2004 Chrysler Town And Country Steering Problems

“We had to get our steering rack replaced (under warranty) at about 16,000 miles because it was groaning and hard to steer. About 16 months after that at about 42,000 miles the van was in for something else and the dealer told me the steering rack was leaking and needed to be replaced for $1100. They did not even warranty the replacement part itself which did not last.”

“Rack and pinion steering on my 2004 Chrysler Town And Country lx needs to be replaced for a cost of $1,000 per the dealer. My vehicle has only 59,000 miles. Leaks power steering fluid, makes noises when turning, and feels like steering will lock up. Numerous similar complaints have been filed.”

“Power steering pump was replaced, then started making noise. Turned out to be a leaking upper power steering hose. There was a recall on this vehicle for this hose but our VIN was not included in the recall. We paid to get the hose replaced, and we are wondering if this is a continuing problem with this power steering hose that may affect more vehicles than originally were recalled. I do have the old power steering hose.”

“In september 2018 I notice smoke coming underneath the hood and upon opening the hood my friend said that I had a fire in the engine compartment and put the fire out.after calling my insurance company and them towing it to a garage I was informed that a power steering hose had busted that they said caused the fire.I then later online looked up more information and found out that there was a NHTSA campaign:04v386000 concerning the upper power steering hose that may split that can cause a fluid leak that in the presence of an ignition source can result in an under hood fire like want happen to…”

“My wife was driving our 2004 Chrysler Town And Country. She was unable to turn the steering wheel to the left. Luckily she was in a parking lot at low speed and was able to stop. I drove the van around some and the problem would come and go. Took to dealer for repair. $1300 to replace steering rack, pump, etc. I've read that this is a very common problem with this model. Manager at the dealer was in agreement. Told me that the replacement rack should hold up because it was an improvement over the original equipment. Chrysler must realize this is a defect. Hope no one gets killed.”