2014-2022 Chevrolet Spark Steering Knuckle: Gas vs. EV, Noises, and Replacement Guide

Symptoms of a Failing Steering Knuckle

The steering knuckle itself is a very durable piece of metal. Failure symptoms are almost always caused by either a bent knuckle from an impact (like hitting a curb) or, more commonly, a worn-out wheel bearing that is housed within the knuckle. Here are the signs to watch and listen for:

Abnormal Noises

• Grinding, Roaring, or Humming: This is the classic sign of a bad wheel bearing. The noise is constant while driving and typically gets louder with speed. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and replace a noisy Spark wheel bearing It may also change in pitch or intensity when you turn the steering wheel slightly left or right on the highway.
• Clunking or Popping: A clunking or popping sound, especially when driving over bumps or turning at low speeds, often points to worn ball joints or stabilizer bar links, which connect to the knuckle. If the mounting holes on the knuckle for these parts are worn or damaged, the knuckle itself may need replacement.
• Squealing or Clicking When Turning: Sharp squealing or clicking noises during turns can indicate a failing CV joint, but can also be related to a bad wheel bearing or issues where the knuckle connects to other suspension parts.

Physical and Steering Symptoms

• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If your Spark constantly pulls to one side and a wheel alignment can't correct it, you may have a bent steering knuckle. This is a common result of hitting a pothole or curb.
• Uneven Tire Wear: A bent knuckle changes the wheel's angle (camber), causing the inside or outside edge of a single tire to wear out much faster than the others.
• Loose or Vibrating Steering: A feeling of excessive play or looseness in the steering wheel can be caused by a worn wheel bearing housed in the knuckle. A vibration that gets worse with speed is also a strong indicator.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

While the steering knuckle is not a common failure point, it is involved in a critical safety recall for certain Spark models.

There are no other major recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that point to a pattern of failure for the steering knuckle itself on the 2014-2022 gasoline-powered Spark.

Buying a Used 2014-2022 Spark Steering Knuckle: A Buyer's Guide

A used OEM steering knuckle is an excellent value, as the part itself is a solid piece of cast iron that rarely fails without impact. The main things to verify are compatibility and condition.

What to Inspect on a Used Knuckle

• Check for Cracks: Carefully inspect the entire knuckle for hairline cracks, especially around the mounting points for the strut, ball joint, and tie rod. Any crack means the part is unsafe and should be rejected.
• Inspect Mounting Holes: Check the tapered hole for the ball joint and tie rod end. If the holes are worn into an oval shape, deformed, or show significant corrosion, the knuckle should not be used.
• Look for Bends or Warping: Place the knuckle on a flat surface to check for any obvious warping. A bent knuckle will cause persistent alignment issues.
• Condition of Threads: Ensure the threaded holes for the brake caliper bracket and other bolts are clean and not stripped. Damaged threads can make it impossible to safely attach the brakes.
• Ignore the Old Bearing: Most used knuckles are sold without the wheel hub and bearing. Even if they are included, you should always press in a new wheel bearing. The old bearing is a wear item and is likely to be damaged during removal from the donor vehicle anyway.

Compatibility Checks

There are two key generations for the Spark, and the parts may differ:

• First Generation (2013-2015): These models use specific knuckles. For example, OEM part number 94555796 is for the driver's side (Left) and 94555797 is for the passenger's side (Right) on these gasoline models.
• Second Generation (2016-2022): These models have different part numbers and potentially different bearing diameters.

Replacement Overview and Related Parts

Replacing a steering knuckle is an advanced DIY job that requires special tools and a focus on safety.

Related Parts to Replace at the Same Time

It is highly recommended to inspect and likely replace the following parts during a knuckle replacement:

• Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly: This is not optional. A new wheel bearing must be pressed 🎬 Watch: How to press and change a Spark wheel bearing into the replacement knuckle. Attempting to reuse the old one is unsafe and impractical.
• Lower Ball Joint: The ball joint connects the lower control arm to the knuckle. It's a common wear item and is inexpensive to replace while everything is apart.
• Outer Tie Rod End: This connects the steering rack to the knuckle. Inspect it for any play and replace if worn.
• CV Axle Nut: This is a single-use, torque-to-yield nut that should always be replaced with a new one.

Special Tools and Procedures

• Tools: You will need a ball joint separator, a large socket for the axle nut (often 35mm), a pry bar, and a quality torque wrench. A hydraulic press is required to install the new wheel bearing into the knuckle.
• Torque Specs: Using a torque wrench is critical for safety. While specs should be verified for your exact year, typical values for the lower control arm-to-knuckle bolts are a key focus of the 2014 recall.
• Alignment is Mandatory: After replacing a steering knuckle, a professional four-wheel alignment is absolutely required. Skipping this step will result in poor handling and rapid tire wear.

Cost Comparison for Steering Knuckle Replacement

The cost can vary based on your location and the parts you choose. Labor costs are significant due to the complexity of the job.

Note: Costs do not include the mandatory wheel bearing/hub or the recommended alignment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)