What Causes the Friction Sound When Turning the Steering Wheel?
3 Answers
When turning the steering wheel, the friction sound is generally caused by the relative movement between the dust cover at the bottom of the steering column and the steering column, resulting in friction interference noise. Below is relevant information: 1. Steering Wheel: A wheel-shaped device used to control the direction of vehicles such as 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. 2. Steering Column: The steering column is the component that connects the steering wheel to the steering gear in the steering system. Through the steering column, the driver transmits torque to the steering gear, driving the steering gear to achieve steering. Common types of steering columns include hydraulic power steering columns, electro-hydraulic power steering columns, and electric power steering columns, each with different systems.
When I turn the steering wheel, I hear a friction sound that feels like something is stuck in the steering column, probably because the bearings or steering gear components inside lack lubrication. I've tried checking it myself several times and noticed it's more obvious after rainy days or prolonged parking, likely due to rust caused by moisture seeping in. If not addressed promptly, the sound will get louder, and the steering wheel will become harder to turn, affecting driving safety. Next time this happens, I can try adding some grease to the bottom of the steering wheel first, but the best solution is to have a professional mechanic check the power steering fluid and the entire steering system to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Usually, pay more attention to unusual noises before driving, and have the repair shop check the steering mechanism during regular maintenance. Spending a little money on maintenance now can save a lot on repairs later.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've encountered the issue of steering wheel friction noise multiple times. Common causes include: 1) worn suspension bushings or ball joints near the tires, and 2) problems with the power steering system. This noise is often accompanied by less smooth steering wheel rotation, especially noticeable during slow turns. My personal approach is to first listen for the source of the sound - if it's coming from the wheel area, it's likely due to aging suspension components; if it's from the steering column, it might indicate internal gears lacking maintenance. I recommend promptly checking if the power steering fluid is sufficient, and trying to add lubricant if needed. If left unrepaired, worsening wear can not only make the noise more annoying but also affect steering precision, potentially leading to loss of control in severe cases. Therefore, don't ignore unusual sounds - get it checked as soon as possible to ensure driving safety.
