GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

Did you review the Steering Wheel and Column Description and Operation and perform the necessary inspections?

Go to Step 2

Go to Symptoms - Steering Wheel and Column

2

Verify that noise is present in the steering column during operation.

Is noise present in the steering column during operation?

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

Inspect the steering column components for looseness.

Is the steering column components loose?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 4

4

Inspect the SIR coil for noise.

Is the SIR coil noisy?

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 5

5

Inspect the horn contact ring for lubrication.

Is the horn contact ring lubricated?

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 6

6

Inspect the lock plate retaining ring for the correct installation.

Is the lock plate retaining ring installed properly?

Go to Step 13

Go to Step 7

7

Inspect the shaft bearing for the following conditions:

    • Damage
    • Lubrication
    • Wear
    • Proper seating

Are the bearings in need of repair or replacement?

Go to Step 14

Go to Step 8

8

Inspect the spherical joint for lubrication.

Is the spherical joint lubricated?

Go to Step 15

Go to Step 9

9

Inspect the steering column coupling for looseness.

Is the steering column coupling loose?

Go to Step 16

Go to Step 3

10

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

Tighten the steering column components to specifications. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 17

--

11

Replace the SIR coil. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil Replacement in SIR.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 17

--

12

Lubricate the horn contact ring.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 17

--

13

Install the lock plate retaining ring properly.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 17

--

14

Repair the shaft bearings as necessary. Refer to Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, and Jacket - Disassemble - Off Vehicle .

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 17

--

15

Lubricate the spherical joints.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 17

--

16

Tighten the steering column coupling to specifications. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 17

--

17

Operate the system in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 3