GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

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

Go to Step 2

Go to Steering Wheel and Column Description and Operation

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 mounting features for the following conditions:

    • Steering column mounting fasteners for looseness
    • Steering column mounting features are sheared

Are the steering column mounting features loose?

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 4

4

Inspect the SIR/SRS coil for noise.

Is the SIR/SRS coil noisy?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 5

5

Inspect the lock plate retaining ring for correct installation.

Is the lock plate retaining ring installed incorrectly?

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 6

6

Inspect the steering column upper and lower bearings for the following conditions:

    • Damage
    • Lubrication
    • Wear
    • Proper seating

Are the bearings in need of repair or replacement?

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 7

7

Does the tilt joint need to be lubricated?

Go to Step 13

Go to Step 8

8

Important: This is best evaluated while driving the vehicle, turning the steering and applying the brake pedal.

Inspect the steering column intermediate shaft for noise.

Is the steering column intermediate shaft noisy?

Go to Step 14

Go to Step 15

9

Important: If the steering column mounting feature is damaged or sheared, the steering column will need to be replaced. Refer to Steering Column Replacement.

Tighten the steering column mounting fastener to specifications. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 15

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10

Replace the SIR/SRS coil. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 15

--

11

Install the lock plate retaining ring correctly.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 15

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12

Important: If the steering column upper and/or lower bearings are not serviceable, the steering column will need to be replaced. Refer to Steering Column Replacement.

Replace the upper and/or lower bearings, if serviceable.

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 15

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13

Lubricate the tilt joint.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 15

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14

Replace the appropriate steering intermediate shaft component.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 15

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15

Operate the system in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 3