Whenever I turn off my '04, the steering wheel creaks when raising automatically to the up position.

Has anyone else experienced that? If so, is it something I can handle myself, or do the guys in the tuxedos at Lexus have to lubricate it somehow ?

Not a big deal, but it's really annoying (not to mention "unLexus-like).

 

I get that once is a while. Mostly cold mornings.

 

I have that issue as well. Haven't felt the need to do anything about it yet. Will follow this thread with interest!

 

Just took my '04 LS430 into the dealer for the same issue. They repaired it under warrenty. The service manager told me they had received a service Bulletin on the issue.

 

Took my '04 to Lexus today regarding creaking noise when steering wheel raises and lowers while turning key on/off. They performed TSB on that very problem (which was mentioned on this forum in 2004).

It includes installing a part ( part #45767-50010), and was done quickly.

STEERING COLUMN NOISE - ST001-04
Number: ST001-04
Bulletin Date: 1/7/2004
Applicable VIN Range: ’02 – ’04 LS 430 JTHBN30F#20059627 to JTHBN36F040141419
Summary: Some LS 400 and LS 430 vehicles may experience steering column noise due to insufficient torsional strength of the telescopic steering column cable. The cable has been replaced with a universal joint to prevent steering column noise.

 

Great news. Thank you for the info guys.

 

I have a groan type noise in my steering when the column retracts inward. It is not that annoying, but I am interested on fixing concern. Does the bulletin extend to 01 or is it for 02-04 and for a squeak only. If not, has anyone had this concern and has had it repaired? Whats the fix and how much?

 

It very well could include '01s. I say that because while it gives a VIN range from 02 - 04, it mentions that some "LS400"s (as well as 430s) might have the problem

 

Roughly how much to repair?

 

My paperwork shows it took 0.90 Hours @ 105.00/hr labor rate, plus the cost of the part, which was not shown on the paperwork. The paperwork shows they used "revised part #45230-50020 Joint Assy. Steering".

Whole fix was at no cost to me, as it was warranty work.

Using the labor time/rate shown above, it should cost $94.50 + cost of part - in my neck of the woods (NJ), that is.

Walt

 

Well the labor charge is nothing considering, but the parts is what scares me. Hopefully it is not "Lexus" expensive. Thanks for the info.

 

A lexus mechanic quote was $160 for this fix.

 

Just took my car in today for this issue. They couldn't find the noise but saw the service bulletin so they are ordering the part and installing it free

For those who are in Washington state, if you haven't already, you have to check out the new state of the art Lexus of Bellevue. It is the largest dealership in the US I believe. It's like a freakin' luxury hotel. 4 levels, plasma and LCD tv's everywhere, putting green next to the Cafe.

 

My 02 LS430 Vin Number lies in the range mentioned for TSB, Does that mean the dealer fix will be free of charge?

 

does anyone hear small steering column vibration nosie when you drive. It only happens once in awhile, so I can't get it fixed at the dealer, because it's not there all the time. can you guys think of any quick fix? sorry to get off the subject a little bit...