Notices
LS - 3rd Gen (2001-2006) Discussion topics related to the flagship Lexus LS430

2001 LS430 UL Steering Column Rattle

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Jun 21, 2010 | 09:55 AM
  #1  
HiloDB1's Avatar
HiloDB1
Thread Starter
Lexus Test Driver
iTrader: (3)
 
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,063
Likes: 14
From: Hilo, Hawaii
Default 2001 LS430 UL Steering Column Rattle

I have noticed that there is a rattling sound coming from what seems to be the steering column when I am driving over bumpy surfaces. When Im on smooth road I do not hear the sound. I dont hear it when I just turn the wheel only over rough surfaces. It almost sounds like something is loose in the steering column causing the noise. Anyone else ever have this issue? Or does anyone know what it could be?
Reply
Old Jun 21, 2010 | 10:59 AM
  #2  
Vpanin's Avatar
Vpanin
Pole Position
 
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 391
Likes: 2
From: NYC
Default

Originally Posted by HiloDB1
I have noticed that there is a rattling sound coming from what seems to be the steering column when I am driving over bumpy surfaces. When Im on smooth road I do not hear the sound. I dont hear it when I just turn the wheel only over rough surfaces. It almost sounds like something is loose in the steering column causing the noise. Anyone else ever have this issue? Or does anyone know what it could be?



I have the same problem. My sound resembles a clicking sound more than anything. I dont know what it is but im assuming it might be the clockspring
Reply
Old Jun 21, 2010 | 01:02 PM
  #3  
SerasLibre's Avatar
SerasLibre
Rookie
 
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 79
Likes: 2
From: NJ
Default

I have the same problem too. Last time I posted this question nobody replied, so maybe its not common? Is there a grease fitting anywhere in the steering column?
Reply
Old Jun 21, 2010 | 01:39 PM
  #4  
HiloDB1's Avatar
HiloDB1
Thread Starter
Lexus Test Driver
iTrader: (3)
 
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,063
Likes: 14
From: Hilo, Hawaii
Default

As far as I know it doesnt sound like a click it just a rattle. Like something is loose. Its pretty annoying. Im debating taking the cover off the steering column to take a look and see what it could be.
Reply
Old Jun 21, 2010 | 04:59 PM
  #5  
CW2004LS43's Avatar
CW2004LS43
Driver School Candidate
 
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: OREGON
Default

I have the same issue. Only on certain bumps, feels like the steering column is loose or has to much play in the bearing or what ever it is sitting in. There has to be a way to tighten it.
Reply
Old Jun 21, 2010 | 05:48 PM
  #6  
HiloDB1's Avatar
HiloDB1
Thread Starter
Lexus Test Driver
iTrader: (3)
 
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,063
Likes: 14
From: Hilo, Hawaii
Default

Well when I get a chance Ill take it apart and see if there is anything I can do. If its something simple I will report back and hopefully have pics and a write up.
Reply
Old Jun 21, 2010 | 10:57 PM
  #7  
Vpanin's Avatar
Vpanin
Pole Position
 
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 391
Likes: 2
From: NYC
Default

im going to take my cover off too.....
Reply
Old Jun 22, 2010 | 04:51 PM
  #8  
440+6's Avatar
440+6
Rookie
 
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 59
Likes: 1
From: MA
Default

Edit: I have a copy of the service bulletin, PM me for details

Last edited by 440+6; Jun 22, 2010 at 04:58 PM. Reason: I have the SB
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2010 | 12:44 PM
  #9  
CW2004LS43's Avatar
CW2004LS43
Driver School Candidate
 
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: OREGON
Default

Did anyone ever figure this out? Mine is very annoying.

Thanks.
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2010 | 12:51 PM
  #10  
HiloDB1's Avatar
HiloDB1
Thread Starter
Lexus Test Driver
iTrader: (3)
 
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,063
Likes: 14
From: Hilo, Hawaii
Default

Never got around to taking off the cover. I got the TSB from 440+6 and dont feel comfortable trying the repair myself. I will probably end up taking it to the dealer to have the TSB done. I was quoted roughly $300 to do the TSB parts + labor. Im not sure if that will even fix the issue.
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2010 | 01:30 PM
  #11  
DDLexus's Avatar
DDLexus
Racer
20 Year Member
Photogenic
Photoriffic
Liked
 
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 1,262
Likes: 34
From: Alabama
Default

Originally Posted by CW2004LS43
Did anyone ever figure this out? Mine is very annoying.

Thanks.
i have an extra steering column laying around... here's a photo
Attached Thumbnails 2001 LS430 UL Steering Column Rattle-img_1497_small.jpg  
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2010 | 03:51 PM
  #12  
JimsGX's Avatar
JimsGX
Lexus Test Driver
 
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,265
Likes: 9
From: MA
Default

It looks like something out of Terminator II!
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2010 | 11:43 PM
  #13  
Vpanin's Avatar
Vpanin
Pole Position
 
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 391
Likes: 2
From: NYC
Default

I just had the Lower universal joint replaced under warranty and that fixed my clicking and rattling. The problem is that other noises popped up shortly after. I dont even know if i want anyone work on my steering rack again. The techs always stretch the leather on the seat with their knees.
Reply
Old Oct 5, 2010 | 11:46 PM
  #14  
Vpanin's Avatar
Vpanin
Pole Position
 
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 391
Likes: 2
From: NYC
Default

DDlexus what are you doing with an extra steering rack ????lol
Reply
Old Oct 6, 2010 | 06:28 AM
  #15  
DDLexus's Avatar
DDLexus
Racer
20 Year Member
Photogenic
Photoriffic
Liked
 
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 1,262
Likes: 34
From: Alabama
Default

Originally Posted by Vpanin
DDlexus what are you doing with an extra steering rack ????lol
Ha! My telescoping motor went bad, so I bought the whole steering column from a "recycle parts dealer". I found that it was cheaper to buy from a wrecking yard than buy a new part from the dealer. I'll probably list the rack on eBay eventually, for now it sits in the garage
Reply



All times are GMT -7. The time now is 07:56 AM.