Steering Knuckle Replacement

[bjornbjorn]

My steering knuckle is cracked right where the outer tie rod goes into it. It is cracked all the way through, I havent hit anything and I went to a mechanic for a check up on something else and they noticed that it was cracked all the way through. Is this common and how easy is it to fix. I have done bearings, front axle, brakes is this a fairly easy job? How is it done and how long should it take? I couldnt find any write ups or videos on replacing the front steering knuckle anywhere. This is a 04 grand prix gt with 167,000 kms.

Also what should be the average cost to get this done?

 

[TheOtherNick]

Just take off the brakes, then unbolt the strut, sway bar, tie rod, and ball joint and put it back on.

 

[Dtrick22]

Since you've done bearings, axles, and brakes you shouldn't have a problem. You'll just be doing the stuff he mentioned above as well, and taking your bearing out of it and into the new one

Here:
Steering Knuckle Replacement
Removal Procedure

Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
Remove the bearing/hub assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement .
Remove the front lower control arm ball stud. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .
Remove the outer tie rod end from the steering knuckle. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement in Power Steering.



Scribe the strut to the knuckle.



Remove the bolts and nuts attaching the strut to the knuckle.
Remove the knuckle from the vehicle.
Installation Procedure

Install the knuckle to the vehicle.



Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

Install the bolts and nuts attaching the strut to the knuckle.
Tighten
Tighten the strut to knuckle bolts to 120 N·m (89 lb ft).

Install the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement in Power Steering System.
Connect the front lower control arm ball stud to the knuckle. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .
Install the front wheel drive shaft bearing. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement .
Lower the vehicle.
Inspect the front wheel alignment and adjust if necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.

Courtesy of the GM service manual