Steering Column problems of the 2004 Chevrolet Suburban

The steering column has some flaw in it causing a loose connection on the collapsible shaft. Ge is claiming that a "corrected or revised" shaft is the fix but they are not currently paying for the "fix". This is a 2004 chevy. Suburban.

We own a 2004 Chevrolet Suburban with approximately 50,000 current miles. We purchased the vehicle used at 20,000 miles. At some point after 36000 we started noticing a "clunking" in the steering column when we would turn the wheel. I an employed at a school and it has had to have this same problem repaired on 3 of it's 2004 Chevrolet 1500 Suburbans, each with just over the 36,000 warranty mileage. Each cost about $370. 00 to repair.

The steering column u joint that connects to the steering box has loosened causing a clunking in the steering wheel. The u-joint has not failed as of this time, but a failure or binding could easily result in the loss of control of the vehicle. The dealerships are aware that there is a common problem with this part and offer a "grease kit" to remedy the problem. However, grease will not take the play out of a loose u-joint. This is a cover-up remedy to make the looseness less obvious. The dealership wants over $300 for a replacement part alone and claims it is a restricted part since it is part of the energy absorbing system in the event of a collision. The looseness was first noticeable with only 13000 miles on the vehicle. The problem has continued to worsen since first noticed.