steering and suspension Steering Column Squeak

[gastephens]

I occasionally get a short high-pitched squeak when I turn the steering wheel. It sounds like it is inside the car somewhere in the column. The steering is smooth and accurate with no slop. I don't think the noise is coming from the steering box, steering arm, or upper strut mount. 

 

What is the best way to lubricate the steering column?

[Emyers]

Had a squeak once from that area, turned out the round contact ring for the horn behind the steering wheel was completely devoid of lubrication.  The contact nub for the horn that resided in the steering wheel boss was dragging on the contact and would cause the noise.  A smear of grease on the contact ring took care on the problem.  Just a thought.

Earl

[Mike Self]

You might also check where the column passes through the firewall on the engine side...IIRC there's a sleeve there that's mounted in a metal ring; if the ring has slipped loose it can rub the steering shaft itself.  Also check the turn signal and dimmer switch area for something out of adjustment that's touching the shaft itself.

 

mike