What Causes Steering Gear Noise on Bumpy Roads?
2 Answers
The causes of steering gear noise on bumpy roads are: 1. Lack of lubrication in the steering column, resulting in high friction; 2. Insufficient power steering fluid; 3. Issues with the universal joint; 4. Aging and hardening of the rubber bushings on the chassis suspension stabilizer bar links; 5. Failure of the thrust bearing; 6. Malfunction of the power steering pump or contaminated power steering fluid. The steering gear, also known as the steering box, is a crucial component for the steering function of a vehicle and an important guarantee for driving safety. Regular inspection of the vehicle's steering gear should include: 1. Checking the condition of the protective covers on both sides and the connection protective covers between the upper part of the steering gear and the universal joint; 2. Inspecting the tightness of the power steering pump belt; 3. Checking for any oil leaks at the hydraulic system pipe connections.
After driving for so many years, I've seen quite a few cases where the steering wheel rattles on bumpy roads. The most common cause is a loose tie rod end—when metal parts knock against each other, they make a clicking sound. Excessive play in the rack inside the steering gear is another culprit, especially noticeable with a thudding noise on rough roads. Then there's that squeaky, creaky sound, which is often due to worn or cracked stabilizer bar bushings—hardened rubber loses its cushioning effect. A failed thrust bearing on top of the shock absorber can also cause noise, particularly a harsh screech when turning over bumps. I recommend having a mechanic lift the car and shake the wheels to check for play in the tie rods and inspect the condition of the bushings. If these minor issues aren't fixed promptly, the car may feel unstable at high speeds.
