HELP: Ratcheting Noise in steering column when turning at low speeds...

[SIrMack]

I have a 2003 Toyota Camry XLE that has an issue.

When I turn the steering wheel at nearly stopped/very slow speeds or while stopped I can hear what sounds like a loud "Ratcheting" noise coming from the steering column or behind the steering wheel in the dash. It sounds like a ratchet wrench basically.

It drives me crazy, but more then anything it makes me concerned that there is something major damaged in the steering column or something.

The racheting noise though does sound VERY mechanical hence my concern. I wonder if my power steering is acting up or something. AS it only occurs at very slow turn speeds.

Someone said that the car has a "Ratchet lock" in the steering column, and I wonder if this is messing up somehow?

Perhaps a transmission issue?

Any help would be extremely appreciated.

Thanks!!!

[JSM1284]

Check under the dash and see if something is rubbing against the steering shaft causing the noise.

[SIrMack]

THanks for the tip! I checked and didn't see anything. Although if there was, wouldn't it be making the noise all the time rather then at slow speed turns?

It makes that Ratcheting noise when I'm straightening the car out in a parking spot or when I'm turning in a cul de sac, its very loud and the sound resembles a slightly muffled ratchet wrench in the process of ratcheting. It occurs with the wheel being turned as little as 1 rotation to the left or right from straight.

I appreciate any and all suggestions/advice/help!

Thanks!

[JSM1284]

Do you feel any type of restriction or is it just strictly a sound?

[ShawnM]

Different type of noise, but my wifes 03 LE has a squeaking type noise at times in the steering column. Most likely from the steering shaft bearing right behind the steering wheel. Nothing to really worry about in her case, though yours sounds a little more severe. It will probably have to be taken apart to see exacly whats causing it. Does your turn signal cancel normaly after you turn?

[JSM1284]

Perhaps it is the Clock-spring you are hearing, Mounted underneath the wheel, It is a spiral wound cable that could just be getting a little bound up and making a clicking noise as it ravels, and un-ravels while turning

[SIrMack]

You are a Certified TEchnician, so I will definitely have to look into it. Question is, how do I check this? is there anything I can do to diagnose that?

It makes the sound regardless if I turn left or right. Could that still be the Spring???

I was also told that it could be a CV Joint? Or the "Steering Wheel Ratchet/Lock Mechanism" ?

I *really* appreciate all the help!

When I called the few local toyota dealership service centers I was told that they have "never" experienced my problem before. Needless to say they were less then helpful unless I came down and dished out some money for them to look at it.

Any other ideas?

[JSM1284]

Maybe give this a try:



Steering - Steering Column Noise When TurningSTEERING
ST002-03
June 13, 2003
Title:
STEERING COLUMN NOISE
Models:
'02 - '03 Camry
Introduction
Some 2002 - 2003 model year Camry (NAP) vehicles may exhibit a low frequency noise when the steering wheel is turned at low speeds due to friction between the intermediate shaft and grommet. Grease application has been improved.
Applicable Vehicles ^2002 - 2003 model year Camry (NAP) vehicles produced BEFORE the Production Change Effective VINs shown below.

Production Change Information

Required Tools & Material
NOTE: Seal-Tite(TM) may be ordered by calling Kent Industries at 1-800-654-6333.

Warranty Information
Applicable warranty*
This repair is covered under the Toyota Comprehensive Warranty. This warranty is in effect for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle's in-service date.
* Warranty application is limited to correction of a problem based upon a customer's specific complaint.
Repair Procedure

Using the applicator tip, apply grease between the intermediate shaft and grommet.

[JSM1284]

If that doesnt work, It may be this:


Steering - Clunk/Pop/Knock When Turning Steering WheelSTEERING
ST001-06
Title:
STEERING INTERMEDIATE
SHAFT NOISE
Models:
'03 - '06 Camry, '04 - '05 Highlander, & '04 - '06 Solara,
February 16, 2006
TSB REVISION NOTICE :
^July 20, 2006: 2004 - 2005 model year Highlander vehicles have been added to Applicable Vehicles. Production change effective VINs for the Highlander have been added to the Production Change Information table. The Parts Information has been updated to include the Highlander.
Previous versions of this TSB should be discarded.
Introduction

Some customers may hear a clunk, pop, or knock type noise when turning the steering wheel left or right. A new intermediate shaft has been developed to address this concern.
Applicable Vehicles
^2003 - 2006 model year Camry vehicles produced BEFORE the Production Change Effective VINs shown in this TSB.
^2004 - 2005 model year Highlander vehicles produced BEFORE the Production Change Effective VINs shown in this TSB.
^2004 - 2006 model year Solara vehicles produced BEFORE the Production Change Effective VINs shown in this TSB.

Warranty Information
Applicable Warranty*:
This repair is covered under the Toyota Comprehensive Warranty. This warranty is in effect for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle's in-service date.
*Warranty application is limited to correction of a problem based upon a customer's specific complaint.

Production Change Information

Parts Information
Repair Procedure
Prior to removing the steering intermediate shaft, make sure the steering wheel and front wheels remain stationary. Once the intermediate shaft is removed, do NOT allow the steering wheel to spin freely.
NOTE :Ensure the wheels are straight and the steering wheel is centered before removing the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly by installing a steering wheel holder.

1.Disconnect the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly.
A.Loosen the bolt and remove the clamp from the steering column hole cover boot.
B.Separate the steering column hole cover from the steering column hole cover boot.

C.Place matchmarks on the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly and steering gear assembly.
D.Remove the bolt and disconnect the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly.

2.Remove the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly.
A.Place matchmarks on the steering sliding yoke sub-assembly and steering main shaft assembly.
B.Remove the bolt and steering sliding yoke sub-assembly from the steering main shaft assembly.

3.Place the corresponding matchmarks on the NEW steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly.
To place the matchmarks on the NEW steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly, place a NEW steering intermediate shaft next to the original steering intermediate shaft assembly (removed in the previous step) and transfer those match marks to the same locations on the NEW steering intermediate shaft.

4.Install the NEW steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly.
A.Align the matchmark with the one on the steering sliding yoke sub-assembly and the steering main shaft assembly.
B.Install the steering sliding yoke sub-assembly with the bolt.
Torque: 35.3 N.m (360 kgf.cm, 26 ft.lbf)

5.Connect the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly.
A.Align the matchmarks on the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly and the steering gear assembly.
B.Install the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly with the bolt.
Torque: 35.3 N.m (360 kgf.cm, 26 ft.lbf)

C.Install the steering column hole cover to the steering hole cover boot.
D.Connect the clamp to the steering column hole cover boot and tighten the bolt.
6.Remove the steering wheel holder from the vehicle (if used).
7.Road test the vehicle to verify the repair and confirm that the steering wheel is centered.

[SIrMack]

Thank you so much.

Sounds like I should try the easy, DIY solution first, and if that still does't fix it then I can venture deeper. Toyota said that if it turns out to be a lube job it would be $50+tax minimum, something I can do for a heck of a lot cheaper to rule it out.

So is the "Repair" Just greasing it? Also, where would I get that type of grease at?

Also the last 8 of my VIN is 3U209239, so does that mean mine is indeed one of the ones that this bulletin would fall under?

I will definitely give the greasing a try though. Is it something I can easily get to by just popping the hood?

It seems though the type of noise they are describing in those issues is more of a 'groan' or 'squeak' or a 'pop' or 'clunk' while mine literally sounds like a ratchet wrench when I turn the wheel right or left at low speed. Especially evident, and loud when parking, backing in or out, or turning around in cul-de-sacs or even making U-turns. The sound I believe begins with barely 1 turn of the wheel.

Thanks! I *really* appreciate it!

[vinniemak]

GUYS...I have a 2007 CE ; Japan built ; and I have a similar problem...I have 14K on my odo ; should fall under warranty I am guessin' although haven't tried to call the dealer yet.

In my case the noise is only slight, but seems more like 3 or so clicks (sort of like ratcheting but a little lighter perhaps !!) ; and it is definitely from the right side...like your 03 SirMack....and is evident when I start slow and make a right turn, especially in a parking lot ; I grimace every time...as if the car feels the pain so do I !!!....LOL...

Please throw your suggestions my way..I'm thinkin' I'll go to the dealer, hope he doesn't give me hell..this is my first visit or a claim..but then I've got an 07 !!!

[SIrMack]

Unfortunately it seems I'm not alone.

My sound is a very rapid/fast, decently loud but slightly muffled ratchet wrench type noise that occurs when I turn the wheel at slow or near stop spees left or right. I can also feel the ratchet vibration in the steerwheel and slightly in the pedals as well when it does occur.

It actually reminds me slightly of the sound that the Emergency Brake/Hand Brake makes when you engage it.

I have the extended warranty witH Fidelity, yah, got ripped off, I know. It has a $50 deductible but they stated if its not a 'replacement part issue' that I would be billed at their typical/normal rate and have to foot the cost. Ridiculous I think.

[vinniemak]

I have an appointment in the morning, tomorrow, May 15th....will post what the dealer says....I will be B.S if he doesn't warranty it...I have an 07 Camry...it better be covered...sounds very similar to the way you described it...SirMack..will post tomorrow, May 15th after I find out. Wish me luck..LOL...

[SIrMack]

Please do let me know! I would appreciate it immensely!

I am currently out of warranty, so I want to be sure what it is before I go and have it fixed. Or if possible, do it myself.

Thanks for keeping us updated!

[JSM1284]

Have you lubed the boot yet?