I found a really nice 3rd gen that I might buy. But I noticed that the steering column is very loose as if the tilt wheel wont lock? The column actually moves up and down, side to side?? I drove the car and it steers fine and but it just feels strange. The owner said it just became loose and he always drove it like that.

1. How do i fix it? cost for parts ?
2. Is this common?
3. Does this raise a red flag, maybe theres something else going on?

Thanks guys.

 

no this is very common on all gm tilt colums what happens is that people pull on the steering wheel when they get in and out of the car. what happens is the the bolts come loose and allow the wheel to move all around it is a easy fix with the right tools you will need a steering wheel puller a lock plate remover and inverted torks sockets and a couple of screw drivers you will not have to buy anything unless you dont have the tools many parts stores should rent you the tools it should only take about a hour or so to do it not very hard

 

Do a search on tightening the column within 3rd gen. There is a complete writeup. It is a little more involved if you have an airbag, but complete instructions are available. I have looked through the writeup and it is not a huge deal. If the car is a good deal, don't let the column deter you. It is fixable.