Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (power steering, steering column, rack and pinion).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1998 Chevrolet Silverado owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
Dt*: the contact stated while making a slight turn in a curve, the steering wheel jerked making a sharper turn. This began in September 2005 and the dealership was unable to determine a problem. This progressively worsened. While driving 55 MPH, down a mountain, the steering wheel jerked causing the vehicle to hit a rock wall and the vehicle spun out of control. There was a police report taken at the scene. The vehicle was towed to a salvage yard, where the insurance company deemed the vehicle totaled. Although, the seat belt was worn, the contact sustained minor injuries.
The steering wheel on my 1998 Silverado was able to turn without the wheels turning. Taking my truck to a local garage for a cause it was detected that the bolt in the steering column was missing. I had the bolt installed and the problem was solved. I contacted the customer service department of GM and did not receive a reason why did could happen in a car I bought and was the sole owner. I also told them that I believe it to be a safety item and that a notice should be issued to other owners. The response I received was that I did not have the vehicle brought to their shops and therefore could not comment on what the problem was,or that they would do anything about it. They also said that they would not issue a bulletin as I had not brought it into one of their shops and they could not determine the cause. …
Dt: the contact stated the steering was stiff and difficult to control. When the problem first occurred the service dealer said the steering would become easier to use. The steering proceeded to get worse. While traveling at higher speeds the steering became more difficult. Had the power steering pump disconnected; this did not correct the problem, but made the steering easier. The service dealer has not inspected the vehicle to determine the cause of the problem.
1998 Chevrolet Silverado (k1500) - the tension required to turn the steering wheel momentarily becomes very loose while making right-hand turns. Driver gets the sensation there is no control of the vehicle during this time. Dealer says there is no recall but the mechanic at the same dealership told me that he has replaced hundreds of "steering wheel speed sensors". I had no choice but to fork out $200 to have it replaced. Seems to be OK now, but for how long?
In discussing our problem with other owners for GM pu's we have found that in '97 & '99 models the front ends come welded and if not brought back within certain amt of milage dealer will not fix. Ours was out of aligment upon driving off lot the first time. Dealer said to drive about 1,000 mi. To break in and bring back and will fix. Called for appt. For seat belt and front end alignment, took in, seat belt partially fixed, had to order pts. This has been 8 months ago and pt for seatbelt still not in, also did not get alignment, they were running behind, was there 3 hrs, had to go to work, could not wait. Next time called for appt. Milage was above what dealer would fix. Took to modica bros. Sisbee, tx. And cost $119.95. These trucks are arriving to dealers from mfg. This way, discussed in length with many people with same problem. …
This truck is equipped with speed compensated steering; steering position sensor went bad which allowed the steering to get tighter. The owner was informed by the dealership that "he has sold dozens of the sensors due to chronic failure". Once this sensor fails the truck is uncontrollable, at any time. Please describe details. Ts
When making a turn steering wheel will jerk either left or right. Vehicle has been repaired by dealer for the problem once. However, problem has reoccurred. Dealer replaced the power steering gear box, also consumer found oil on top of the steering box.
While driving at highway speeds steering wheel became loose, causing poor vehicle control. Dealer has been contacted, stated power steering assist accelerated to full power, causing driver to oversteer. Please provide further details.
Returning from deliveries, backing into drive to reload, steering completely failed. No steering at all. You can spin the steering wheel in either direction with no response.
When the vehicles steering wheel was turned to the left while driving about 20 MPH there was a spot where it felt like the steering wheel was slipping.
Steering complaints in other Silverado years
Frequently asked questions
How common are steering problems on the 1998 Chevrolet Silverado?
NHTSA has 21 complaints about the steering of the 1998 Chevrolet Silverado, 8% of the model year's 279 complaints. The component named most often is hydraulic power assist system (6 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1998 Chevrolet Silverado steering problems?
No. NHTSA lists no steering recall for the 1998 Chevrolet Silverado. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1998 Chevrolet Silverado steering problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 51,000 miles, and 17% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 1 crash, 0 fires and 1 injury to steering problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.