What Are the Causes of Abnormal Noises When a Car Turns?
4 Answers
Car turning abnormal noises causes are as follows: 1. Friction between plastic components - The steering wheel consists of various plastic parts, and if the gaps are too small during rotation, abnormal noises may occur. 2. Friction between the steering column and floor mats - Sometimes, aftermarket floor mats may be too large and come into direct contact with the steering column, causing friction when turning. 3. Possible broken clock spring or improperly connected clock spring plug. 4. Worn steering tie rod end with excessive play - Replace the steering tie rod end, but remember to perform a wheel alignment after replacement. 5. Leaking steering gear dust cover - Replace the dust cover or reapply grease. 6. Steering gear malfunction - If abnormal noises occur when turning, it may be due to excessive gear clearance in the steering gear.
If you hear rattling or clunking noises when turning your car, it may indicate a problem with the suspension system. Loose ball joints are a common cause, producing abnormal sounds when the load increases during turns; worn steering gear can also create friction noises; damaged wheel bearings may produce harsh sounds when rotating; uneven tire wear can cause steering imbalance, generating noise from ground friction. It's recommended to first check for any loose parts under the chassis yourself, or visit a repair shop to inspect using a lift. Don't delay, as continued use may worsen steering system damage and compromise driving safety. I once experienced a ball joint issue myself - after replacement, the noise disappeared. The cost was minimal and the process straightforward. Regular cleaning of undercarriage dirt after car washes and periodic suspension maintenance can effectively prevent these troubles.
As a car repair enthusiast, abnormal noises during car turns are usually caused by aging steering gears, shock absorbers, or drive shafts. When the internal gear clearance of the steering gear increases, it produces a clicking sound during turns; worn-out CV joints in front-wheel-drive vehicles can cause power transmission issues, resulting in creaking noises during turns; deteriorated shock absorber top mounts can also generate friction noises. A simple diagnostic method is to listen for the noise location during low-speed turns—if the noise comes from the front wheels, it might be a bearing issue, while rear-wheel noises could indicate suspension ball joint problems. I often use a jack to lift the car and shake the tires to check for looseness, applying lubricant to the joints for temporary relief. However, serious issues like drive shaft damage require professional repair, as neglecting them could lead to breakdowns. It's advisable to inspect chassis components quarterly and replace worn parts promptly to extend the steering system's lifespan, saving both money and hassle.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I can't stress enough the importance of not ignoring abnormal noises when turning. Common causes include a faulty driveshaft, which produces a clicking sound under heavy turning force; loose ball joints that create a clunking noise; and aged tires that generate friction sounds against the road. These issues can lead to unstable handling and even unexpected loss of control. If you hear any unusual sounds, immediately slow down and pull over to perform a quick visual inspection. If no obvious looseness is detected, head to a repair shop as soon as possible. Never compromise on safety to save money or effort—safety always comes first.
