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I'm back! Steering noise this time

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by desertrider2215, Mar 27, 2011.

  1. desertrider2215

    Joined:
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    Hello again--I'm back! Been a little over 4 months since I got rid of my 04 for a Cooper S.

    However, our other 04 that we still have is starting to make a not so nice cracking (only way I can describe it) noise when turning the wheel while dipping into a dip. Or even while turning into our driveway before we go up it. Anyone know of what this could be? Somewhere I heard the steering rack, which can cost over $2,000 (supposedly:mad:)

    Hopefully that isn't the case, otherwise we'll be unloading it. Has 105,000 miles on it now. I don't know what other info to give so if you have any ideas i'll try my best to inform you guys.

    Thanks
     
  2. jdenenberg

    jdenenberg EE Professor

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    My 2004 had a noise (and you could feel it in your hands) in the steering. Repair required replacing the upper steering column assembly for $900 (plus $90 for the diagnosis) at my dealer. The noise was due to the "slip ring" (allows the column to collapse in an accident) getting loose.

    JeffD
     
  3. desertrider2215

    Joined:
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    Thanks for the reply. Did the dealer say anything about it being a necessary replacement? Something we can put off? Or is it recommended immediately so it doesn't collapse or something, ha ha. What do you think
     
  4. jdenenberg

    jdenenberg EE Professor

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    He was not worried about an immediate failure (he had to order the part and let me drive home), but I was concerned that the noise could mask a more critical failure. It was repaired a week later.

    Why don't you drive the car up to either Arts Automotive or Luscious Garage to get an opinion.

    JeffD