How to Deal with Steering Wheel Noise?
2 Answers
Solutions for steering wheel noise include: 1. Lubricate the steering column; 2. Replenish power steering fluid; 3. Replace the universal joint; 4. Replace the suspension stabilizer bar link bushing; 5. Replace the plane bearing; 6. Replace the power assist system. The function of the steering wheel is to convert the force applied by the driver on the edge of the steering wheel into torque and transmit it to the steering shaft. It mainly consists of a skeleton, foam, and corresponding mounting clips or screw holes for the driver airbag (DAB). Causes of steering wheel noise include: 1. Unlubricated steering column with high friction; 2. Lack of power steering fluid; 3. Universal joint malfunction; 4. Aging suspension stabilizer bar link bushing; 5. Plane bearing failure; 6. Power assist system failure; 7. Abnormal wear on the brake disc and brake pad surfaces.
When I used to drive a used car, I often encountered squeaky steering wheels, which were not only irritating but also affected my driving mood. I would first manually check under the steering wheel for any debris, such as dropped coins or accumulated dust, and clean it thoroughly to see if that resolved the issue. If that didn’t work, it might be due to a lack of lubrication in the steering shaft. I’d buy a specialized silicone-based lubricant and spray it on the joints, being careful not to spray it on the electronic power steering components to avoid malfunctions. If there was a 'clicking' sound or continuous grinding, it could indicate wear in the tie rods or bearings, requiring a timely visit to a professional shop for diagnosis and repair with specialized tools. Trying to fix it myself could lead to bigger problems, like heavier steering or even loss of control, which would be time-consuming and dangerous. I learned my lesson the hard way and later developed a habit of cleaning the steering wheel area every quarter, adding dust covers and lubrication to prevent minor issues from becoming major hazards—saving money and ensuring safety.
