Is It Normal to Hear Plastic Friction Sound When Turning the Steering Wheel?

[AsherLee]

If the friction is caused by plastic components, it is a normal phenomenon. However, if it is due to faulty parts, there could be potential safety hazards, and it is recommended to have it thoroughly inspected. Below are the reasons that may cause friction sounds when turning the steering wheel: 1. Friction between plastic components: Many parts of the steering wheel are made of plastic, which hardens in cold weather and may produce squeaky friction sounds when in contact. 2. Steering wheel airbag clock spring issue: The sound comes from inside the steering wheel. 3. Aging of the steering tie rod ball joint: In this case, besides unusual noises, it may also cause vibrations. 4. Loose or damaged stabilizer bar: If this part is faulty, the noise will not only occur when turning the wheel but also on rough road conditions. 5. Problem with the shock absorber's thrust bearing: Lack of lubrication in the shock absorber's thrust bearing can also produce unusual noises.

[VonLuna]

Having driven various cars, I can say that plastic friction sounds from the steering wheel are mostly not normal. Common causes include loose or aged plastic protective covers under the steering column causing friction noise; wiring harnesses or wires hitting plastic components as the wheel turns; or loosened airbag mounting points triggering abnormal sounds. In my experience, new cars might have slight breaking-in noises due to assembly imperfections, but older cars mostly suffer from wear issues. Long-term neglect can worsen friction, affecting steering precision or even leading to more serious jamming risks. Safety first—I recommend an immediate check: after parking, try gently shaking the steering wheel to locate the sound source; simple lubrication might help. It’s best to visit a professional repair shop for a thorough diagnosis, as the steering system is critical to driving safety—don’t risk major issues for minor ones. Regular maintenance with extra attention to these areas can prevent many troubles.

[OHolden]

It's quite common to hear plastic friction noises from the steering wheel when driving a daily commuter car, but it's usually not normal. The main causes could be the wiring harness at the base of the steering wheel rubbing against the plastic sheath or loose screws on the cover. I've encountered similar issues myself, especially in older cars, where the noise can be particularly annoying. While it doesn’t affect immediate driving, the noise tends to gradually increase. A simple solution is to bend down and check underneath the steering wheel, tightening any loose components or applying a bit of silicone grease to reduce the friction noise. The cost is minimal but helps prevent the issue from worsening. Although many cases can be temporarily addressed, for peace of mind, it’s more reliable to have a mechanic inspect it regularly—never take steering-related issues lightly.

[ElizabethLynn]

As a DIY enthusiast, I often encounter the plastic friction noise from the steering wheel, which is abnormal but manageable. The cause is usually the contact and friction between plastic components near the steering column and wiring. After parking, visually inspect whether the covers and wiring harnesses are loose. Try lubricating key points, but avoid sensitive airbag components to prevent accidents. Safety comes first—seek professional help if unsure. Avoid disassembling the steering column on your own to prevent escalating risks.

[DiCharlie]

When driving with family, the plastic friction sound from the steering wheel always puts me on alert. This is not normal and usually indicates aging or loose internal components, which pose significant friction hazards. Sudden noise interference during high-speed driving or turns may distract attention and affect control safety, especially for owners with children, making it an issue that cannot be ignored. I make it a habit to have technicians inspect the steering wheel area during every maintenance session, where simple tightening or lubrication can resolve the problem. Developing a regular maintenance routine can effectively prevent potential issues.