Steering Column Repair: Stiff power steering ( electric ) pontiac G5 2005, chevrolet gmc, pontiac g5

Question
Dear Douglas Gan,

I'm happy to have found a power steering specialist.

I have this problem for a year now, the mileage is 100K.
The steering column has been replaced, but the steering is noticeably stiff, ( not like the power steering is completely out, but maybe half way#. I should mention that everything else on the car is fine after a full checkup at GM, no noise coming from the steering column. Nonetheless, the car is a hassle to steer. Today I noticed that this problem is not there, but I'm afraid it will be back. Why is it ok on this day of the year? Maybe because its warm outside?

I don't even know where to start looking to find a fix, GM doesn't notice this problem and says everything is fine.

There is a recall on this car # cobalt like) for faulty power steering, and they will change the power steering motor, I hope this will fix the problem, but my power steering has never completely failed, so according to my GM garage my power steering is fine.

What could it be?
Big Thanks
Artur

PS : My car is also a bit shaky only when its in a still position, what could this be? I can feel vibration through my seat.

Answer
Hi Artur:

The recall on your vehicle and the Cobalt is for a bad power assist motor built into the steering column.  this is a new design (Toyota built, I believe) and they are having lots of trouble with it.  We typically, just replace the entire column with a good used one.
That's about all I can offer you.  It's very hard to diagnose an intermittent problem when I actually have the car.  It;s next to impossible to do it over the internet.
I would suggest you try another GM dealer...any one will do, Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, or even better yet, a good reliable independent shop in your area and have them drive it WITH you.

Good luck
Doug