The '09 Vue XE 2.4L with electric assist steering started to get a bit hard steering. Very slight movements caused a creaking/groaning sound. Has anybody seen this?
Though at first that it may be a strut top bearing. It comes and goes. Can't say that it correlates to wet weather making the sound stop. It does seem to get worse after driving for some time regardless of weather.
Jacked up the front end and was able to easily move the wheels back and forth just by pushing the wheels. couldn't find any kind of play and all looks good. The steering wheel itself seems a bit stiff. The electric power assist is under the dash on the steering column and looks to be a big deal to troubleshoot. The universal joints on the steering shaft and rack and pinion all appear to be good. Threw some oil on the universals just to see...