jenjohn06

About a month ago, my 2010 RX 350 that has 60000 miles started making a creaking noise whenever the steering wheel turned. My steering column has exhibited the squeaking noise that most of these RX models do since I bought it and is oiled every time I bring it in for service. This creaking is much louder and very annoying. The service provider told me they did not know what was wrong and the only solution was to replace the whole steering column, which was a $2500 part. Has anyone heard of the creaking sound before and have any suggestions? I have a total lemon and have already had all the suspensions replaced. Thank you for your help.

Mors

is it just a simple high pitched squeak on occasion or is it a constant creak with every move (like a door creaking)?
I ask because if it's a high pitched squeak, it's probably just that the bottom of the steering column where it goes through the floor just needs greased/lubed, but if they can't find a solution, it's probably not that. Creaking could be caused by ball joints or maybe control arms. Other more experienced people should chime in soon with suggestions though.

jenjohn06

It is constant with every move. The high pitched one also happens but I get that greased at every service.

RXSF

There is a TSB on this issue. The fix is to replace the steering column.

l-sb-0026-11-10-11-rx350-steering-column-rattle-noise.pdf

jenjohn06

Thank you that is very helpful. Quick question as far as getting this fixed... I already received a quote for a new steering column (about $2500). I have had to have both back suspensions replaced because of defect, roofbars replaced because of defect, and have dealt with the high pitched squeak from the steering wheel. I am at 47 months but 60k miles so my warrenty expired. Do you think there is a way to get them to fix this since so much has gone wrong with the car? Or is it just going to be one of those things I'll have to pay for. Wondering how to move forward.

oohpapi44

iTrader: (1)

That TSB is for a rattle (vs a squeak) so pretty sure it wouldn't be applicable to your situation.

The first thing to do before anything is is to have the squeak property diagnosed.

As was stated, it doesn't have to be related ot the steering column and could be a signal of a problem elsewhere in the front suspenstion. Could be ball joints, control arms or even wheel bearing related. So spending (and yes you will be the one spending) $2,500 could be a waste of money.

Suggest you not go to Lexus since you're not under warranty, find a reputable mechanice and have them diagnose the issue.

If the problem doesn't call for an immediate fix, order your replacement parts from Rockauto.com and then bring car and parts to mechanic for replacement. It's the most economical way (besides doing it yourself) to handle a fix.

RickC5

Creaking steering columns are a common problem/issue with Lexus. Our 2008 ES350 creaked when cold, but stopped creaking when warm, so I never bothered with it. The ES350 forums had several threads with people complaining about the same thing.

Personally, I would not bother fixing it, and would shop around for a new car. Good luck!

SteveCraig

Steering columns can be a very complicated piece of equipment. Solid shaft down the centre which is directly connected to the steering components under the car. Usually 1 or 2 hollow shells around the shaft that contain wiring, switches, etc.. On the outside of all this is the outer housing, the plastic pieces you can see.
My bet is a bearing or guide deep within the assembly has dried up. A simple oiling would fix the issue but the problem lies in accessing it. Quicker to remove/replace as a column tear-down & re-assemble would be labour intensive.

http://lexus.sewellparts.com/oem-cat...X350-2010.html

RXSF

My car is currently in for the same issue, except it only happens when the signal is turned on....they are still investigating. I will let you know how they fix it but I suggested to them to replace the steering column per this TSB even though it wasn't an exact fit to description. I would equate rattle with creaking. Anyways, at first they thought they were going to replace the clock spring which is the winding mechanism.

DarylS2001

So I have had issues with my steering column creaking/squeaking/moaning whatever you want to call it ...took forever to replicate while it was actually at the dealer and even then didn't replicate until I was on my way home from dealer and immediately took it back to have it fixed ... I still have the rattle over rough surfaces but of course they say they don't hear it. Has anyone had the steering column replaced and if so did the rattling stop?