What Causes the Friction Sound When Turning the Mercedes Steering Wheel?
4 Answers
Small car steering wheel turning with abnormal noise may be due to steering wheel issues or stabilizer bar problems. Steering wheel issues: If the abnormal noise comes from inside the steering wheel, the problem is most likely caused by 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. Be gentle when removing the steering wheel, or disconnect the airbag fuse to prevent the airbag from deploying. Stabilizer bar problems: If the noise is not coming from the shock absorber, check if the stabilizer bar bushings are loose or damaged. Loose or damaged stabilizer bar bushings will not only cause noise when turning the steering wheel but also when driving on uneven roads. Loose stabilizer bar bushings can be fixed by adding shims, but if they are damaged, they must be replaced.
I've also experienced the friction noise from the steering wheel. When turning the steering wheel of my old Mercedes-Benz, there was always a squeaking or rustling sensation. After careful inspection, I found that it might be due to insufficient lubrication in the steering column bearing causing friction. The steering system in Mercedes-Benz cars is designed with precision, and if the lubricating grease dries up over long-term use, it can lead to unusual noises. Another possibility is wear in the universal joint of the intermediate shaft, where metal contact causes friction sounds. If the clock spring contacts under the steering wheel are also aging, the noise becomes even more piercing. I suggest first checking the lower part of the steering column yourself and applying some lithium-based grease to see if it alleviates the issue. However, don't push it too far—the electronic power steering in Mercedes-Benz is sensitive, and once the noise increases or the steering effort becomes heavier, it can be dangerous on the road, ranging from unstable driving to loss of control. It's best to visit a 4S shop or a professional auto repair shop for a thorough diagnosis. They can determine whether it's a component issue or external dust intrusion. Regular maintenance with emphasis on steering system lubrication can greatly prevent these annoying problems.
When driving a Mercedes-Benz, there is a friction noise from the steering wheel. I believe common causes include the need for lubrication in the steering column bearings, wear and tear of the universal joint, or poor contact in electronic components. My experience is that prolonged driving leads to insufficient lubrication, causing friction sounds. The Mercedes-Benz steering system is precise, and aging oil seals can result in oil leakage and insufficient grease. Another possibility is external factors such as road dust entering component gaps, producing a rustling sound. Initially, you can check the steering wheel's free play and rotate it to locate the source of the noise. If it comes from below the dashboard, it might be an issue with the clock spring. Do not ignore this, as steering difficulties can affect handling precision and increase the risk of accidents. It is recommended to address the issue early. Although Mercedes-Benz maintenance costs are high, safety comes first. When taking it to a professional shop for inspection, they will use tools to check if the steering angle sensor is functioning properly. Addressing these details early can prevent major repairs.
Steering wheel makes abnormal noise when turning, which I also encountered with my Mercedes. This is usually caused by friction due to lack of lubrication in the steering column bearing or damage to the universal joint. Mercedes models have heavy steering, which is prone to wear and tear, resulting in sounds like rumbling or squeaking. The check is simple: first, listen to where the sound is coming from, under the steering wheel or in the center. It could be dust accumulation or lack of oil, applying some lubricant yourself might help. But don't mess around with cars that have many electronic components, to avoid accidentally triggering the airbag system. Ignoring it could make the steering stiff and unsafe, so it's better to deal with it promptly. Regular cleaning of the steering area can prevent this.
