What causes the abnormal noise when turning the S60 steering wheel?
2 Answers
S60 steering wheel abnormal noise during turning can be caused by issues such as a faulty clock spring or friction between the steering column and floor mats. Faulty Clock Spring: If the noise is coming from inside the steering wheel, it is mostly due to interference from the clock spring inside the steering wheel. Remove the steering wheel clock spring and apply some grease to see if the noise persists. If it still makes noise, replace the clock spring as it may be damaged. Friction Between Steering Column and Floor Mats: If the abnormal noise is heard from below the steering wheel when turning, check the steering column and car floor mats. This is often caused by oversized aftermarket floor mats that come into direct contact with the steering column. As the steering column rotates, friction occurs, and if lubrication is insufficient, it will produce noise. In this case, simply applying some lubricating oil will suffice. Lack of Lubrication in Shock Absorber Top Bearing: If the abnormal noise is heard from outside the car when turning the steering wheel, it may be due to insufficient lubrication in the shock absorber's top bearing. Open the hood and listen to see if the noise is coming from the shock absorber's top mount to confirm the source. If it is indeed due to lack of lubrication in the shock absorber top bearing, applying some grease can help. If the noise persists after greasing, replacement is necessary.
As someone who frequently works on car repairs, I've encountered quite a few cases of steering wheel noise in the S60. The most common causes are wear or lack of lubrication in the steering column bearings, resulting in a creaking sound when turning the wheel; or loose ball joints or control arms in the front suspension, which can produce metallic knocking noises during turns. Additionally, faults in the electric power steering system can cause the motor to emit a buzzing sound. My suggestion is to start with the simplest approach: check the grease condition in the lower part of the steering wheel yourself and add some specialized lubricant if possible. If the noise persists, it might be due to aging internal components, requiring disassembly for inspection. Don't underestimate this issue—if steering noise isn't addressed promptly, the entire steering system could fail, leading to more expensive repairs. It's best to visit a reputable repair shop as soon as possible, as safe driving is paramount. Don't hesitate; the sooner you get it checked, the better.
