labour. Where is this part located on the car?

THanks

 

[muchachomalo]

When I turn some times it groans so I mgiht possibly have a power sterring problem myself. DOes anybody know if it is common in this year?

 

[AccordBOEING]

When I turn some times it groans so I mgiht possibly have a power sterring problem myself. DOes anybody know if it is common in this year?

Check your power steering fluid. If it is low add more. If that stops the noise then you may have a leak somewhere in the system. Get it to a mechanic ASAP.

 

[ldog12345]

me too

I'm having the same problem, mine is a 1996 Avalon. It is conspicuously leaking fluid onto my garage floor.

Should I assume that I MUST take it to a mechanic to replace the steering gear? I want to order the part (my mechanic is quoting me $800) and bring it to the mechanic or replace it myself. Is this the part? http://www.drivewire.com/toyotaparts/catalog/toyotaavalonsteeringrack.html

Also, I'm refilling the fluid as a quick fix. Does anyone know if the 96 Avalon needs a specific steering fluid or if a generic one will do?

 

[Bunthy]

i think its a pretty common problem with our cars. Another problem is the rack and pinion. Do a google on recalls/ problems 1995 avalon, you should be able to get something.

 

[jhbhatia]

He replaced the "steering gear" which cost about $150 plus about $100 labour. Where is this part located on the car?

THanks

Usually its the high pressure power steering hose that give out in these vehicles. The hose is for $60 bucks at toyota, aftermarket hoses are $35-45 bucks and its no brainer, a shop could do an install for additional 30 bucks more.