INSPECTION PROCEDURE 8: Squeaking Noise: Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

STEP 1. Check for interference of the wheel and vehicle body.

If interfering, adjust the steering angle.

Place the front wheel on a turning radius gauge and measure the steering angle.

Standard valve:

STEERING ANGLE SPECIFICATION

ITEM	ENGINE	3.0L ENGINE
Inside wheel	36°12' +/- 2°00'	31°00' +/- 2°00'
Outside wheel (reference)	30°24'	27°00'

Fig 1: Placing Front Wheel On Turning Radius Gauge

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

If the steering angle is not within the standard value, adjust the toe-in.
Standard value: 0 +/- 3 mm (0 +/- 0.12 inch)
Adjust the toe-in by undoing the clip and turning the left and right tie rod turnbuckles by the same amount (in opposite directions).
NOTE: The toe will move out as the left turnbuckle is turned toward the front of the vehicle and the right turnbuckle is turned toward the rear of the vehicle.

Q: Is the steering angle normal?

YES : Go to Step 2.

NO: Adjust the steering angle. Then go to Step 3.

Fig 2: Adjusting Steering Angle

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

STEP 2. Check the steering gear box for damage.
Q: Is there damage?

YES : Repair or replace the part. Then go to Step 3.

NO: Go to Step 3.
STEP 3. Retest the system.
Confirm that no noise is generated.

Q: Is there noise?

YES : Repeat to Step 1.

NO: Diagnosis is complete.