What Causes the Squeaking and Friction Sound in Audi Steering Wheel?
2 Answers
Introduction to the causes of squeaking and friction sound in Audi steering wheel: 1. Friction between plastic parts: Since the steering wheel is usually composed of plastic parts, if the temperature drops, the plastic may harden, naturally leading to friction sounds. 2. Abnormal sound from inside the steering wheel: If the sound comes from inside the steering wheel, the problem is most likely caused by the steering wheel's clock spring. Remove the clock spring and apply some grease to see if the sound persists. If it does, replace the clock spring. 3. Aging of the tie rod end: If the tie rod end ages, it can cause the steering wheel to shake and produce noise. In this case, the tie rod end should be replaced, followed by a four-wheel alignment. 4. Abnormal sound from the stabilizer bar: If the sound is not from the shock absorber, 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 on uneven roads. Loose bushings can be fixed by adding shims, while damaged ones must be replaced. 5. Abnormal sound from the shock absorber top bearing: Open the hood and listen to see if the sound comes from the top of the shock absorber to determine if it's from the shock absorber's top bearing. 6. Steering gear failure: If the noise is very loud when turning, it may be due to excessive gear clearance in the steering gear, which requires replacement. 7. Improper tension or aging of the power steering belt: For mechanical hydraulic power steering, if the belt is too loose or too tight or has aged, it can produce abnormal sounds. Adjust the belt tension or replace the belt.
When I used to drive an Audi A4, I encountered a squeaky steering wheel issue—the sound was like a mouse gnawing on something, which was quite annoying. I figured it might be due to a loose airbag module under the steering wheel, or aging and worn-out steering column bearings causing friction between metal and plastic, resulting in noise. It could also be the plastic covers rubbing against each other when turning. I tried inspecting it myself by first removing the steering wheel cover to check for any loose parts; tightening the screws might solve the problem. But if the bearings were damaged, they’d need replacement, and I’d recommend visiting a professional shop to check if the steering system lacks lubrication. While steering wheel noises might seem minor during daily driving, neglecting them could lead to steering failure, so regular maintenance is crucial—like checking steering components every six months to prevent long-term wear and tear. In the end, I got it fixed at a 4S shop, costing a few hundred bucks, but safety comes first.
