Drivers of 2007 Legacy and Outback models may complain of a scraping or rubbing sound from the upper portion of the steering column as the steering wheel is turned. One likely cause for the noise, reports Subaru, is the steering wheel contacting the upper column cover. Modifying the cover bracket should eliminate the trouble.
Begin the fix by removing the lower cover to gain access to the upper cover's mounting bracket. Using an angled needle-nose pliers, bend the mounting bracket forward between .040 inches and .080 inches. That should move the top cover toward the front and away from the steering wheel.
To complete the repair, turn the steering wheel to confirm that the noise has been eliminated, then reinstall the lower column cover.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].