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Here'* your ANSWER!

Here'* some GM inside info for you 2000 - 01 Bonneville owners out there.
Hot Tip #5:
Subject: Intermittent Squawk or Groan Noise from Steering System >>> 09/13/02
Vehicles Affected: 2000-01 Bonnevilles
Summary: Replace Steering Gear & High Pressure Hose Assembly.
This is a situation where the owner may comment that the steering system emits a load squawk noise at times when the steering is turned at low speeds. The likely cause for this issue is an internal steering gear resonance. To correct this condition, replace the components outlined in this hot tip. Note that these parts are for vehicles with specific options. Care must be taken to get the right parts for the application. This information only applies to cars with Magna-steer "E" that was installed in some models in the 2000 model year.
The steering gear for the 2001 Bonneville SSEi is now available and can be used to correct a squawk concern on a 2000 or a 2001 Pontiac SSEi. Use steering gear P/N 26099978. Steering gear will be substituted with an updated gear.
These parts went into production at the following VIN break points: H Body gear 1G2HZ541224100674.
Hot Tip #7:
Subject: Rear Brake Moaning Noise >>> 09/13/02
Vehicles Involved: 2000 - 01 Bonnevilles
Summary: Replace rear parking brake cables, and/or replace caliper bolt.
This condition may occur shortly after installing new rear brake pads as outlined in PSB 00-05-23-001.
This condition is isolated to very few vehicles and it is not related to the new brake pads outlined in the bulletin. The usual cause for this issue is either a binding caliper or the parking brake cable applying tension to the caliper. Binding calipers are the most likely cause of this condition.
Hot Tip #12:
Subject: Supplement to PSB #02-07-30-014 >>> 09/13/02
Vehicles Affected: 1997 - 2002 cars with 4T65E transmissions
Summary: Do not reuse spacer plate.
Product Service Bulletin # 02-07-30-0014 states that when the spacer plate requires replacement, it must be replaces by a new bonded spacer plate and gasket assembly.
This bonded gasket P/N 24217552 plate must be replaced anytime it is removed.
Do not reuse space plate and gasket.
Reusing the bonded gasket spacer plate will cause leakage problems and may effect the operation of the transmission.

I think that hot tip is different from what those of us with this problem are complaining about. I have'nt seen anything specifically mentioned in my car that suggests I have "magna steer", so I don't know if this pertains to me. I do know there is a TSB/Hot Tip that applies to lubrication of the assembly or something... Regardless, my Pontiac dealership is going to take care of it. I think those of us/you that are having this problem outside of warranty should make an attempt to work with your Pontiac dealership to get it resolved before contacting GM directly.