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1999 Chrysler Sebring Repair Question


Topics covered: Steering, Power steering, Steering wheel.
Mileage: 134,000 miles.

Asked on August 25, 2012

Loud pop & no power steering

As I was driving tonight, I heard a loud pop(which i thought was a bottle that fell out of the walmart bag) and all of a sudden I began to lose steering power. I however did make it to where I was going but the steering wheel will not turn at all now. Could someone please tell me what the problem may be. I have no clue but i'm thinking the power steering pump or a belt.
Avatar Asked by april1980

Answer

Replied on August 25, 2012

Which engine do you have? Depending on the engine, the belt configuration can be different. A broken belt may also cause the battery warning light to turn on and the air conditioning to not work. A popped hydraulic hose isn't real common but it will cause only the loss of power steering. You can still drive it like that but the steering wheel will turn really hard at low speeds. You won't even notice a problem at higher speeds but don't drive it like that because the power steering pump will overheat from lack of fluid. You will never lose steering ability, just the power assist, otherwise you'd really have a safety hazard.

Tiny Answered by caradiodoc (expert)
17,665 answers provided
Replied on August 25, 2012

2.5 V6 and no the steering got hard after the initial popping noise. I was lucky to make it to where I was going. the steering wheel will not even turn at all. I see no fluid leaks but of course it's night time and i'm without a flash light so I will be checking things in the morning. I'm just needing some insite on what it could possibly be. thanks for the answer and hope this lil bit of info can help with more possible solutions.

Tiny Response from april1980
7 questions asked
Replied on August 25, 2012

Check the fluid level and signs of leaking under the car, if that ok check drive belt.

Tiny Answered by mhpautos (expert)
27,079 answers provided