What Causes the Abnormal Noise When Turning the Steering Wheel While the Car is Stationary?
2 Answers
The causes of abnormal noise when turning the steering wheel while the car is stationary are: This sound could be tire noise, as every tire produces noise, though the timing and volume may vary, and it does not affect normal use; Incorrect front wheel toe-in causing wavy wear on the tire tread can also produce this noise; Worn wheel bearings may be the culprit; The noise could also stem from issues with rubber components like the stabilizer bar links and control arm bushings. The steering wheel is a wheel-shaped device used to control the direction of cars, ships, and airplanes. Its function is to convert the force applied by the driver to the edge of the steering wheel into torque, which is then transmitted to the steering shaft. It mainly consists of a frame, foam, and mounting clips or screw holes corresponding to the driver's airbag (DAB).
When turning the steering wheel while stationary, the car makes a creaking sound. I've encountered this several times, and the reasons are mostly simple yet crucial. I remember one instance was due to insufficient power steering fluid—opening the cap revealed it was nearly empty, and the noise disappeared after topping it up. Another time, it was due to aging front suspension shock absorbers, which produced friction sounds when turning. As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I recommend starting with the basics: after parking and before turning off the engine, turn the steering wheel to listen for noises coming from the engine bay or tire area. If the power steering fluid level is low, top it up promptly. If the chassis feels loose, tighten it with a wrench. Avoid aggressively turning the steering wheel while stationary, as it can damage the steering system. The sound may be small, but the warning is significant—delaying repairs could lead to steering difficulties and compromise travel safety.