Possible timing and power steering issues

[jgtodd05]

I have an 06 Cobalt Eco 2.2 L. I have problems intermittently with steering. It will become hard (enter manual steering) to steer randomly. I have read some things about the electric power steering being a piece of crap on these things and would like to know if anyone has fixed this with just a motor swap on the column? Any advice is greatly received.

Additionally, the traction control light comes on sometimes and I haven't been able to get the code read, but reading up on it says that it might be a timing issue (WTF????). I don't know how that has anything to do with traction but ok. Figuring that I'd check the spark plugs and wires first I did some research to cover all bases. I also found that the timing chain tensioner is a huge problem with these things as well. Finally, last night after changing the oil I went to start it and it sounded like it was about to die on the low end of the rpm scales. It actually stalled once. On the drive home it seemed to get better. Hints, advice, etc is appreciated, but I was thinking to change the chain tensioner, plugs and wires to cover all bases. thanks.

 

[YelloEye]

Power steering is a recall. Take it to the dealer.

Get the code read.

 

[jgtodd05]

I have been trying but it is an intermittent problem. If there aren't any lights then it's not throwing any codes. Was finally able to get it to act up and got the codes read...is there any place that has all the codes and the solutions?

 

[YelloEye]

Service books. Otherwise you can try Google.

 

[jgtodd05]

Intermittent Issues

I got the codes read and there are a lot of them, which leads me to believe that it is one of the modules controlling a lot of the functions. TCM, PSCM, etc. I can put the codes on here but from the responses I have seen I don't think anyone has an answer to this issue...guess it's time for a diagnosis from a tech.

 

[YelloEye]

What codes popped up?

 

[jgtodd05]

There are quite a few. However I did find that the ignition will still turn from the on position to the acc position while the car is in gear. All this after the recall fix. Codes are U2100, U2107, U2105, U2108 and some others that Im pretty sure are cascade codes from the ones listed above.

 

[YelloEye]

Pretty sure that's normal for the key to do. It allows you to turn the motor off in the event of an unintended acceleration event.

 

[jgtodd05]

This is the recall. You might wanna test your cars...if it still does this you are at a major risk. Plus the engine turning off while in gear will tear up your transmission.

SUMMARY:
UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
CONSEQUENCE:
If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
REMEDY:
UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to Home | Safercar -- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

 

[YelloEye]

The key word there is 'accidental'. I already had that recall done.

Being able to shut off the motor in gear is normal for every car I've ever driven.

The only change they made to my car was to change the key design.