I have a 2003 Suburban LS 1500 4-wheel drive, all stock, no modifications, with approximately 70k miles on it. I have recently developed a squeak/groan when I turn the steering wheel. I've sprayed the knuckle under the dash where the noise seems to be coming from, and took a look under the hood where the steering shaft comes through the firewall. The noise also seems to be coming from there, but as sound travels, I can't readily determine if the noise is originating from the inside or under the hood.

Any ideas what this might be, and how to resolve.

Thank you, Richard

Photo #1 is under the hood / photo #2 is under the dash.

Video Link with Audio

 

Does it groan when turning the wheels while not moving or when at rest and just applying pressure to the steering wheel but not actually turning the wheels?

Might have someone turn the wheels while you listen under the hood if this happens while not moving.

I suspect the PS pump or rack.

 

The noise occurs by turning the steering wheel the slightest of movement, and you don't have to actually turn the front wheels to make the noise, though of course it makes that noise when driving it. For example, it is really noticeable when you turn the wheel to back out of my driveway and cranking the wheel. I'm pretty sure it's not related to the power steering. The noise almost sounds like metal on plastic that's rubbing. The audio on the video is very clear and you can see that I don't have to move the steering wheel much to make the noise.

 

Audio didn't play very well for me. Sounded like a short burst from a machine gun.

Can you put the video directly on the forum site?

 

Sound is pretty accurate in the video, though the camera was a lot closer than normal listening levels as a driver.

I'm not sure how to post a video to a forum...

 

Can you put your video on YouTube and then just attach the link to the posting?

 

YouTube Link: 2003 Chevrolet Suburban Steering Groan - YouTube

 

I can hear it very good with that link. I agree with your assessment that it sounds like something plastic rubbing on something. Have you tried turning the wheel without the engine running?

 

Yes. In the video, the engine is not running...

 

Might try using a small rubber hose like a stethoscope to listen in small areas to try to isolate the source of the sound.