Three problems related to steering gear box sector shaft have been reported for the 2003 GMC Sierra. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When turning the steering wheel completely to the left it will lock in this position and continue in a circle.
At about 20,000 miles I started hearing a slight knocking noise in the steering while slightly turning to the right, and while hitting minor bumps in the road. Now at about 22,500 miles it continues to get worse. Being a former mechanic I checked it out and found the upper steering shaft u-joint, by the firewall, to be the cause. I called the dealer and talked to the parts deparment. The parts guy said it is a common problem and you have to replace the complete shaft and u-joints. "there are about 400,000 on back order. " it will take months to get it in. The service manager said there is no recall on the problem at this time. Why not nhts, with this many needing to be replaced.
The steering column experienced a cracking noise while driving 1-25 mph, and while making turns. Vehicle was taken to the dealer, who repacked the steering column with grease. After 22,000 miles the problem recurred. Vehicle was taken back to the dealer. The dealer informed consumer that the steering shaft was too short, and they needed to order a new shaft. Consumer was waiting for the part. . . . . . . Consumer claimed that if this short shaft is working up and down, connected to steering box, then to tie rods, means everything is moving. Consumer wa sconcerned that this was a safety issue.