Questions and Answers

GMC Sierra Wanders On The Road Q. Hi, I have a problem with my 2003 GMC Sierra. It doesn't want to stay straight on the road. Light cross wind will affect it more than normal with this type of vehicle. The gear box has been changed. The alignment is ok. GM just can't figure it out and all they say, is that they cannot duplicate it on the invoice every time.

The truck follows every dip or cracks on the road surface and as it is a big vehicle it's pretty annoying to drive since it zigzags side to side all the time. Talking with everyone I meet with the same type of truck a lot don't have that problem but some said yes that they had sensitive steering and problems keeping the truck straight within the lines on windy day especially on the highway. But also on the city streets.

Can you please help me figure this problem out I've been checking on the internet and some people on Edmonds.com say it could be the steering box or the power assist valve. On another site I found something about speed sensor or something in the steering wheel? I'm spending a lot of time and effort to solve this problem which is driving me crazy since it's pretty scary to drive in heavy traffic!

Please if you could take the time to check what you think I would appreciate it very much and it would help a lot of people with the same problem. I found 9 people with the same problem since up to now.

Thanks much,
Andre

A. You didn't say if it is 2WD or 4WD. Does it have the quadra-steer? Lot's of bulletins for the quadra-steer. Also, is it a regular size truck or a 4 door crew cab. Hauling lot's of weight? You may need to see a good alignment shop and let them align it and save your receipts if truck is still under warranty so you can have dealer re-imburse you for the repairs.

Make sure tires are set to factory recomended pressures. There is a sensor in the steering wheel that can go bad and give you the feeling of loose steering but it just steers faster with less resistance in the wheel when this sensor goes bad. Maybe you need to take a technician for a ride and show him your concern to make sure he knows what EXCACTLY you are talking about.