Steering - Scraping Noise From Behind Steering Wheel
Bulletin No.: 04-09-41-005ADate: October 26, 2005
TECHNICAL
Subject:
Scraping Noise from Upper Steering Column Behind Steering Wheel (Reposition Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Wires)
Models:
2004 Saturn VUE Built Up To and Including VIN Breakpoints 4S885734
2005-2006 Chevrolet Equinox
2006 Pontiac Torrent
Attention:
Fixed Operations Manager and Technician
Supercede:
This bulletin is being revised to include additional models. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 04-09-41-005 (Section 09 - Restraints).
Condition
Some customers may comment on noise from the steering column and/or noise from behind the steering wheel when turning the steering wheel.
Cause
The inflatable restraint steering wheel module wires that go between the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) coil and the inflatable restraint steering wheel module are applying a downward force where the wires come out of the SIR coil. This force may be causing the top cover of the SIR coil to make contact with the SIR coil housing which creates a scraping noise. This force is primarily due to the routing of the wires during installation of the inflatable restraint steering wheel module.
Correction
On vehicles with this condition, follow the service procedure below to reposition the inflatable restraint steering wheel module wires in order to eliminate the noise condition.
1. Disable the SIR system (Zone 3).
2. Remove the inflatable restraint steering wheel module.
3. If both yellow airbag wires are taped together, then remove both pieces of black tape (only 2004 Saturn VUE should have tape condition).
4. Straighten out the yellow wires to remove kinks.
5. Orient the yellow wires as if they have never been taped together. Yellow wires should be separate, starting from the SIR coil connector. Refer to the illustration.
6. Reconnect both yellow wires to the inflatable restraint steering wheel module. For Saturn VUE only, do not connect the horn switch connector at this time.
7. Rotate the inflatable restraint steering wheel module one revolution clockwise while keeping the steering wheel from turning.
8. Connect the horn switch connector from the steering wheel to the inflatable restraint steering wheel module.
Important:
When reinstalling the inflatable restraint steering wheel module, pull the airbag leads (yellow wires) in an upward direction, towards the top of the steering wheel hub. This will prevent the wires from pressing down on the SIR coil connector. Then make sure the wires go back into "pocket" area behind the SIR coil.
9. Reinstall the inflatable restraint steering wheel module.
10. Enable the SIR system (Zone 3).
11. Start the vehicle and verify that the noise has been eliminated.
Warranty Information
To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim, use the table.
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