I am the original owner of a 1999 Buick Regal gs (3.8L super charged) with approx. 85,000 miles. On Jan. 12, 2006 I lost power assist when making a left hand turn. This failure only effected the power assist in a left hand turn; right was ok. I pulled into a parking spot after a short drive to work and noticed the steering got tight. I heard a 'pop' when I lost assist. After work I drove home with no assist to the left. The problem is only when the wheel is turned clockwise from straight on position. I haven't driven a non-power steering car in about 15 years but this seemed much worse (very difficult to steer). I checked for any type of leak or belt issue, but my initial thought is if that was the problem I would have the problem regardless of steering direction. I have since spoke to a dealer regarding the problem and they are confident a replacement of the steering rack and pinion is required. There is actually a safety recall for 1996-98 Buick Regals for this identical issue. This is a very serious problem that could result an accident.

- Edwards, IL, USA

One owner car, well maintained and safely driven. 70000 miles. While driging car, steering locked up during left and right turns. Steering popped"out of position several times. Very hazardous to drive. Mechanic was a short distance away, however ty the time I got there, the steering wheel was positioned at the 4 O'clock position wihile drigin straight ahead. Mechanic stated the only other car that he had seen a rack fail on so early was a '97 Buick Regal. Understand there was a recall that eneded in 1998. Repair to replace rack, $800. Additional cost of $350 at dealer to fix airbag warning light. Dealer maintains incorrect repair to rack caused this problem in the steering wheel. Old part is not available. This was a serioius hazard!

- Vienna, VA, USA

Had to replace the rack on the power steering system today due to steering difficulty and leakage. The vehicle only has 104K miles. Repair cost by a Buick dealership was approximately $1400.

- Oviedo, FL, USA

1999 Regal with 47,000 mile has developed a clanking noise from steering wheel when making left turn same problem now exist when making right or left turn. Delivery date on service id is 28 Oct 98. Yet this model is not listed in lastest power steering recall - the description of my problem is duplicated in this latest recall.

- Camden, NJ, USA