2004 Grand Prix Noises

[jonGPGT04]

I have a 2004 Grand Prix. 3.8L V6. There is a loud clicking noise when I turn the steering wheel. I have talked to a pontiac dealership several times. They have replaced the steering rack, tightened bolts, and even tried putting spacers on some bolts. The service manager keeps telling me that the pontiac engineers are working on a solution and that there is nothing that they can do now, but it is safe to drive. The service manager explained the problem as "The noise occurs where the aluminum allow frame connects with the aluminum alloy steering rack." I don't now anything about this stuff, is that even accurate?

There is also a noise around the wheels when I hit bumps. Sometimes a hiss, sometimes rattling. The service tech told me that he looked at the entire suspension and brakes and could not find any problem, eventhough he can reproduce the noise.

Has anyone else come across these issues? Is this a wide spread problem with the 04's? Anyone find solutions? The noises are really annoying and I wonder if they would hurt any future resale value.

Thanks,
Jon

[onstar]

yes, i believe it is a wide spread problem. I read some where else about a recall for this.

[bgcorvette]

I have the same problem with my '04 gt-1. Have had the dealer install bushings on the rack and pinion, only helped for a few days, then the clicking-popping noise returned.

There is a service bulletin on the intermediate steering shaft, but to my knowledge no recall as of yet.

When the intermediate shaft makes a clunking sound, believe me, you'll know it. The steering wheel feels like it is giong to fall off.

I did have a recall on the gas pedal "drive by wire" assembly, but the recall fixed the problem of the gas pedal sticking.

I guess just live with the clicking in the rack, mine has almost 40,000 miles on it and is out of warranty. Good luck!

[Eagle_Eye]

there is a recall. found out when s "steering brace?" broke and sliced my oil filter in half... messy...good thing i was not on highway...any way, the creaking stopped when they fixed it. i will try to get you the recall number from my service invoice tomorrow.

[BigPanch]

Yeah i have the same problem. and it doesnt do it every time i turn only when i have been speeding and then drive normaly and i do a turn it makes that noise.

[gtp_80]

I have an 04 gtp and about a week ago my car started making a whinning sound when its cold. the whinning sound gets worse when i turn but when driven for awhile it goes away. i think it is the power steering pump, i still have to take it to the dealer to be sure. I also have the same problem when going over pumps. its a small hiss sound but not real bad. Im more concerned about the whinning.