This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2007 Pontiac G6 steering problems
critical 539 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $700 · see steering across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
539
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
21crashes
7fires
7injuries
1fatality
When does it fail?
Of the 539 steering complaints filed for the 2007 Pontiac G6, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 150,000+ mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Steering accounts for 44% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 12 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 539 steering complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This service bulletin provides technicians with updated information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides technicians with updated information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This technical bulletin provides a procedure to eliminate a power steering noise due to extremely low temperatures.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This preliminary information bulletin provides information for diagnosing a power steering fluid leak at the fluid reservoir.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of 2007 Pontiac G6 vehicles describe a pattern of serious steering failures that begin with intermittent loss of power steering assist. A chime sounds and a "POWER STEERING" message displays on the dash, after which steering becomes extremely difficult or locked. Some owners report the system temporarily restores function after turning the ignition off and on; others say it fails completely and will not reset. These failures happen unpredictably—at parking speeds, city streets, and highway speeds—creating dangerous driving situations.
The second major complaint involves a persistent clunking or popping noise from the steering column, especially during turns and low-speed maneuvers. Owners report this began early in ownership and worsens over time. Dealers have applied lubrication to the intermediate steering shaft as a temporary fix, but the noise returns after the lubricant wears off.
A third category includes steering wheel vibration or shake, sometimes violent, occurring at highway speeds or during braking. Some owners also report the steering wheel locks up unexpectedly or becomes extremely tight, requiring excessive force to turn.
Owners consistently note that their cars exhibit the same symptoms as 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2009 G6 models that were recalled by GM, yet their specific vehicles are excluded from recalls due to manufacturing date or VIN range restrictions. Repair costs cited range from $400 to $1,100, and several owners report components failing again within months of replacement. Dealers have mentioned service bulletins for the issue exist but say certain VINs are not covered.
Same Pontiac G6 steering reports on nearby years: 2005 · 2008 · 2009 · 2010
Failure modes owners describe
Intermittent/Complete Loss of Electric Power Steering
Electric power steering assist fails suddenly or intermittently, often with a chime alert and 'POWER STEERING' message on the driver information display. Steering becomes difficult or impossible to control, requiring greater force at low speeds. Some owners report the system resets briefly after turning the ignition off and back on.
When: Varies widely; reported at speeds ranging from 0 to 70+ mph, during turns or on straights, and with no discernible pattern.
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of power steering assist; Chime alert with 'POWER STEERING' dashboard message; Steering becomes extremely difficult or locked; Power steering resets temporarily when car is restarted; Intermittent failures occurring multiple times per drive or days apart; Failure to reset after ignition cycle in advanced cases
Codes mentioned: Torque sensor fault (most commonly diagnosed), Power steering motor control module failure, Steering column sensor ring defect, Intermediate steering shaft issues
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers typically diagnose and replace torque sensor ($400–$600), power steering motor ($500–$600), or steering column ($495+). Some owners report multiple replacement attempts without permanent resolution. Repair costs range $400–$1,100 depending on parts replaced.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM has issued multiple recalls (14V-153, 14772, 15V064000) for 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2009 Pontiac G6 models, and some 2007 models built between April 18–June 30, 2006 (NHTSA 15V064000). However, many 2007 model year vehicles fall outside the affected date ranges and are not covered despite exhibiting identical symptoms. GM stated this is an electrical issue not covered under powertrain warranty. Some owners received service bulletins; dealers mentioned extended warranty coverage for affected units but applied selectively.
Steering Column Noise and Intermediate Shaft Clunking
Owners report persistent clunking, popping, rattling, or clicking sounds from the steering column area, particularly when turning or driving over bumps at low speeds. The issue started early in vehicle ownership for some and persists despite lubrication attempts.
When: Low-speed turning, driving over bumps, or during routine steering wheel operation. One owner reported symptoms beginning shortly after purchase with 28,000 miles and continuing for years.
Symptoms owners cite: Clunking or popping noise from steering column or intermediate shaft; Rattling and vibrating sensations in steering; Clicking sound when turning at slow speed; Noise worsens over time despite repairs; Vehicle feels like it is falling apart due to vibrations
Codes mentioned: Intermediate steering shaft play/wear, Steering column sensor ring defect, U-joint inadequate support
Repairs/costs cited: GM issued service bulletin 06-02-32-007G (April 5, 2010) for 2005–2010 Pontiac G6 addressing clunk/knock/rattle in front of vehicle. Some owners had intermediate shaft lubricated as a temporary fix; dealers later indicated redesigned shaft replacement available (~$495). Multiple owners report the lubrication is temporary and noise returns after wear-off. At least one owner paid for complete steering system replacement (~$900+) without resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service bulletin 06-02-32-007G issued for intermediate shaft noise. GM offered lubrication as initial remedy, later made redesigned shaft available for purchase. Some owners cited by dealers as not being covered by recalls despite service bulletins existing for the exact issue.
Steering Wheel Lock-Up or Loss of Steering Control
Steering wheel suddenly becomes locked or extremely difficult to turn, rendering the vehicle difficult or impossible to steer. This occurs unpredictably during normal driving and is often resolved only by turning the ignition off and back on.
When: Reported at various speeds from 10 mph (in driveway) to 70 mph (highway). Occurs while turning, changing lanes, or on straightaways. One owner reported occurrence in February and November 2017.
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel completely locked or seized; Steering becomes extremely tight and difficult to turn; Loss of steering control coinciding with power steering failure; Temporary reset when ignition is cycled; Recurrence after brief period of normal operation
Codes mentioned: Steering column electrical fault, Torque sensor failure, Power steering motor malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have diagnosed and replaced steering columns (cost ~$800–$1,000), torque sensors, and motors. One owner reported steering column replacement at dealership on 7/28/08, with identical problem recurring one month later (lubrication applied instead of replacement).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM recalls for 2005–2009 G6 models exclude many 2007 models based on manufacturing date. Recall #15356 mentioned by one owner; recall expiration dates have passed, leaving owners without coverage. One owner noted recall information was not received despite ownership; dealer could not honor recall after deadline.
Steering Wheel Shake and Vibration
Steering wheel shakes or vibrates, sometimes violently, often at highway speeds or when braking. Some owners report the issue is related to front suspension/strut problems or warped rotors, while others describe it as an inherent steering control problem.
When: Reported at highway speeds (40–70 mph), during braking, and when turning. One owner with 28,000 miles reported constant lurching side-to-side. Shake may start at ~40 mph and worsen with speed.
Symptoms owners cite: Violent shaking or vibration in steering wheel; Steering wheel moves side-to-side on its own while stopped at traffic lights; Shaking worsens at higher speeds; Shaking occurs during braking or when making turns; Steering feels loose and bumpy; Tires wear on outer edges (possible alignment/suspension cause)
Codes mentioned: Strut wear/failure, Wheel alignment issue, Rack and pinion wear, Intermediate shaft play
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple owners had struts replaced, wheel alignment performed, tie rods and stabilizer bar links replaced, and brake rotors resurfaced. Costs varied ($500–$1,500+). One owner with 28,000 miles was advised entire steering system from wheel to wheels needed replacement (~$1,500+ for parts alone). Some owners report problems persist after multiple repairs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service bulletins exist (06-02-32-007G) for intermediate shaft issues. Recalls for certain model years/VINs address suspension concerns indirectly. However, many owners report being excluded from recalls despite identical symptoms to recalled models.
Hard/Tight Power Steering at Startup
Power steering is stiff, tight, or non-functional immediately after starting the car, particularly when attempting to reverse or maneuver in parking situations. The issue resolves after several restarts or brief driving.
When: At startup and during low-speed maneuvering in parking lots or driveways.
Symptoms owners cite: Power steering extremely hard or impossible to turn at startup; Steering wheel requires excessive force to move left and right; Issue resolves after multiple ignition cycles or brief driving; Recurring pattern of stiffness on subsequent cold starts
Codes mentioned: Power steering control module issue, Torque sensor malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: No specific repair noted by owners; issue typically resolves with restart cycles.
Steering Rack Failure
Steering rack becomes faulty, worn, or requires replacement. One owner with low mileage (~28,000) noted entire steering rack needed replacement, and another reported rack replacement at 51,000 miles with recurrence.
When: One case at 28,000 miles; another at 51,000 miles with recurrence. A case at 51,000 miles involved clunking noise days before full failure.
Symptoms owners cite: Steering becomes difficult to control; Clunking noise before lock-up; Steering wheel locks or becomes extremely difficult to turn during normal maneuvers; Rapid left-right steering wheel oscillation during braking
Codes mentioned: Steering rack wear/failure
Repairs/costs cited: One owner replaced steering rack twice in 9 months ($800+ each); problem recurred after 3 months and again 6 weeks after second replacement. Another owner was quoted ~$1,500 for rack replacement cost, exceeding vehicle value.
Power Steering Fluid/Hose Leak from Heat Damage
Power steering return hose rests against hot exhaust pipe, causing rubber to deteriorate and fluid to leak. This creates steering loss risk and potential fire hazard.
When: Discovered after minimal driving (less than 0.5 mile); issue is design/assembly defect present from manufacture.
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of power steering fluid; Smoke from under vehicle; Smell of burning rubber or fluid; Virtual loss of steering control; Hose material burned through from heat conduction
Repairs/costs cited: Owner noted reflective heat barrier ineffective; hose required replacement. Owner planned weekend repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM appeared unconcerned when owner phoned; no recall or service bulletin mentioned.
Steering Knuckle Popping/Failure Due to Poor Design
Steering knuckle produces persistent popping noise, particularly on sharp turns. The component lacks proper lubrication design (no grease fittings), leading to rapid wear and repeated failure even after replacement.
When: During sharp turns; noise starts quiet and worsens over time.
Symptoms owners cite: Popping noise during sharp turns; Noise worsens progressively; Repeated failures of new parts after installation
Codes mentioned: Steering knuckle wear/failure
Repairs/costs cited: Proposed fix involves plastic shroud around knuckle filled with grease. One owner's coworker reported multiple replacement attempts with parts failing repeatedly. Costs not specified.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Proposed fix involves sealed plastic shroud with grease rather than redesign of lubrication system.
Steering Pulling to One Side
Vehicle constantly pulls to the right or left, even with new tires and alignment. On one brand-new vehicle, steering began pulling right within the warranty period.
When: One case evident at 28,000 miles on brand-new vehicle (GT convertible); another case ongoing after used car purchase.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle pulls strongly to right (or left); Requires constant steering wheel correction; Vehicle drives off road if steering wheel is released; Occurs even after alignment; Tires wearing on outer edges
Codes mentioned: Alignment fault, Steering rack/column defect, Suspension issue
Repairs/costs cited: Alignment performed; problem persisted in at least one case.
Synthesized from 539 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 9 most recent
For a while name the dash would read power steering but the wheel wouldn't be hard to turn but I would be in park and it would be turning by its self. I would cut the car off but it would be ok start it back up be problem other night it did it again while parked cit the car off started it back up started to head home and it did it again and I was on the highway and the wheel started turning and…
Brakes, and brake rotors have been replaced numerous times. Too many electrical malfunctions to mention. Today, my wife said her power steering light came on. It scares me that she has to drive my son to school in this car. I have researched this vehicle, and found numerous safety issues with other owners as well. I have contacted the different dealers for help, to no avail. Why isn't there a…
Driving during snowy conditions, I began to lose control and spin out. I attempted to correct my steering, then my car fish tailed. I slid into the ditch, never used my brakes. I took out a sign with the drivers side and hit about 3-4 trees with the front end. My airbags never deployed. Thank goodness no one was injured, but the amount of damage done and how many things I hit, shocks me as to…
The contact's son owns a Pontiac G6. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, her son noticed that the steering wheel was locked. The power steering assists warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently and her son was able to take the vehicle to an unknown dealer who diagnosed that the steering column needed to be replaced. The contact stated…
Car is unsafe it's like your all over the road steelering 8 very unsafe and dangerous.
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Pontiac g6. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 5 MPH, the steering wheel seized without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the power steering control module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.
2007 Pontiac g6, 77,000 miles. The steering wheel began to shake a lot. Then I notice when you slightly turn the wheel left or right it knocks. I have been receiving power steering warnings on my dash. When this happens I turn off the car and restart it, the problem goes away then restarts again. I don't know why the 2007 g6 was not on the recall list. I've notice a lot of other people on g6 car…
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Pontiac g6. While driving 30 MPH, the steering wheel became difficult to turn and the power steering warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be pulled over. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 170,000.
I have had this car since 2009. One of the first problems I noticed was what seemed to be electrical with the lights in the car going dim for a bit, then kicking back in. This only happens every so often. Low beam headlight on driver side keeps going out, even when putting a new light in. Passenger side window is the only window that works at all times. All three other windows are…
Had steering trouble with your 2007 Pontiac G6?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2007 Pontiac G6?
It's a serious issue. 539 complaints have been filed, including 21 reports involving a crash and 1 fatality(ies). We've classified it as critical based on NHTSA's reported outcomes.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Across the 442 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most steering failures cluster between 57,840 and 140,000 miles, with the median around 100,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 57,840; a quarter make it past 140,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2007/Pontiac/G6.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.