Snap/Pop Type Noise During Steering Wheel Rotation (Replace Inner Tie Rod Boot)
| Subject: | Snap/Pop Type Noise During Steering Wheel Rotation (Replace Inner Tie Rod Boot) |
| Models: | 2004 Buick Regal |
| 2004-2005 Buick Century, Park Avenue |
| 2004-2006 Buick LeSabre, Rendezvous |
| 2005-2006 Buick Allure (Canada Only), LaCrosse, Terraza |
| 2006 Buick Lucerne |
| 2004 Cadillac Seville |
| 2004-2005 Cadillac Deville |
| 2006 Cadillac DTS |
| 2004-2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, Malibu Classic, Venture |
| 2004-2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Impala |
| 2005-2006 Chevrolet Uplander |
| 2004 Oldsmobile Alero, Silhouette |
| 2004 Pontiac Montana |
| 2004-2005 Pontiac Aztek, Bonneville, Grand Am, Sunfire |
| 2004-2006 Pontiac Grand Prix |
| 2005-2006 Pontiac Montana SV6 |
| 2005-2006 Saturn Relay |
Condition
Some customers may comment about a snap or pop type noise coming from the front of the vehicle. This noise usually occurs during steering wheel rotation.
Cause
The cause of this condition may be due to the inner tie rod boot collapsing unevenly, allowing for contact between the inner tie rod and the boot. This condition is sometimes referred to as "snaking."
Diagnosis
If unsure the noise is coming from the inner tie rod boot(s), have an assistant rotate the steering wheel from lock to lock with the engine off. Place your fingertips on the inner tie rod boot. If the boot is contacting the inner tie rod, that contact will be transmitted to your fingertips.
Correction
Do This | Don't Do This |
|---|---|
Replace the inner tie rod boot | DO NOT replace the steering gear |
Replace the inner tie rod boot. Refer to the Rack and Pinion Boot Replacement procedure in SI.
Parts Information
Part Number | Description | Usage |
|---|---|---|
26035404 | Boot Kit, Steering Gear | Alero, Allure (Canada), Bonneville (w/NV8), Cavalier, Century, Grand Am, Grand Prix, Impala, LaCrosse, Malibu Classic, Monte Carlo, Park Avenue (w/NV8), Regal |
21011025 | Boot Kit, Steering Gear | Aztek, Bonneville (w/o NV8), Deville, DTS, LeSabre, Lucerne, Montana SV6, Park Avenue (w/o NV8), Relay, Rendezvous, Seville, Silhouette, Terraza, Uplander |
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:
Labor Operation | Description | Labor Time |
|---|---|---|
E9435* | Replace Inner Tie Rod Boot (One Side) | 1.4 hrs** |
Add | To Replace Other Side Inner Tie Rod Boot | 0.5 hr |
* This is a unique labor operation number for bulletin use only. It will not be published in the Labor Time Guide. ** Includes diagnosis and front toe adjust time. | ||
