STS4 "grinding" when turning and/or accelerating at low speeds

[dhemrick]

We just bought a used STS4. So far, I'm pretty happy with the car, but we have noticed a type of "grinding" that I cannot determine whether it is a problem or just a characteristic of the AWD system.

When turning and/or accelerating at low speeds (traffic, parking log, driveway, etc.) one gets the sensation of grinding or vibration from the front end. I have particularly noticed it through my left foot when it is resting on the foot rest, but it is detectable otherwise too. It is accompanied by a subtle grinding noise also from the front end. It's not the power steering pump because I checked that, and it will do it even when not turning but rather just accelerating from very slow or a dead stop.

I have an STS-V as well and it does not do this, but that is a completely different set up than the STS4.

Do any of you STS4 owners notice something similar? Before I take it to be serviced, I want to see if this is simply characteristic of all wheel drive or whether it is an actual problem.

[ijsegurola]

I've had a groaning/squeaking problem with the steering for some time now....

but my noise is coming from the steering column not the front end...dealer hasn't been able to fix it and I'm about to lemon law it which is a shame...

[brewhaha9th]

I have an 06 STS4 V8 and i noticed the same thing. I'm glad i'm not the only one. While turning in reverse it's most noticeable like the tire is rubbing against something.

[dkozloski]

My '06 AWD STS V8 is quiet as a little mouse.

[Lifer]

Originally Posted by dkozloski

My '06 AWD STS V8 is quiet as a little mouse.

Probably becuase its frozen over.

[eightshb]

I would have them check the wheel bearings in front end. Also check your tires to see if Alignment is off and if your tires are worn on the inside or outside that will cause noise

[malatu]

I visit the Bonneville user's site and what you are describing is very similar to a problem with the "intermediate steering shaft" on the Bonneville. I'm not very technical so you have to take what I write in this post "with a grain of salt". Here is a link to this site. The second "sticky" down discusses the "intermediate shaft". Also, if you do a search, there are numerous posts addressing this issue. Good luck.

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=8

[loman]

My 06 V6 STS AWD is very quiet . Only had it a few months , but no complaints . Very happy with it .
I will need to get the driver seat fixed whenever i bring it in , and the recirc door lubed , but all that will be
warranty work.