What Causes the Squeaking Sound When Turning the Steering Wheel to the Full Lock Position?
3 Answers
Steering wheel squeaking when turning to the full lock position is primarily caused by: high friction in the steering column and lack of lubrication in the power source, which can be resolved by adding lubricating oil. Causes and solutions for steering wheel noise: 1. Aging of the steering tie rod ball joint: Replace the ball joint of the steering tie rod and perform a four-wheel alignment. 2. Leaking dust cover of the steering gear: Reinstall the dust cover or repack with grease. 3. Steering gear malfunction: This may be due to excessive clearance between the steering gear and the gear, requiring replacement of the steering gear. 4. Other scenarios: Additionally, if abnormal sounds from outside the vehicle are heard when turning the steering wheel, it might be due to insufficient engine oil in the shock absorber's flat bearing. Simply open the engine hood and listen for the sound to identify the issue.
I've been driving for over ten years, and my old family car had similar issues. The most common cause of squeaking when turning the steering wheel all the way is wear and tear on steering system components, such as dry ball joints or bearings that create friction noise due to aging. For cars with hydraulic power steering, it could also be due to low power steering fluid or a loose belt. Last time I encountered this, I first checked if there were any stones or debris stuck near the tires—cleaning them actually helped for a while, but the noise got worse over time, and I had to visit a repair shop to replace a ball joint. I suggest you don’t delay; addressing it early can prevent the danger of steering failure, especially during rainy days when turning can easily lead to skidding and accidents. Regular maintenance, like applying grease, can slow down component aging—simple and cost-effective.
I recently bought a car and soon discovered this annoying issue—it makes a creaking sound every time I turn the steering wheel to the limit, which really got me worried. A mechanic friend told me the possible causes could be a damaged ball joint, worn bearings, or a faulty sensor in the electric power steering system. If left unrepaired for a long time, it could affect handling, such as causing steering lag and increasing the risk of losing control. While driving, I avoided sharp turns, but that wasn’t a permanent solution. Later, I took it to a 4S dealership for inspection and found out the bearings were low on lubrication. It was fixed at a minimal cost. Safety comes first—addressing the issue early prevents bigger problems. It’s also good to pay attention daily to whether the noise worsens.
