Questions and Answers

Dodge Grand Caravan Rubbing Noise Q. I have two concerns regarding two separate vehicles. The first question is in regard to our Caravan. There is a rubbing sound in the steering column whenever the steering wheel is turned. This has been happening pretty much since we have owned the vehicle, but no one seems to be able to solve the problem.

• 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan
• 3.3 liter
• Automatic transmission
• 102,000 kilometers
• Fuel injection
• ABS
• P/S, A/C, Cruise control

The second problem we have been having is with our Neon. It is making a strange whirring noise (especially when accelerating ), and today an awful smell started coming from the engine. It's a very sweet, sickening smell similar to when an engine overheats and the antifreeze boils over. The problem is the car is not overheating and there is no indication of any type of fluid leaking in the engine. As well, the battery light indicator keeps coming on even though the battery is completely charged.

• 1998 Plymouth Neon
• 2.0 liter
• Manual
• 120,000 kilometers
• Fuel Injection
• ABS
• P/S, A/C

I look forward to your response. Hopefully, you will be able to provide us with the answers we have been searching for.

Sincerely,
Glen

A. There's not too much in the steering column that can make a rubbing type noise. The most common is the steering column covers rubbing on the steering wheel.

There is the possibility of a wiring harness that has come out of it's attachments and rubbing on the steering shaft. There is a universal joint on the lower end of the steering shaft that may be dry or bad and making the noise.

You can remove the steering column covers and drive it. If the noise remains, then it is in the steering shaft itself.

As for the Plymouth Neon, Chrysler has a problem with their A/C compressors on the 1998 to 2000 Neons. There was a TSB on this and it could be what is making the noise and smell.