2001 Chrysler Concorde Hard Steering

If the fluid is full, have the ball joints and other steering components checked. Also, a bad bushing in the rack and pinion could be causing the problem. Are there any leaks?

Joe

Thank you for your response!

The fluid level is good and there does not appear to be any leaks. Can a power steering pump cause this or would it be difficult to steer in both directions.

I would say the pump would be hard in both directions. Chances are there is a problem with the rack and pinion.

175,000 miles, huh? If this were a GM product, the problem would have shown up at 35,000 miles!

Your rack and pinion assembly has what's called "morning sickness". It starts in cold weather. There are four teflon seals that shrink and allow pressurized power steering fluid to bypass the power piston. It only affects turning in one direction at first. The other direction will lose power assist within the next few months. The problem usually goes away as the fluid warms up.

Due to the location of the rack and pinion assembly, it's not a do-it-yourselfer project. It will also require an alignment after replacement of the assembly.

caradiodoc

Thank you! My 2003 grand caravan has had the same problem for a couple of years - when it is below 40, there is no power assist turning left. Sometimes I can feel a "pop" and it suddenly has assist again, and the problem goes away when the van (or the weather) warms up.