2006 Holden Commodore - Steering loose and thudding noise

VZ

MEMBER
2006 HOLDEN COMMODORE
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
59,000 MILES

I have a 2006 VZ Holden Commodore Acclaim.

The steering wheel has a lot of give (i.E. Not taut, and can be turned quite a bit before it has an effect on the wheels) and when turning at low speeds (particularly left) there is a low, repetitive thudding sound (not very loud, but noticable to the driver) coming from what sounds like the front left quadrant of the vehicle.

This sound can also be heard when travelling at speed but has a faster rhythm.

In addition, sometimes after startup, on first take-off, there is an audible knock sound which may be related however I cannot pinpoint where the sound is coming from.

My theory is that perhaps the castor and/or inner control arm bushes are worn and need replacing, certainly hoping this is not a CV joint issue.

Any thoughts as to the source of the problem would be much appreciated as I'd like to take the car into a mechanic for a check but want to make sure I have some idea of what is going on first.

1 Reply

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there,

The knock may well be a sway bar link pin bush, this is a common problem, the steering issue can be a number of things, from a worn rack, loose steering coupling, loose rack, this will need to be inspected first hand, as for the other noises, you will have to get the suspension checked as well as front wheel bearings, start here.

Mark (mhpautos)