XC90 - steering column noise/grinding

[mikey81]

Hi,

I would really appreciate some help with the problem I've got with my 2006 XC90.

I have noticed that there is a grinding with a bit of squeaking noise coming from the steering column while turning left or right at low speed or while stationary. It is mainly present when turning the steering wheel slowly either left or right. The steering wheel feels like it is rubbing against something.

I took the car to the Volvo in Chiswick who said that they inspected the steering column and wheel bearings and said there was no sign of wear and tear. They said they have lubricated the steering column however I cannot verify how thorough job they did. They also said that next step would be to spend £930 to replace steering column.

I have taken off the rubber bit that covers the hole where the steering column goes through the firewall. I have sprayed WD40 onto the u-joint which I think solved the problem for about 5 days, then when the problem returned I applied grease onto the u joint and lastly sprayed 3-in-1 lithium grease extensively on the joint. I have also lubricated the plastic bit where the rubber meets the steering column.

I have now noticed that the rubbing/groaning/squeaking is only present when the car is cold. After few minutes of driving, when the car warms up the problem seems to go away. I am now wondering whether this is due to the grease becoming more liquid after warming up? Could this be the case?

I am now beginning to think there might be something wrong with the power steering. Fluid levels are fine.

I would really appreciate any opinions on this one.

Thanks,
Mike

[mikey81]

Anyone??

Can someone recommend any indy Volvo garages in West London area?

[Uselesshippy]

Hi,
Had something similar myself, did a bit of digging and found out there,s a plastic bush round the steering column that gets dust and crap in over time. Take it out clean it, then put some silicone grease on it then reinstall sound should go then. Not a big job and really cheap.

[mikey81]

Hi,

Thank you very much for your suggestion. I have sprayed crazy amount of silicone grease onto both the u-joint as well as the plastic ring/rubber cover that covers the firewall opening. None of this helped unfortunately.

Today I have noticed that there is a tiny leak from the power steering hose. It isnt big or anything but I was wondering if this could be causing the problem?

Anyone could shed some light on this?

Thanks,
Mike

[A lex]

WD-40 is a water dispersant, not a lubricant.

Try lubricating again with silicone or lithium grease.

[mikey81]

i have used white lithium grease which didnt make any difference.

i actually think that all squeaking/ grinding is caused by tiny leak on the power steering hose. maybe air gets somewhere which causes these problems.

[BigAl5]

Mikey did you ever find the source of the problem?

[bobdabuilda]

Any update on this Mikey?

[BestGear]

Originally Posted by Uselesshippy

Hi,
Had something similar myself, did a bit of digging and found out there,s a plastic bush round the steering column that gets dust and crap in over time. Take it out clean it, then put some silicone grease on it then reinstall sound should go then. Not a big job and really cheap.

Could you provide any pictures or more details on this job?

[Kardo]

my 2005 executive steering column make squeaking noise and becomes stiff while doing parking maneuvers(mix of reversing and moving forward).
can anyone shed some light on this issue ?