CRACKLE and BIND in steering, 2010 RX350
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So many of us have complained for years about the moaning of the steering (especially in warm weather) and the rattling from the steering column on rough roads.
I have yet another problem, which is much more of a loud CRACKLING noise when turning in the car - it feels brittle and dry and loud. After reading every thread with the word "steering" in it, I think I may have found my problem: the intermediate U-Joint. One poster notes that this is a known problem, and the binding is what indicates it's a U-Joint issue.
I had taken it in to the local mechanic I've been using for several years - they checked it out, called their Lexus dealership where they have contacts - and tell me it will be FOUR THOUSAND DOLLARS to fix it.
I did complain about the moaning sound early on - and a quick greasing of the boot seemed to take care of it for awhile. I am clear they won't handle this under warranty. Has anyone had any luck talking to Lexus Corporate - say, offering to pay the labor if they pay for the parts? - when you're no longer a regular client of the dealership?
Has anyone else gotten a diagnosis of a U-Joint failure, and fixed it? Any insights on costs or parts required?
TIA.
Sandi
I have yet another problem, which is much more of a loud CRACKLING noise when turning in the car - it feels brittle and dry and loud. After reading every thread with the word "steering" in it, I think I may have found my problem: the intermediate U-Joint. One poster notes that this is a known problem, and the binding is what indicates it's a U-Joint issue.
I had taken it in to the local mechanic I've been using for several years - they checked it out, called their Lexus dealership where they have contacts - and tell me it will be FOUR THOUSAND DOLLARS to fix it.
I did complain about the moaning sound early on - and a quick greasing of the boot seemed to take care of it for awhile. I am clear they won't handle this under warranty. Has anyone had any luck talking to Lexus Corporate - say, offering to pay the labor if they pay for the parts? - when you're no longer a regular client of the dealership?
Has anyone else gotten a diagnosis of a U-Joint failure, and fixed it? Any insights on costs or parts required?
TIA.
Sandi
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This is from the Highlander forum which has a similar clunk issue with the intermediate steering shaft http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/12...-steering.html
This is their thread on how to replace it
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/12...placement.html
Can they not just keep greasing the U joint?
This is their thread on how to replace it
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/12...placement.html
Can they not just keep greasing the U joint?
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Sandi_k (01-30-18)
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caddyowner
LS - 3rd Gen (2001-2006)
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05-05-10 05:16 AM