The Toyota Squeeky Steering

[boomboom124]

I have been having serious doubts as to whether my 1998 Avensis would last after developing the squeeky steering syndrome.

As ever, i searched the internet and found this site and after reading about owners problems with the squeeky steering it was

looking like my old Avensis was for the scrapyard in the sky.

I was unaware that this was a problem that has been known and well documented and seeing folk paying up to £1000 for a new steering rack

there was no way i was getting it fixed as my Avensis is only worth a couple of hundred quid. Worth millions to me though!

I had a power steering rack go on a BMW and knew how much it cost to repair/ renew!

After reading about greasing and other solutions i had another look at my car.

I lifted the bonnet up, started her up and turned the steering wheel. Horrible noise that had the neighbours looking at me in dismay.

I did note that the fan belt to the alternator slowed down as i turned the wheel and the squeel sounded.

So i got a 14mm socket and loosened the swivel bolt on the alternator and used a crow bar to wedge the alternator tight.

Tightened the bolt up while applying good pressure to the crow bar.

Turned her over again and turned the steering wheel.

NOTHING! ZILCH! ZERO! As quiet as a mouse. SORTED! HAPPY!

Hope this helps someone!

[Jamesbelfast]

Yep when squealing sounds come form the engine bay it always pays to check the auxiliary belt first.

I would advise you renew the belt though as a squealing belt will have suffered damage. A few quid spent now could save a lot of problems in the future.

[Gooli]

As the ancient saying goes : the older the car, the easier to sort.