Rattle in the steering wheel

ZIKOBISHI

MEMBER
1998 MITSUBISHI MONTERO
110,000 MILES

There seems to be something loose inside the steering column of my 1998 Mitsubishi Montero 3.5L, 4x4, so that when I drive over a bump it both feels and sounds like something is loose in the steering wheel. The dealer said it is coming from inside the SRS assembly but it is not dangerous nor anything is malfunctioning.

I need to fix this so it rattling or go crazy.

Can you help with

1) exact or possible causes
2) the fix
3) how do I take the steering wheel off safely

3 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

We have no idea of the failure to give you a procedure. Can you be more specific what the dealer said? Here is how to remove the airbag and steering wheel so you can check things out. Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know what happens.

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Sunday, May 19th, 2013 AT 4:54 PM

ZIKOBISHI

MEMBER
2 POSTS

The dealer mentioned something about a part inside the airbag assembly is loose, he said something "clock". He said it isn't dangerous. He just told me to live with it.

When I grab the steering wheel and move it around there is no looseness. There is a slight maybe 1/2 inch play when steering which I believe that stems from worn out gears in the gearbox. But I doubt the problem I am referring to is from there.

By the way, the sound and the feel of looseness is also felt when I stop and just step on the gas to start moving.

Correct me if I am wrong, I understand the steering shaft is in two parts the outer (tube) and the inner (rod) parts. The inner part is centered by some bushings, the problem feels like comes from worn out bushing(s).

What do you think?

Thank you
Z

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Thursday, May 30th, 2013 AT 9:47 PM