It sounds like rubber rubbing against metal. The dealer said it was probably just some rubber gasket that is where the steering column goes through the floor of the car. The problem is there sometimes, but will usually go away.

Has anyone else ever had this problem? Is it hard to replace the gasket?

 

This is a common problem - it is a bearing in the steering column that has gone dry and needs to be lubricated. Take it to the dealer and they should fix it under warranty (if you have on still...)

 

Yeah; alright, next oil change will have it done.

Got any page number in the Helms where I can look at the part? Just want to be familiar with stuff in case dealer gives me ****.