Three problems related to steering column have been reported for the 2004 GMC Sierra. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Clunk noise that can be felt through steering column when traveling over rough pavement and is more pronounced when turning the wheel to the left. Manufacturer has known of this problem for several years and still has failed to correct it for many customers. Most dealer service centers tell customers that they can take care of the problem by lubricating the upper intermediate shaft of the steering column. This works for many but is just a temporary fix as it has been reported by many that the problem returns and in most cases after the warranty period has expired. Some owners have reported returning to the dealership as many as 5 times.
Consumer states: set 2 yr old son in passenger seat took keys out of seat laid in console, child stuck key in switch turned enough to turn on gears without touching braking. Talk to gm said they were designed.
When turning left the steering wheel squeaks. When taking minor bumps on the road there's a rattling or a pulsing feeling coming from the steering wheel/column. Driver door made a rattling noise (which was fixed) and there was a pumping noise coming from under the dash board by the floor (which was fixed).