Problems with 2001 GMC Jimmy STEERING

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 gmc jimmy. the contact stated that while driving approximately 20-25 mph, the steering wheel seized without warning and caused the contact to lose control of the vehicle, crashing into a garage. the contact sustained injuries to the back and neck. the vehicle was towed to a salvage yard. the manufacturer was contacted and was scheduled to further inspect the vehicle. the failure and current mileage was 149,000. *tr

On highway during heavy rain, vehicle left roadway along slight curve by failing to turn front wheels and hydroplaned straight off pavement. vehicle then left the ground flying downhill, smashed front passenger side bumper into and through 10+ inch tree, spun 90 degrees clockwise before side impacting two 25+ inch trees against driver side door and rear wheel, before coming to a stop (on steep hill held by the trees), totaling the jimmy. top of vehicle had to be cut off to free driver. police originally thought accident was fatality. vehicle had previously experienced failure to turn after braking lightly, like before entering driveways or parking spaces. steering would lock in straight position and car had to be shifted to park and restarted before wheel could be turned again. when taken to well known auto shop for this steering issue before accident, shop stated that problem was located in front passenger side and was then repaired. *tr

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 30 mph on normal road conditions, smoke started coming out of the steering column. no warning lights were illuminated. the vehicle was pulled over and the engine was turned off, however it kept running and the engine warning light illuminated. all the exterior lights failed except the head lights. the dealer appointed the vehicle for inspection on october 18th 2006. the manufacturer was contacted who promised to call back october 19th (didnt call back) after the results of the dealership inspection had been delivered to them. the contact expressed concern because the safety risk involved in this electrical failure should be the manufacturer's responsibility. updated 11/9/2006 - *nm

I own a 2001 gmc jimmy 2 door, 2wd with 34,000 miles. i had to have replaced the idler arm and tie rod and 4 brand new tires because the idler arm was shot. there are only 34,000 miles on this vehicle, less than the 36,000 mile warranty. gm would not repair it because of the vehicle was more than 3 years old. the auto technician at the tire store was amazed that this vehicle had such a bad problem with tire wear and the idler arm mechanism this early. this cost me $550 to fix. *jb

Clunking noise in front end - verified excessive play in idler arm & pitman arm. *la