I took my 2009 2 LT HHR with 143.xxx miles to the mechanic this morning for a howling type noise in the right front. They just told me it is the wheel bearings which I suspected. But they also told me I have another problem in the steering column. I was told on the test drive that the steering would be tight and then loosen up in a turn as I understood it meaning the steering column shaft needs to be replaced. I was shocked to hear this as I really haven’t noticed a steering problem. He may have told me more but I didn’t hear it in the moment. (Control arms were replaced a couple of years ago.) I have gone to this shop for more than 20 years and they have always treated me right. I had planned to sell the car after the noise was fixed because I now have my mothers car with a lot less miles. The total cost I was quoted is $1634 for both repairs. Living on social security that is a really tough bill. Otherwise the car is is nice shape and I have always kept up with maintenance. I need some advice here. Replace the bearings and only lube the steering column? Do both? Do neither and sell as is? I’m not sure what these cars are worth now. Thanks for any input

 

Your best to sell it as is, unless you can change parts yourself. The steering shaft won’t be fixed by greasing it, the u joints are loose and the slide shaft is seized. It should be replaced.