Steering wheel/column lubrication

[sunman]

Got my first Toyota last month...2000 4runner 2WD SR5 Sport. Lately I notice a scraping sound when turning the steering wheel in either direction. My first thought is that the wheel or column needs some grease somewhere. Is this true?

Can I lube/oil/grease the wheel/column? Should I take it to the stealer?

Any ideas most welcome!

Thanks,

sunman
(I love my 4runner!)

 

[hossmaster]

my 02 tacoma does that too, there really isn't anything that can be done about it. Turn radio up louder.

 

[LINY4Runner]

quick easy fix from the resident toyota technician:

crawl under the dash, and follow the steering shaft to the boot where it penetrates the floor. the sound is from the boot drying out and rubbing on the shaft. get a little paint brush and apply some WHITE LITHIUM GREASE to the point where they rub (it will be necessary to push the bood back up to an inch). don't use the spary stuff as it is wayy too messy. camrys and corollas are notorious for this, the taco and t4r are climbing on that list as well




while you have the grease out, do the door checks, and hood stoppers