The Steering Shaft Problem...

[RBaptist]

I now have it...the clunking at high speeds, the loose steering wheel...etc.

I have a 2005 LE. I've been searching and have seen a bunch of posts about it, but is there a good detailed write up anywhere on the replacement? I found a site that had the write up a few weeks back, but it seems to have been pulled....so I am flying blind. I read that I could really screw up the steering controls and airbags if I don't follow the TSB exactly...so I want to make sure.

Dealer wants $550 for replacement. ....

If anyone has the TSB and install instructions I would definitely appreciate the assistance! Pics would be incredible! Seems like this one would make a good sticky.

Thank you!
Robert

[islandboy57]

I don't think I've seen a write up for the steering intermediate shaft TSB yet. Rather than replacement, the latest TSB (as of 9/2008) says to use the grease kit and labor is estimated at 1.1 hours. I replaced my steering intermediate shaft 2/2008 and the problem is coming back. They cut me a small break on the replacement so I think I paid closer to $400-450 when I replaced it.

I talked to the dealer the other day to let them know that the problem is coming back and to my surprise, they offered to cover it for me. I forget where but someone estimated the prices for the grease kit to be $22 and the labor to be $200 if you're not doing it yourself.

I'm glad this isn't a safety issue, but it sure is annoying. I just hope this latest fix lasts until I get rid of the car