Diagnostic Information for Noise in Steering and Inspection of Idler Arm Bracket

This bulletin is being revised to add Labor Time for the inspection and parts information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 05-03-08-019A (Section 03 -- Suspension).

Some customers may bring their vehicle in for service and comment on any of the following conditions:

1. A popping or snapping noise in the steering.
2. The steering wheel may require more rotation than usual to make the vehicle steer.
3. The steering wheel may be harder to rotate than usual in certain positions as the vehicle is steered.

Inspect the front end components for wear. See Symptoms-Suspension General Diagnosis in SI. If the steering parts are in specification, remove the idler arm from the bracket and swing it out of the way. Clean the idler arm bracket and inspect for cracks. If cracks are present, refer to Special Coverage Adjustment Steering Idler Arm Attaching Bracket Fracture # 07103. If no cracks are present, recoat the idler arm bracket with Anti-Corrosion Compound (Clear) Wax Based, or equivalent, and reinstall the idler arm.

Tighten
Tighten the idler arm to frame bolts to 150 N·m (111 lb ft).

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: