What Causes the Clicking Noise When Turning the Steering Wheel?
3 Answers
There are several reasons why a car makes a clicking noise when turning the steering wheel: 1. Sound from the turn signal reset: If the turn signal is activated while turning, the noise might be from the rebound clip of the automatic reset mechanism of the turn signal. The driver should verify this, as it is a normal occurrence. 2. Noise from the steering column dust cover: Lack of lubrication in the steering column dust cover can cause friction noise. Applying some grease inside the dust cover should eliminate the noise. 3. Noise coming from the steering wheel: If the noise originates from the steering wheel, it is likely due to the clock spring (spiral cable) inside. Remove the steering wheel, apply grease to the clock spring, and check if the noise persists. If it does, the clock spring may need replacement as it could be damaged.
Last month when I was driving and turning the steering wheel, I also heard a clicking sound, especially noticeable during turns. At first, I thought it was gravel scraping on the road, but later I realized it happened whenever I moved the steering wheel. I looked it up and found out it might be due to wear in the steering tie rod ball joint—when the gap gets larger, it makes a clicking noise. It could also be loose or aging internal parts in the steering gear. If not fixed in time, the steering might become less responsive, which could be dangerous at high speeds. I quickly went to the repair shop for a check, and the mechanic confirmed it was a tie rod issue right away. Spending a few hundred to replace the part solved the problem. Driving safety is the top priority, and unusual noises shouldn’t be ignored. Always pay attention to whether the steering feels stable, and if there’s any abnormality, stop and investigate immediately.
There is a clicking sound when turning, which I have experienced a few times in my friend's car. Common causes include wear and tear on the steering linkage or misalignment of internal gears in the steering gear. Increased clearance due to wear can lead to impact noises. It could also be caused by loose chassis connection screws or aging of the shock absorber top mount. Driving for a long time under these conditions can accelerate part damage and increase the risk of steering failure. A simple self-check method is to slowly turn the steering wheel while parked to locate the source of the sound, but DIY repairs are not recommended as they involve safety components. It's best to visit a professional shop for instrument diagnosis, tightening, or part replacement. Regular maintenance can help detect potential issues early.
