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Increased Steering Effort on Cold Start-Up (Replace Lower Control Arms)

Subject:Increased Steering Effort on Cold Start-up (Replace Lower Control Arms)

Models:2004-2005 Chevrolet Malibu
2005 Pontiac G6



This bulletin is being updated to revise the labor time information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 05-02-32-001B (Section 02 -- Steering).


Condition

Some customers may comment on increased steering effort for a few seconds just after starting the vehicle. This condition occurs when the outside temperatures are under 10°F (-12°C). This condition is short in duration and does not set a code. In many instances, it will not be possible to duplicate the customer's concern unless temperatures are below 10°F (-12°C).

Cause

This condition may be caused by additional resistance in the lower control arm ball stud when cold.

Correction

Important: 

   •  To aid in installation of the lower control arms, loosely start all bolts to hold the assembly in place and then tighten to the correct torque specification.
   • On the right side of the vehicle, it is necessary to remove the wheel well splash shield and the engine splash shield.

REPLACE BOTH FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARMS. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement in SI.

Parts Information

Part Number

Description

22730776

Arm Asm, Front Lower Control (Right)

22730775

Arm Asm, Front Lower Control (Left)

11589341

Bolt

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

E9422*

Lower Control Arm - Replace (Both)

2.1 hrs

Engine Code 8

1.1 hrs

Engine Codes 1, B and F

Note: For alignment times, refer to Operation E2020 and add the applicable times to the regular labor hours.

*This labor operation is for bulletin use only. It will not be published in the Labor Time Guide.