2006 Pontiac Grand Prix - Rack and Pinion

[kcota15]

I need some advice from all the wise car people out there. I was just changing oil no my wife's Grand Prix (3.8 supercharged). When I attempted to pull the drain plug I couldn't even turn it. I used two hands and pulled as hard as I could and it wouldn't budge. I even tried using a rubber mallet on the wrench to loosen. No go. I called the shop where I had the oil changed last and made an appointment. I let them know the plug was way too tight. They changed the oil and did comp the service.

Now along with this came a list of things they say need attention. A few I agree with. Some I question. First they say both belts are cracked. When I look I don't see any cracks, thin spots etc. They are both pliable and don't seem dried out, cracked or otherwise worn. Is there something else I can look for.

Second they say the rack and pinion is leaking. The rack was replaced 20,000 miles ago. I have never added any power steering fluid, found any drips on the driveway, or feel any problem with the power steering at all. I'm not a mechanic by any means, so if there is something else I can look for with the rack and pinion to confirm their finding I will certainly do so. Please post ideas.

They suggested plugs and wires because of the mileage. I agree with them on this one and it is on my list of things to do when I get the chance.

My question is, do I follow through with the service they suggest, get a second opinion, or ignore based on my findings.

I've had a really hard time finding a dependable and honest shop and am getting really frustrated.

I would appreciate and look forward to your suggestions.

Thanks in advance.

[Jeremy airjer W]

Was this place you patronized have "tires" "plus" a whole lot more?

On the belts if you look on the rib side where it goes around the water pump do you see any cracks? If not don't worry about it.

If you crawled far enough under the car to get at the drain plug than you weren't to far away from taking a peak at the rack. If it's dry around the area where the lines and shaft are connected and dry around the dust boots than it's good.

[kcota15]

Jeremy,

Thanks for the response. I don't see any cracks on the rib side of the belt. I will check more closely again tomorrow.

I will also crawl under the car again tomorrow to check around the rack. I looked at what I could without jacking the car up again. I wasn't really in the mood after today's events.

As far as the place, I live in AZ and it is not a national chain place.

Thanks again for the help. Hope you are staying warm in the frozen north.

[jmd1]

kcota, where in az do you live? I am in phoenix area. What shop did you use, might know them. there are some good and some BAD in the valley. Jeff

[kcota15]

jmd1,

I live in Casa Grande. It was a shop in town. It's a shop/detailing place. I had them do some front end work for me last year and I was happy with the results. Unfortunately after today, I am starting to question them.

[jmd1]

i live in phoenix but work in Eloy. Let me do some checking around from the guys at work and see if they can recommend someone. I know there are some "shade tree" guys doing work in CG but they are usually in the out skirts of town. I will let you know what i come up with.

[kcota15]

jmd1,

I appreciate the help.

[jmd1]

I did not want to think i forgot you, i have not found anyone that is much trusted in CG/Eloy area. Dealer might be the best spot in that area. Jones is not a bad place.