About Jay Cooney Expertise I can answer any question about any GM steering column with my having over 30 years of GM experience. I will answer general questions on any other steering column manufactured by the major automakers. I will do what I can to help troubleshoot and repair a steering column.
Experience I have over 30 years experience in auto repair. I have repaired or rebuilt thousands of vehicles. My expertise is general and mechanical (gas and diesel) troubleshooting along with a vast electrical background. I have accumulated an extensive library of repair manuals and have researched every car problem from AMC's to Z-71's.
Expert: Jay Cooney Date: 10/12/2006 Subject: `98 GMC Yukon steering surges in cold weather
Question I own a 1998 GMC Yukon 4x4, with about 148k miles on it. I live in North East Wisconsin. The steering wheel will "break loose" or become very easy to turn when driving at highway speed and navigating a slight to moderate curve in the road. The problem started last winter and I quickly noticed the outside air temperature has some effect, below 46 degrees. The shop was unable to recreate the problem yet it happens regularly. It stop acting up all summer and now that the temp is falling it's happening again. Also the wipers will not start working without a helping hand from time to time. Any ideas with these two situations? Thanks
Answer Hello Donn,
You have a common problem many in the colder climates experience. I would be willing to bet the steering speed sensor is having an intermittant connection problem. I would first check the connector on the wires. With this sensor so close to the road conditions, the wires are very likely corroded from the road treatments that get splashed on them during colder months. If you do find a connection problem, replace the connection. It's also wise to go ahead and replace the steering sensor if any corrosion is apparent.
I hope that helps.
Have a great day!
-Jay
