2001 Oldsmobile Alero steering problems

Tl* the contact owned a 2001 oldsmobile alero. While driving at an unknown speed, the contact noticed smoke coming from the steering wheel followed by flames. There were no injuries. The contact also stated that there was a shortage with the blinkers, which activated intermittently. The contact extinguished the fire. The vehicle was destroyed and not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 125,000.

While backing out of a parking space, steering ability had severely reduced to nil. . There was no warning in feel, just a clunk sound. After immediate stop, steering was checked again by turning steering wheel. No response in either direction. Vehicle had to be towed from area which was semi blocking traffic due to the inability to steer vehicle. Auto tech had said the sub frame holding key steering components was rusted beyond repair and had to be replaced.