Steering Column Repair: Squeak in Steering Column, toyota camry, slipping my mind

Question
Hi Douglas
2003 Toyota Camry LE 4 cyl. Can I squirt WD40 inside st column without damage? Have loud squeak/groan when turn st wheel left or right. Only in winter. After interior heats up, squeak improves, sometimes goes away, but not every time. Is definitely not a power steering noise; noise is btw instrument panel and st wheel. Never does it in summer. EXTREMELY irritating. Any idea what causes it? Thanks so much. Don

Answer
Hi Don:

Thanks for asking this question.  My wife has a 2003 Lexus that does the same thing.  I have been meaning to take care of it, but it keeps slipping my mind.  i just took care of it.
The cure for this symptom is very simple.
You won't believe me until you actually try it and it fixes it, but this is what it is and what you need to do.
The squeeking is transmitting up into the column, but it is really on the floor where the boot and shaft touch.  The cold makes the boot harder and causes the squeek.

With a can of penetrating oil in hand (WD40 is fine, but it may not last as long), open the door, start the car and spray the rubber boot where the steering shaft goes through the floor.  While you spray it, turn the wheel to see the exact location of the movement.  Then, with your finger, move the boot up and down on the shaft where you just sprayed.  That should take care of it and the noise should stop as soon as you finish.


Good luck
Doug