Automotive/99 dodge stratus

Advertisement

Expert: Sean Halliday - 10/16/2008


Question
i have a 99 dodge stratus and when i try and turn either left or right it don't want to turn and it makes a hissing sound do you know what that is and is it safe to drive

Answer
Unsafe,it sounds like you have a major leak at the power steering.Either the rack and pinion or one of the lines.Did you look at the fluid?If the fluid isnt empty,then the rack is shot,or possibly the power steering pump itself.You must find the hissing sound by getting someone to turn the wheels left and right as you look under the car and at the pump.Engine running.

Automotive

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Sean Halliday

Expertise

general auto repair,japanese,bmw,mercedes,mini cooper 1960/2009,general british cars,ford.I DO NOT work on automatic transmissions.Manual transissions i install clutches only.Many people ask me to diagnose noises from their cars,unfortunately i cannot do this unless i hear it.As you appreciate,vehicles can and will make a variety of noises.I DONT UPGRADE or fit aftermarket performace kits,parts,chips,only replacement parts.

Experience

40 years experience on all general auto repair.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.