Steering gives when turning

[marietta]

I have a 1999 tahoe with 103,000 miles on it. Ocasionally, when I turn, the steering wheel "gives" and feels like it is "free" for a moment. It returns to normal almost immediately, but it is discomforting and too much of a correction could be dangerous. Any suggestions? I was told at a parts store it could be the steering gear, or ball joints. Can I replace? Is it difficult or expensive to fix?

[GMMerlin]

Your truck is equipped with EVO..Electronic Variable steering....there is a steering wheel position sensor that sometimes gives false readings and changes the effort rate in the system.
Most likely the sensor will have to be replaced...I would highly recommend letting the dealer handle this repair.

[tahoecar]

This is a common condition for Tahoes with higher mileage. I have a 99 Tahoe and replace the sensor myself. I'm a quasi-novice. Cost of the sensor is approx $50.

[BOOZER]

Not only tahoe but the C/K series uses the E.V.O.
system from I think '97 & up.
ELECTRONICALLY- VARIABLE- ORFICE
I'm not sure if cataloges have been updated, but there was a replacement sensor & an updated kit from the T.S.B. for this condition, be advised.

[tahoecar]

Boozer is on point about the TSB. I used GM part No. 26081626 which is actually a kit that contains both the sensor and it's protective shield. Looking back, I probably could have saved a few dollars; my old shield was fine - it's not a wearing part - and GM sells the sensor separately.

At the end of 2002, the kit listed for $72.51. GMPartsDirect.com offered the kit for $54.38 (pre-shipping cost). I used this as leverage to get the same low price from a local Chevrolet dealer.

The sudden steering pressure release is a dangerous condition. It seems to occur at the worst possible time - i.e. coming off a curved expressway exit ramp. I would recommend a speedy fix. IMHO.

[JFENOGLIO]

I am having this same problem with my Tahoe and finally figured out that the steering position sensor is the culprit. I purchaced the part but I need to know how to index it for installation, and if there are any adjustments to do after installation.

[tahoecar]

Not sure what you mean by "index". My sensor was ready for installation, as purchased. It's design locks it into a single position in a sleeve that encircles the steering column.

Installation is pretty straight forward. For a 99 Tahoe, a single bolt (located inside the cab) attaches the upper steering column shaft to the lower steering column shaft. All that remains is the snap-in electrical connector. Unplugging the original connector is a little aggravating, because it is wrapped with a tacky foam protection.

[JFENOGLIO]

the sensor is positioned by the location of the wires, and will only fit one way, but the other side that sides up the column will turn 360 degrees. How do I know which way to turn that part to make the sensor function correctly

[beachman76]

I just changed my position sensor today. The dealer wanted to charge me $160 for the part and labor so I told him to stick it and I got the part from another dealer for $60 and put it in myself. I'm not very mechanically inclined but it only took me about 30 minutes to do and I saved 100 bucks.

[corduroy27613]

Originally Posted by beachman76

I just changed my position sensor today. The dealer wanted to charge me $160 for the part and labor so I told him to stick it and I got the part from another dealer for $60 and put it in myself. I'm not very mechanically inclined but it only took me about 30 minutes to do and I saved 100 bucks.

I have the same problem (amongst others!) with my 2000 Tahoe with 51000 miles. Once I get my engine problems fixed, I am going to replace this sensor. Did you simply following the instructions here, or did you use a manaul.

Can someone suggest a good repair manual for a 2000 Tahoe?

Thanks