What Causes a Squeaking Sound When the Car Turns?
2 Answers
The reasons for a squeaking sound when the car turns are: 1. Aging of the steering tie rod ball joint; 2. Issues with the stabilizer bar, such as looseness or damage, which can cause noise not only when turning but also when driving on uneven roads; 3. Steering gear failure, usually caused by excessive gear clearance in the steering mechanism; 4. Slippage of the power steering pump drive belt, which reduces friction and causes the belt to slip on the pulley, leading to noise. Solutions: 1. Replace the steering tie rod ball joint and perform a four-wheel alignment afterward; 2. Replace the stabilizer bar; 3. Replace the steering gear; 4. Replace the power steering pump drive belt.
The other day I was chatting with a friend about the squeaking noise when turning the car. Having driven for over a decade, I know this is often caused by worn-out steering ball joints or bearings. When those components age and run out of lubrication, the metal friction creates squeaks under the turning force. Even worse is when the steering linkage becomes loose, reducing steering precision and increasing danger at high speeds. A failed shock absorber in the suspension system can also cause this - the car body sways unstably during turns, making noises like warning signals. I suggest you feel around the wheels; if there's vibration or noticeable heat, it's likely these parts are the issue. The safest approach is to visit a repair shop and let the mechanics diagnose it with proper tools. Don't delay until the steering fails completely - that would be serious trouble. Regular lubrication changes can prevent this, a small investment for peace of mind.
