What Causes Noise in the Steering Gear?
3 Answers
Reasons for noise in the steering gear: Lack of Lubrication: If there is a lack of lubrication in the screws inside the steering wheel, you need to remove the steering wheel cover and add lubricating oil. This should allow smooth movement in the track and pivot areas. Steering Gear Malfunction: The steering gear might also malfunction. Normally, if the steering wheel is turned too sharply while turning, it puts a greater load on the steering gear, leading to severe wear and resulting in abnormal noises. It is recommended to inspect and replace the faulty components. Insufficient Tire Pressure: Uneven tire pressure in the left front or right front tire can cause the car to pull to one side, leading to unbalanced wheel bearings, misaligned steering gear, and resulting in abnormal noises and pulling.
I've found that noises in the steering gear are often due to issues with the steering system. For example, if the steering column connection is loose, it will creak when turning the wheel. It could also be that the power steering pump is low on oil, causing louder noises when the pump operates. If your car's power steering feels less responsive, you should check the fluid level. Additionally, worn universal joints or steering knuckles under the chassis can produce clunking sounds, as these parts are heavily affected by road vibrations. I've dealt with similar issues myself and recommend first checking if there's any wobble in the steering wheel—if so, pull over immediately. During routine maintenance, don’t forget to inspect the quantity and quality of the steering fluid to prolong component lifespan; don’t wait until the noise worsens and affects safe driving. Promptly visit a reputable repair shop and have a mechanic use a stethoscope to pinpoint the exact noise source to rule out major faults.
There are various reasons for steering gear noise. Based on my years of driving experience, common situations include: severely worn steering gears or racks producing metal friction sounds when driving over bumps; loose or damaged tie rod ends causing intermittent sounds when turning the steering wheel left or right. Secondly, poor lubrication in the steering system can easily cause noise, such as dried-up lubricant, which is more prone to problems during high summer temperatures. Additionally, vehicle aging can lead to rust or corrosion in chassis connection parts, resulting in excessive clearance. For safety, avoid high-speed driving as soon as you notice the noise getting louder. Don't underestimate these noises—they may indicate a risk of steering failure. It's best to have a professional shop conduct equipment testing to ensure safe driving.
