What Causes Steering Wheel Noise During the Break-in Period of a New Car?
4 Answers
Steering wheel noise during the break-in period of a new car is caused by friction between the components of the steering wheel and is considered normal. Here are some precautions to take during the break-in period: 1. Avoid emergency braking: Emergency braking not only shocks the braking system during the break-in period but also increases the impact load on the chassis and engine. It is best to avoid emergency braking within the first 300 kilometers of driving. 2. Avoid overloading: Running a new car at full capacity during the break-in period can damage the mechanical components. Therefore, within the first 1,000 kilometers of driving, the load should generally not exceed 75%-80% of the rated capacity. 3. Highway driving: Driving long distances during the break-in period increases the continuous working time of the engine, which can lead to mechanical wear. It is recommended to maintain a speed of 120 km/h with the engine RPM not exceeding 3,000. If the RPM exceeds 3,000, consider reducing the speed to keep the RPM at 3,000. During long-distance driving, take breaks at service areas for about ten minutes.
I just bought this new car, and during the break-in period, the steering wheel started squeaking, which is really annoying. It's especially noticeable when turning at low speeds, as if something is rubbing. I asked a car-savvy friend, and he said it might be that the new parts in the steering column aren’t properly lubricated yet, so adding some grease could help. Alternatively, the mounting screws might be a bit loose and just need tightening. During the break-in period, parts are still settling in, so such noises aren’t uncommon. But if the sound gets louder, it’s worth paying attention to, as it could affect steering safety. I plan to take it to the dealership in the next few days to have them check it out. Since it’s still under warranty, getting it fixed for free is better than letting a small issue turn into a big problem. While driving, I’ll pay more attention to where the sound is coming from and note the road conditions to help the mechanic pinpoint the issue faster.
I've seen many new car owners complain about steering wheel noises. During the initial break-in period of the first few hundred kilometers, some friction sounds from the steering system are normal - no need to panic. But identify the sound type: creaking may indicate insufficient lubrication in steering bearings, while squeaking could mean loose connections at the headlight switch. New components from the factory tend to be dry initially and often improve with mileage. However, if noises accompany difficult steering, be cautious. First check the owner's manual for break-in instructions, then test by turning the wheel stationary or driving at low speed. If still concerned, schedule professional inspection promptly - safety comes first.
Steering wheel noise during the break-in period of a new car is quite common, in my opinion. Possible causes include dry friction in the steering column, improper break-in of the electronic power assist module, or a loose small component. If the noise starts when turning left, it's likely a universal joint issue; if it's just a slight squeak, it may disappear on its own after driving 2,000-3,000 kilometers. In terms of operation, avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to give the system time to adapt. If the noise becomes louder or affects driving, immediately visit an authorized service center for inspection—don't try to tough it out to save money. During regular maintenance, remind the technician to pay extra attention to steering components to prevent potential issues.
