What does the intermediate steering shaft connect to?
The steering intermediate shaft connects the steering wheel to the steering gearbox, or steering rack. The intermediate shaft has a universal joint at each end, which allows for the angle between the steering shaft and the steering gear.
How do you diagnose a bad intermediate steering shaft?
Here are the symptoms of a bad intermediate steering shaft.
- Grinding Sounds When Turning the Wheel. Audible noises in your vehicle that don’t sound normal indicate a problem.
- Steering Tilt Doesn’t Work. The best feature of the steering wheel is the tilt.
- Wheel Turns Roughly.
- Steering Wheel Doesn’t Return to Center.
What causes a steering shaft to go bad?
The most common cause of a bad steering shaft is a broken seal, which causes the grease on needle bearings to dry up. This condition allows moisture to penetrate the bearings causing corrosion and rusting. As a result, the bearings fail to function, which in turn damages the steering shaft.
How do you know if you need a new steering shaft?
Here’s what to look for when you suspect the steering shaft is failing:
- Turning precision and smoothness.
- Premature shaft bearing wear.
- Feel of the steering wheel.
- Concerning sounds while steering.
- Steering wheel misalignment.
What are the signs of a bad intermediate shaft?
5 Symptoms of a Bad Intermediate Steering Shaft (and Replacement Cost)
- #1 – Turning Difficulties.
- #2 – Strange Noises When on the Road.
- #3 – Loose Tilting of the Steering Wheel.
- #4 – Needle Bearings Corrosion.
- #5 – Irregular Steering Wheel Positioning.
What happens when steering shaft goes bad?
The damage may cause the steering to feel stiff or loose and make it difficult to turn the wheel. In some cases, the car may not be able to turn at all. In other cases, the car may turn but not as smoothly as it should. A bad intermediate steering shaft can also cause the car to pull to one side when turning.
How much does it cost to fix power steering in a 2006 Pontiac G6?
| Car | Service | Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 Pontiac G6V6-3.9L | Service typePower Steering Pump Replacement | Estimate$428.03 |
| 2010 Pontiac G6L4-2.4L | Service typePower Steering Pump Replacement | Estimate$520.65 |
| 2009 Pontiac G6V6-3.9L | Service typePower Steering Pump Replacement | Estimate$434.53 |
What are the symptoms of a bad intermediate shaft?
When should I replace my intermediate shaft?
Because the intermediate shaft has to expand and contract when rotated, lack of grease may cause light clunk or pop type noises when turning the steering wheel. If there are no other issues, lubricating the intermediate shaft splines may solve the problem. If not, the intermediate shaft must be replaced.
Can you drive with a bad intermediate shaft?
This shaft has two joints (one on each end) to support the angle between the shaft and the gear facilitating the smooth turning of the car’s wheels. This functionality means that when this vital component develops issues, driving your car could put you and your passengers at risk.