I have a 1998 Ford Explorer that I have been getting a loud grunting noise everytime I turn left. Replaced rack N pinion and power steering pump, and still no change. Noise is still there.

- Greeley, CO, USA

On 5/7/03, I took my 1998 Ford Explorer to classic Ford in smithfield nc., because I had been hearing a roaring noise when ever I turned to the left. I was told they needed to replace my rack & pinion. They will have to keep it a couple days to replace it. I feel that is very unusual for an auto with only 66,000 miles would have that problem with the steering.(incident date should be 5/7/2003)

- Raleigh, NC, USA

Vehicle was approximately going 60mph when a loss of steering caused vehicle to jerk side to side and roll over. Metal fatigue caused the hydrualic rack and pinion to burst and leak fluid. This manufacturer was notified, and vehicle was totaled.

- Columbus, OH, USA

When turning steering wheel to the left there is a noise. Rack and pinion malfunctioned.

- Olean, NY, USA

Rack and pinion steering momentarily locked up while making a left turn. Vehicle taken to dealer, and had rack and pinion replaced. Currently, it was making noise whenever a turn was being made. Dealer unable to locate problem. Feel free to provide any further information.

- Atoka, TN, USA

Rack and pinion steering failed. While driving would feel like vehicle had flat tires. Would have to overcompensate for steering. The steering was very difficult to control. Took vehicle to an independent mechanic, who indicated there was no rack and pinion steering left. Nlm

- Lanoka Harbor, NJ, USA

3rd steering rack and pinion in 9 months. 1st failure caused loss of vehicle control, but no injuries.

- Commack, NY, USA

Defective rack and pinion rubbs against front tires, causing more wear and tear on tires.

- Greensboro, NC, USA

This vehicle has been in for repair of the same problem, 4 times in the past year. I have also contacted the consumer complaint center at Ford Motor Co. They told me it was up to the regional rep. To make a decision on the safety of the vehicle. When I took the vehicle in for repair on 10/02/2000, the only repair they made was adding sound proofer and bolts. Are they just trying to hide the problem? and what concerns me is that, if I'm on the road with this vehicle, and something does go wrong with the steering, where will I be. The dealership is wanting to get me out of this vehicle before something does happen. But Ford is not wanting to take full responsiblity for the problems. Also this vehicle has had the tensioner pully replaced twice. Which means the motor is being opened to do this. How many more problems do I need to go through before someone will understand that this vehicle needs to be taken off the road, before something or someone gets hurt or killed in the process. All the repairs have been made at the same dealership, and can be reviewed through the database. I need your help in resolving this issue.

- Edwardsville, KS, USA

Rack and pinion steering replaced at 16000mph. Six months later, had to get it replaced again. Therefore, mechanic put in a temporary rack and pinion, and there was alot of wandering and sloppyness.

- Lutz, FL, USA

While driving about 20-25 mph, driver heard a chain saw sound which got louder and louder. After the Explorer was taken to a dealership, a technician found the steerng rack had fallen off. A service bulletin was issued on that subject. The part to correct the problem is on back order.

- Hanson, MN, USA

When heavy wind occurs it is difficult to gain control of the vehicle due to the rack and pinion steering malfunctioning.

- Cornell, IL, USA

Rack and pinion steering was replaced 2X for a griding noice that is still hear...car has been in the shop for a total of over 45 days for warentee work drivers window constantly rattles. Window gate has been replaced numerous times to no help. Fuel pump failed and was replaced

- Rochester, NY, USA