Reasons for Noise When Turning Right but Not When Turning Left
4 Answers
Reasons for noise when turning right but not when turning left are: Lack of fluid: If the noise occurs when turning the steering wheel while stationary, producing a dull sound as if turning with great effort, it is likely the power steering pump. This is usually due to insufficient fluid, causing low pressure and air intake. Power steering belt: If the noise occurs when stationary or just starting to move, it may be due to an issue with the tension of the power steering belt. Sometimes, a slipping belt produces a sharp noise, while an overly tight belt results in a dull humming sound. Damaged shock absorber: Another cause could be damage to the shock absorber's pressure bearing, leading to a spring-like twanging sound, similar to plucking a musical instrument string. Additionally, the locking clip on the lower steering column may produce a clicking noise if deformed during steering. Universal joint corrosion: Corrosion in the universal joint of the lower steering column may allow smooth movement in only one direction, causing noise and irregular steering heaviness. Identifying the exact source of the noise makes it easy to fix, unless the part is irreparable.
I'm very familiar with this issue, having driven for decades and encountered common abnormal noises. When the steering makes noise turning right but not left, it's usually due to uneven wear on the right-side steering components. It could be worn ball joints or a cracked CV joint. Road conditions play a big role – frequent turns or rough roads put more stress on the right side, accelerating wear. My old car had this exact problem, starting with slight clicking sounds that gradually got louder. During repairs, we found the shock absorber top mount was also loose. Don't wait for major issues – inspect chassis components like tie rods and bearings regularly. Preventive maintenance helps. Safety comes first – right-turn noises affect control and could lead to dangerous loss of control. Get it professionally diagnosed and repaired immediately.
My car had the same strange issue, making a creaking sound when turning right but nothing when turning left. Searching online, I found it might be due to unbalanced suspension or a loose tie rod on one side. Personal experience: Initially thought it was a tire problem, but the noise persisted after changing tires, only to find out the steering ball joint was worn. The repair wasn't expensive, just a few hundred for a replacement part. Driving habits also play a role, like frequently parking on a slope, which accelerates wear. Now, I'm alert to any unusual sounds and regularly check the chassis components. Remember, small issues can escalate, like not fixing it could lead to steering wheel stiffness. My advice is to take action early and not delay.
Abnormal noise when turning right only is a common issue with the right-side steering system. It is usually caused by damage to the outer CV joint or looseness in the tie rod end. The concentration of pressure on one side during steering leads to the difference in noise. A simple check can be attempted: park and shake the tire to see if there is any looseness. However, DIY deep repairs are not recommended, as professional tools such as a multimeter are required. Common causes also include aging suspension bushings. Do not ignore it, as it can accelerate wear on other components and even affect driving safety. Have it repaired as soon as possible to avoid potential hazards.
