What are the causes of steering wheel bumping noises?
2 Answers
Causes of steering wheel noises mainly include the following: 1. Unlubricated steering column with high friction. 2. Check the power steering fluid. 3. Inspect the universal joint for issues. 4. Aging and hardening of the rubber bushings on the suspension stabilizer bar links. 5. Damage to the thrust bearing. Below are the correct methods for steering: 1. Avoid turning the steering wheel while stationary; try to steer only after the vehicle is in motion. Stationary steering should only be used occasionally in special circumstances for maneuvering out of tight spots. 2. After the vehicle is parked, return the steering wheel to the center position to avoid placing load on the suspension system and tires. 3. When making a U-turn, try to avoid turning the steering wheel to the lock position.
The steering gear makes abnormal noises when going over bumps. I suspect it's mostly due to looseness in the steering system or suspension components. For example, parts like the tie rod or ball joints can wear out over time or due to poor road conditions, creating gaps that cause squeaking noises when the car hits bumps. Another possibility is the shock absorbers—if they fail, the insufficient cushioning during bumps can cause the steering gear to make noises as well. Additionally, it could be a problem with the front suspension system. If components like the control arms or links are worn, excessive movement during bumps can affect the steering wheel position. I've encountered this situation once before—the noise was particularly noticeable when driving on rough roads. Later, at the repair shop, they found that the tie rod was loose, and tightening it fixed the issue. For daily driving, it's advisable to regularly check the chassis components and perform periodic maintenance to avoid bigger problems down the line. Otherwise, small issues can turn into major headaches, which just isn't worth it.