EI08035 - Engine Cradle Noise, Pop, Creak, Click, Gear Box to Cradle Joint Noise (Engineering Information)

This bulletin is being revised to restart an Engineering Investigation for noise issues and add the 2008 model year. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 08-08-61-002B (Section 08 - Body and Accessories).

Some customers may comment on a pop/creak or click type noise from the engine cradle.

GM Engineering is attempting to determine the root cause of concerns for pop/creak/click type noises coming from the steering gear to cradle joint. GM has a need to obtain technical information first hand from the dealer technician during diagnosis and PRIOR to repair. As a result, this information will be used by engineering to help root-cause the customer's concern and develop/validate a field fix.

Verify that the noise is coming from the gear box to cradle joint following the procedure below:

Important: It is important to use a wheel alignment hoist since the weight of the vehicle has to be carried through the tires.

1. Position the vehicle on the wheel alignment hoist such that the weight of the vehicle is carried through the tires. Raise the ramp to about 5-6 feet.
2. Induce the condition by placing a 7" long 4"x2" block between the lower control arm and the front wheel on the left or right side. With the engine running, turn the steering wheel to pinch the block between the lower control arm and the front wheel.
3. With the engine running, turn the steering wheel to a greater degree and listen for a clicking noise.
4. If an audible click noise is detected and can be consistently replicated, than proceed to the next step.

If there is no audible consistent noise, disregard this bulletin and refer to SI for diagnostics.

5. Spray brake cleaner to the suspect location between the gear box and the cradle. The brake cleaner fluid should almost immediately eliminate the audible click noise (by temporarily lubricating the joints) if the suspect location is indeed the source. The noise should return shortly after the brake cleaner evaporates completely - usually about a minute or two after application.
6. If the noise can be duplicated and verified to be coming from the gear box to cradle joint, contact Chris Anderson at 586-947-4313. If Chris does not return your call within two hours, continue to repair the vehicle per SI.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: