Steering Column Repair: Steering clunking on 2001 Chevrolet Impala, chevrolet impala, intermediate shaft

Question
What could be causing this reocurring problem? I have had it looked at under warranty twice, now it has happened again. A clunking noise, which is louder when turning at slow speeds.The first two dealer repairs were replacing the intermediate steering shaft lubricant and replaced throttle body nuts and secondly tilt housing bolts loose.  I don't think the real issue has ever been taken care of. Also, I noticed vibrations in my brakes.  Also, a vibration when accelerating from 35 mph to 70 mph.  Is this a hydraulic leak in the steering? I have replaced my tires and keep them rotated and balanced. Brakes rotors all replaced and now since this steering problem has started again I am having brake vibration and loose steering. What do I need to consider?

Answer
I am assuming the dealership did not replace the intermediate shaft and only lubricated it. This is the most typical "cure" for the problem you describe. It simply was a temporary fix. The long term fix would have been to replace the intermediate shaft completely although it is hard to say if there were any improvements on the new replacement shaft. This seems to be a recurring problem to many GM cars and trucks. Sometimes simply greasing the intermediate shaft will cure the problem for years and sometimes not so long. I would suggest taking it back to the dealer and letting them know the problem is still there.

A vibration as you describe could come from several sources. The 35-70mph vibration sounds to me like a bearing (either L or R front hub assy) could be going bad. You would be able to hear the hum or growling coming from the front as well as vibration. Of course it could also mean a tire balance problem too. Have the balance checked on the tires. The transmission could also be failing to properly engage gears giving it a shudder type of vibration. Lastly a driveshaft and or u-joint could be going out.

If anything, take the mechanic on a short drive and show them exactly what you feel. All cars feel different and the owner knows how their car should feel. It might help them to think outside of the box if you do.

Hope that helps. Let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Have a great day!
-Jay