2002 Dodge Caravan Steering Noise

2002 DODGE CARAVAN
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MIKDUFF
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  • 3 POSTS
When turning the steering wheel there is a noise first when you start to turn from the straigh ahead position and its heard again about half way to full turn. This happens when turning in both directions. Sometimes when the first turn is to the right the steering seems to slip.When turned the other way and back again its ok.
The noise sounds like high presure fluid sounds.
Jun 10, 2006 at 2:37 AM
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SYNCRAIT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 235 POSTS
check your fluid levels also with the cover off turn your wheel always to the extremes to make sure there is no air in the lines, also check your belts make sure none are cracked or loose.... good luck :)
Jun 10, 2006 at 11:09 AM
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MAJORV
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We have the same problem with our 2003 Dodge Caravan - started before the warranty ran out and it was in the dealer's shop 4 times and never fixed. They replaced the power steering pump, hoses, and even the rack and pinion steering - noise still came back. Sometimes it even shudders a little when turning. I would love to know what the problem is, and there are quite a few other people with Caravans and Town & Countrys compaining about this. We can't in good conscience sell the car to anyone so we'll have to trade it in when we get another car.
Jun 29, 2006 at 4:08 PM
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MIKDUFF
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I also had the steering rack changed but it didn't correct thr problem. They tell me now it could be that the bearings on top off the struts are are bad causing that noise when you turn the wheels. I have yet to have them changed. I am looking at replacing them later this summer. We'll see what happens. It has been a costly venture trying to narrow it down.
Jun 29, 2006 at 9:52 PM
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MIKDUFF
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I had the bearings on top off the struts changed and that corrected the problem. Try tahat and see if it corrects your problems.
Jul 11, 2006 at 11:23 AM

Suggested Repair

Check power steering fluid level, turn the wheel lock to lock with the reservoir open to bleed air, and inspect the drive belts for cracks or looseness. If the noise continues after the pump, hoses, and steering rack have been replaced, replace the upper strut bearings, which corrected the same turning noise on a similar Caravan.

Conversation Summary

A 2002 Dodge Caravan makes a high-pressure fluid-like noise when the steering wheel is turned from center and again partway through the turn, in both directions, and the steering sometimes feels like it slips. An expert advised checking fluid level, bleeding air from the system, and inspecting the belts. Other owners reported the same issue after pump, hose, and rack replacement; one said replacing the upper strut bearings eliminated the noise.

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