What Causes the Buzzing Sound When the Steering Wheel Swings?
3 Answers
The reasons for the buzzing sound when the steering wheel swings: 1. Friction between plastic parts: The steering wheel is made of plastic, and during winter use, the surrounding temperature is low, causing the plastic to harden and produce noise, which is normal friction; 2. Abnormal noise from the steering wheel: If the noise comes from inside the steering wheel, it may be caused by the airbag clock spring; 3. Aging of the tie rod end: With prolonged use of the vehicle, the tie rod end ages, causing noise when turning the steering wheel; 4. Abnormal noise from the stabilizer bar. The car steering wheel is a wheel-shaped device that controls the direction of the vehicle, and its function is to convert the force applied by the driver to the edge of the steering wheel into torque and then transmit it to the steering shaft.
I've encountered this buzzing noise while driving before, mostly due to steering system issues. When you turn the steering wheel, vibrations transfer to certain components, making them prone to noise. Common causes include insufficient or aged power steering fluid, causing the power steering pump to malfunction, especially noticeable during low-speed turns or parking. Once I ignored this sound, and the steering became stiff, nearly causing a loss of control during a turn. It's advisable to first check the power steering fluid level; if it's low, replenish it with qualified fluid promptly. If the noise persists, it's best to visit a professional shop for a comprehensive inspection, as it might involve problems with the pump or pipelines. Don't underestimate this issue—prolonged neglect can lead to increased wear and double the repair costs.
As an enthusiast who frequently tinkers with cars, I believe the buzzing sound primarily stems from mechanical wear. When the steering wheel moves and produces noise, it could be due to loose or worn-out steering column bearings, causing vibration resonance. Electrical issues might also be at play, such as poor contact in wires near the steering wheel, leading to friction or short circuits that create a buzzing sound when the wheel is turned. You can perform a preliminary diagnosis yourself: gently shake the steering wheel while parked to locate the sound source and check if the power steering pump belt is slipping. If the noise worsens on bumpy roads, the tightness of steering components should be inspected. Promptly replacing bearings or adjusting the electrical system can resolve the issue—don’t wait until steering becomes stiff to address it. Remember, I’ve seen too many cases where simple problems escalate into major headaches.
