Noise when turning

[amanda_easternon]

I have an 01 Montana extened van (144k) and when I'm turning slowly (ex. when parking) I can hear noise that has quickly gotten louder. It sounds almost like metal rubbing on metal.

I brought it in to a dealership today and they said that the tie rod ends are going and the power steering rack needs to be replaced. Does this sound right? They said it will cost around $1200 to fix it but my dad said he could do the tie rod ends.

My dad also suggested that I take in somewhere else to get it checked. I don't really know if I want to shell out more money for another estimate if it's not really necessary.

Does anyone have any insight?

Also, I've been rear-ended 3 times and took the ditch once with the van. The noise started not long after I got rear-ended the last time. Could this have anything to do with it? If so, how could I prove it so that insurance would cover it?

TIA,
Amanda

[GregA]

Originally Posted by amanda_easternon

I have an 01 Montana extened van (144k) and when I'm turning slowly (ex. when parking) I can hear noise that has quickly gotten louder. It sounds almost like metal rubbing on metal.

I brought it in to a dealership today and they said that the tie rod ends are going and the power steering rack needs to be replaced. Does this sound right? They said it will cost around $1200 to fix it but my dad said he could do the tie rod ends.

My dad also suggested that I take in somewhere else to get it checked. I don't really know if I want to shell out more money for another estimate if it's not really necessary.

Does anyone have any insight?

Also, I've been rear-ended 3 times and took the ditch once with the van. The noise started not long after I got rear-ended the last time. Could this have anything to do with it? If so, how could I prove it so that insurance would cover it?

TIA,
Amanda

Hi Amanda -- Welcome to the forum!
I would have to agree with your Dad. Let him check or change the tie-rod ends and inspect it at the same time.

Then if needed, take it somewhere else to have it looked at. The dealership may be OK if you know them well and have been taking it there for all your previous service, but it sounds like they are trying to make some money from you. Unless you had a FRONT end collision, your steering rack probably does NOT need to be replaced.

But I am not there to verify what the problem is or listen to the noise.

When trying to find another shop, ask EVERYONE you know for recommendations. And don't be afraid to ask them what they think without being charged. Smaller shops will often take a few minutes to take a short ride around the block to "hear the noise" and then quickly look around to see what they can do for you.

I found one local shop near me after they were recommended by a few friends. They have treated me right (with respect & honesty) for several years now. Any issue with my cars, I take it to them.

I didn't mean to be this long-winded, but I hope this helps. And trust your Dad! Most dads give pretty good advice, even about cars.

Take Care,

[cdru]

Tie rod ends, bearing, or cv joint(s) would be usual suspects. I agree with Greg, take it to another shop and get a 2nd opinion. $1200 is too much to pay to let the dealership play Guess What's Wrong.

[keith32]

I did Tie rod ends at 115K, i can't believe they needed doing. check the wheel bearing, they are a common problem on these vehicles.

[amanda_easternon]

Thanks everyone. I'm going to take it to the garage where my cousin works. It's a bit of a drive from here but at least I'll know I'm getting good service.

Amanda