Rob
I have a 2006 Silverado 1500 4x4 crew truck which, when turning slowly, emits a clunking noise from somewhere in the front end. I have scoured numerous automotive web sites and the information I have gathered indicates that the upper intermediate steering shaft is defective. I have also read that General Motors has a replacement. Do you have any information on this annoyance?
Dave
Globe writer comes through in the clutch - expert says he was right
Well Dave, not only did I learn that GM has a replacement for the intermediate shaft, after checking with my technical sources at alldata.ca, I discovered two more issues with the front end and suspension of the full-sized family of trucks from GM all contained within service bulletin no. 00-02-35-003N. In addition to the steering column intermediate shaft causing a "clunk", you can add the lower steering column bearing and a frame snap and/or popping type noise.
This isn't an exclusive club. These issues can also be found on the following trucks:
- 2002-2006 Cadillac Escalade Models
- 1999-2007 Chevrolet Silverado Models (Classic)
- 2000-2006 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe Models
- 2002-2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
- 1999-2007 GMC Sierra Models (Classic)
- 2000-2006 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL Models
- 2003-2006 HUMMER H2
Back to your situation Dave. To determine which fault is which, a simple diagnostic method establishes if this noise is not only heard, but felt in the steering wheel also. This one tip separates the intermediate shaft clunk from the other two problems. If the clunk can't be felt, it is more difficult to differentiate between the bearing and frame faults - that's the tricky part - but it can be done at a Chevy or GMC dealer, or by an alignment shop that is familiar with these trucks.
Those of you with mid-sized SUVs such as the Buick Rainier, Chevrolet TrailBlazer Models, GMC Envoy Models or Oldsmobile Bravada, have your own service bulletin to refer to: 02-02-35-006A.
Those of you who own any of the above mentioned vehicles may want to take this information to your local repair shop if you are experiencing these symptoms. There are very straightforward solutions to these faults and you may discover that you are covered by these GM technical bulletins - which will put a stop to a very annoying problem.
Searching for a new vehicle? Our Globe Drive car search makes it easy to track down the best vehicle for you