Squeaking Steering Column
 

My 2000 ML 320 has developed a squeak in the steering column. (It squeaks constantly when I turn the wheel. Sometimes a dual note of two or more tones at the same time) . I can also feel a vibration in the steering wheel itself, which must be being transmitted up by the friction.

I took it to the dealer a few months back, and they "lubricated" it and the squeak went away for a very short time.

I took it back in, and now they say that it needs a new steering column, which is not covered by Starmark Warranty. They say that the steering column is incased in a sleeve, and there is no way to get anymore lubricant in. The only option is to replace the steering column to the tune of slightly less than $700.

Has anybody heard of this, or had this problem?? It seems a little extreme to me.

Thanks,
George

I have nevr heard of it, and I would ask them if the column is in a "sleeve" , how was it that they lubricated it before, or did they just make that up last time?

There is some place (behind the steering wheel I think) that is "packed with white grease" and there is no way to get any more into it. So I guess the squeak is originating from down inside the sleeve.

It is amazing how something this simple and yet annoying is making me think about trading.....

George

Hi george :)
I think, it could be the shock absorber mounting brushings is dry which needs to lubricate.

have you checked your power steering fluid level & the power steering pump?

Good luck !

Mine does the same thing. It is a set of O-rings that are designed to keep water out of the collumn when you go treking through deep water.

... seriously.

Unlickily - sometimes they tend to make noise.

-Joe

Thanks Joe!

So, there is not a fix? Does it go away after a while? Any further information?

George d