2007 Tahoe LTZ (2wd) with steering issue?

[MCF34]

I have a 2007 Tahoe LTZ with only 38,000 miles. Twice under warranty it made the 'groaning' noise while turning slowly and fixed under warranty. No other issue when the groaning occurred. Now it has developed 1/4" to 1/3" of play in steering wheel. The play is there whether the wheels are straight or turned any amount. No noise in steering though. Of course the car is out of warranty. I took it to dealer to have them check it out and they said "everything looks fine, something loose in steering column and this is just normal wear and tear". I don't buy this at all. Any suggestions??