What Causes the Squeaking Noise When Turning the Steering Wheel While Parked?

[LaBenjamin]

The reasons for the squeaking noise when turning the steering wheel while parked are as follows: 1. Friction between plastic components: Since the steering wheel is typically made of plastic parts, and if the temperature drops, the plastic may harden, naturally leading to possible friction sounds. 2. Noise originating from inside the steering wheel: If the noise comes from inside the steering wheel, the issue is most likely due to the clock spring (spiral cable) in the steering wheel. Remove the steering wheel's clock spring, apply some grease, and check if the noise persists. If it does, replace the clock spring as it may be damaged. Be gentle when removing the steering wheel, or disconnect the airbag fuse to prevent the airbag from deploying.

[OCali]

When I first encountered the strange noise from the steering wheel, I was really panicked. Later, I found out that the most common cause is the sound of tires struggling against the road surface. Especially in smooth underground parking lots, the tread patterns rubbing against the ground during turns can produce creaking sounds, which can be completely ignored. If the sound comes from the engine compartment, it's likely due to a loose power steering pump belt or degraded power steering fluid. Last time my car made a loud noise, and upon inspection, it turned out the steering gear dust cover had cracked, allowing sand and stones to get in and wear out the rack. Another time during winter cold starts, the steering made a gurgling noise, which was actually the sound of the shock absorber top rubber hardening and rubbing. I recommend paying attention to the location of the noise; sharp sounds near the front wheels are often caused by lack of lubrication or wear in the steering tie rod ball joints.

[DeAiden]

With twenty years of auto repair experience, I've seen countless cases of steering noise when parking. If you feel a buzzing vibration under your feet while turning, it's almost certainly a failed steering column bearing. A clicking sound below the steering wheel usually indicates a loose clock spring or combination switch. Pay attention to the sound frequency: a consistent squeaking noise is 80% likely caused by aging power steering pump belt slippage, while a clunking sound that changes with steering angle might point to outer CV joint wear. Some owners try to save money by only replacing the dust boot, but when internal gears wear out, the entire steering rack must be replaced. Never recklessly spray WD40 - it will corrode rubber components and make things worse. When detecting abnormal sounds, first check front wheel bearing clearance and brake pad retraction before considering steering gear issues.

[LauraMarie]

My little Fit started making a squeaky rubber friction sound when turning the steering wheel last year, which turned out to be normal tire-ground contact noise. The mechanic taught me a diagnostic method: with the engine off, twist the steering wheel left and right—if the abnormal noise persists, it indicates a mechanical issue. The most common fault point is the steering column universal joint; lack of lubrication here causes a dry creaking sound. For older cars with hydraulic power steering, a low fluid reservoir or leaking hoses can also produce a humming noise. Recently, I noticed a clicking sound like bouncing marbles from the left front wheel when steering stationary, which was traced to a loose tie rod end. It's advisable to have the mechanic tighten all steering system bolts during routine undercarriage inspections.