squeaking steering wheel

[santacruzc156]

just a few days ago my steering wheel started to squeak when I turned it. I doesn't whine like power steering, it squeaks like vinyl rubbing on something. it doesn't start whining until after I've been driving my truck for about 10 minutes or so. I have 25,000 miles on my truck right now.

[thecarguy]

my sequoia does it. not really annoying because the stereo is usually up too loud to hear it.

[Mudog715]

Originally posted by santacruzc156
just a few days ago my steering wheel started to squeak when I turned it. I doesn't whine like power steering, it squeaks like vinyl rubbing on something. it doesn't start whining until after I've been driving my truck for about 10 minutes or so. I have 25,000 miles on my truck right now.

It's likely a bad "clock spring" -- the spiral-wound cable assembly that connects the airbag, cruise switch and horn button to the steering column wiring.

If you can demonstrate the noise to the dealer they should cover it under warranty. Also, because it is part of the airbag system if should be covered for the same term as the "restraint system warranty" (which I don't remember off-hand, but I'm pretty sure it's longer than the 3/36 bumper-to-bumper).

[santacruzc156]

actually, the squeak went away after about 2 days, it was weird.

[Mudog715]

Originally posted by santacruzc156
actually, the squeak went away after about 2 days, it was weird.

The noise is not unusual on airbag-equipped vehicles. The sound is usually from rubbing of the two plastic parts that move against each other as the wheel is turned. You will generally find it more likely to make noise 1) when it's hot out and the plastic parts expand and begin making contact or 2) when it's really cold and there is insufficient lubrication within the unit. Either way, fix is the same: replace the clock spring. It's warranty, so why not?

[albeca3]

I had the same issue. Took it in to the dealer, they replaced the clock spring or so they say and it still squeaks ugh. It didn't do it when it was new. I will see what it does in a day or two then go from there. This supid truck has been into the dealership more times than my 91 Camry. I should have kept the Camry.

[sequoiasoon]

Mine did it and and I tracked it down to to the rubber seal against the steering shaft by the firewall. I used some silicone dielectric grease that they put in all the conectors and applied inside the seal and all around where it touches with a Q-tip. 3 years later still no more squeak.