2003 purchase. ?'s

[rutman]

Hi.
Just purchased a 03 LT yesterday. Have a couple questions.

1. Got a clunking/bumping when turning steering wheel. Only while moving. After searching, this seems to be the intermediate shaft. Right? Gonna try greasing it. Opinions?

2. What is the little fan in the headliner for? It's making a noise.
Does it need cleaning?
Does the round cover just pop off?
Hard to replace?
Never seen this before.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Suburbanized]

Could be, but also look into the ball joints and a lot less likely, but definitely not outta the question, the rack and pinion mount bushings have worn out.

The round cover isn't the vent(s), right? If this is not what you are referring to, it will be the On Star microphone/sensor. Here is an article from GM regarding it. BTW, welcome to Chevy Forums!

Document ID# 1639237

Subject: Buzz Noise From Headliner Above Driver - keywords ac air aspirator cover fan grille HVAC interior microphone sensor speaker temperature vent vibration #PIT3511 - (03/29/2005)



Models: 2000-05 Cadillac Escalade

2002-05 Chevrolet Avalanche

2000-05 Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe

2000-05 GMC Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, Yukon Denali

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in the PI.

Condition/Concern:
Dealer or customer may comment that they have a buzz or vibration noise emanating from the headliner in an area that looks like microphone or a speaker.

Recommendation/Instructions:
The plastic escutcheon grill, which is round and about the size of a half dollar and located just above the driver to the left, is the interior ambient temperature sensor. The sensor is used in conjunction with the automatic HVAC (C68). On occasions, this sensor has been known to make a buzz or rattle sound. The sensor uses a small fan to pull air over the sensor. This buzz noise may be intermittent.

Although it may not be possible to alleviate all of the buzz or noise from this sensor, Engineering has found that if the sensor is installed incorrectly that it may bind and cause the fan to make a buzz noise. Remove the sensor and while doing so check for any binding. Reinstall the sensor and re-test. If the noise is still present, the sensor itself may be noisy and require replacement.