Hey everyone!
My girlfriend bought a 2007 HHR earlier this year, and it has had a rattling noise coming from right in front of the driver since then. We didn't think much of it until recently. When taking right turns, at varying speeds, the steering wheel makes a popping noise and locks. You have to turn it to the left and then back right in order to move it further over. Sometimes at low speeds it almost seems like we are running something over when it happens, not sure if this is just a coincidence or not. This issue worries me very much because if it happens at the wrong time, she is in trouble. Any help is appreciated!

 

And you continue driving it like that? Are you mechanically minded, and have the tools and place to work on it?

 

I know how to do basic work, and she won't listen to me which is why I'm in a rush to fix it. Yes I have the tools and a lift available to me.

 

Cool - Well, the description is still pretty vague - and can be caused by numerous things. To determine the problem, a full inspection of the front suspension is needed - including all ball joints, bushings, of the steering tie rods, lower control arms, sway bar bushings and end links. As well the linkage of the steering wheel shaft (universal joint) needs to be checked.

IF the steering locks up as being described - driving it is dangerous!!! I would not drive it myself.

Advising how to fix it isn't possible till one knows what the problem is. Commonly reported issues have been with the steering column mechanism which can get noisy, lower control arm REAR bushings, sway bar end links, and a few ball joints. So really it needs a full hands-on inspection.

How many miles on it so far?

Continuing to drive it like that is not at all advisable.

 

194k miles on it, with a rebuilt motor and transmission. New shocks and struts. The rattling sound is pretty loud and noticeable, comes from right under the steering wheel. I wish she would listen to me about not driving it.

 

Ok - that's pretty high mileage. If not already done within the last 60K miles, I'd really get the whole front end professionally inspected, including the steering column.

Chevy apparently put out a TSB on the steering column as per several references in this thread -https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/problems-service-repairs-42/rattle-steering-column-37974/ .. Several people have had their steering column replaced under warranty due to noises - but being it's a 2007, with that kind of mileage, you are likely on your own if that is the cause.

If she insists on driving it with the steering locking up, about all I can suggest is get some insurance on her. Ask her if she would still drive it if the foot brake didn't work, but the emergency/parking brake still worked?

 

Haha that's a very good example to maybe show her that just because she thinks she can handle it, doesn't mean she can. Part of the reason for coming onto this forum was to show her its not just my opinion that it is dangerous. I will get everything checked out soon. If the rare chance that nothing is found, should I continue this post or make a new one? Thanks!

 

If nothing is found, then you need to get a different mechanic. There is DEFINITELY something WRONG.

Once the cause is pinpointed, by all means get back here and post whatever info you can.

No, you are totally right - it is dangerous, not only to her, but others on the road.

A number of repair procedures are pretty well documented on the forum here - see the HOW-TO section. ie: Lower Control Arm bushings replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, etc.. You can find a lot of good info using the SEARCH tool at the top of the page - ie: enter "steering column" for a list of threads detailing some of the issues people have had with their steering column.

Best of luck.

 

Some of your description could be the power steering motor. That will be a FREE repair at a GM dealer.

There is a link in my sig re: suspension noises.

 

Welcome to the site! As whopper states get it checked out!! Please let us know what you find.

Here is a very good link for possible causes

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/prob...g-pop-s-50648/


My 2007 had the intermediate shaft lock up on the outer ujoint, but I'm not saying that is what is wrong here.