What Causes the Clicking Sound When Turning the Steering Wheel in a 2012 Highlander?
4 Answers
The clicking sound when turning the steering wheel in a 2012 Highlander may be caused by the following reasons: 1. Noise from the shock absorber top bearing: If the clicking sound occurs when gently shaking the steering wheel while stationary, it is likely due to insufficient lubrication in the shock absorber's top bearing. 2. Noise from the stabilizer bar: Check if the stabilizer bar bushings are loose or damaged. Loose or damaged stabilizer bar bushings can cause noise not only when turning the steering wheel but also when driving over uneven roads. 3. Noise from the steering column dust cover: If the noise comes from below the steering wheel, it might be due to the steering column dust cover. Lack of lubrication in the dust cover can cause friction noise. 4. Noise from inside the steering wheel: If the noise originates from within the steering wheel, it is most likely caused by the clock spring (spiral cable) of the airbag.
After driving for so many years, I've encountered quite a few cars that make a creaking sound when turning the steering wheel, especially my 2012 Highlander. The common causes are excessive clearance in the steering column—over time, the bearings inside wear out and become loose, causing a creaking noise when turning. Additionally, if there's an issue with the power steering pump, it can produce a similar sound, especially noticeable during turns. Aging chassis components, such as loose tie rod ends or steering linkages, can also lead to such abnormal noises. I recommend checking these areas first for any signs of oil leakage or looseness. Safety comes first; if you encounter this issue, don't push it—just take it to a repair shop to replace the faulty part. Usually, avoid turning the steering wheel too aggressively and apply lubricant regularly for maintenance to extend its lifespan. The Highlander offers a comfortable ride, but its chassis subsystems require careful inspection as they age to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
From a technical perspective, the creaking sound when turning the steering wheel in the 12th-generation Highlander is mostly caused by mechanical wear. Aging steering column bearings with excessive clearance or insufficient lubrication in the power steering pump's internal gears can produce this noise. On the chassis side, loose tie rods or ball joints are the primary culprits, especially when turning the wheel on bumpy roads. Having inspected similar vehicles, I've found that suspension system failures can also contribute, such as loose shock absorber top mount bolts. You can manually shake the wheels to listen for the source of the noise, but avoid disassembling components randomly. The key is to use professional diagnostic tools, like getting the power steering system pressure tested at a 4S shop. Refreshing the power steering fluid can alleviate some friction noises and prevent similar failures. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid overlooking these details that affect overall driving smoothness.
When my 2012 Highlander makes a clunking sound while turning, I'm genuinely concerned about safety. It could be due to loose steering linkage or worn ball joints, causing a creaking noise when turning; issues with the power steering pump or steering column bearings can also produce similar symptoms. Don't underestimate this noise—over time, it can affect handling. I recommend not delaying and taking it to a professional shop for inspection and repair. In daily driving, avoid sharp turns to reduce stress on the chassis. When washing the car, clean the steering area to prevent dust from accelerating wear. Simply put, prioritize safety and get it repaired promptly.
