What Causes the Squeaking Sound When Turning the Steering Wheel to the Left?
3 Answers
When the vehicle turns left or right, a "squeaking" friction sound occurs under the steering wheel, resembling the sound of rubber rubbing. This sound appears both when turning the steering wheel while stationary and while driving. The primary cause of this sound is interference friction between the drive shaft and the dust cover. There are two main reasons: 1. The dust cover is installed at an incorrect angle, causing abnormal friction. 2. There is a lack of grease in this area. Whether stationary or moving, if the sound is heard from below the steering wheel when turning it, the steering column dust cover should be inspected. A lack of lubrication in the steering column dust cover can cause dry friction sounds. Applying some grease inside the dust cover will eliminate this sound.
Steering wheel noise is a common issue, and my old car had it too—it would squeak when turning left, which was quite annoying. Based on my years of driving experience, it's mostly due to a lack of lubrication in the steering system, such as dry friction at the steering column joints or components. It could also be caused by worn ball joints or loose connections, which deteriorate over time due to driving vibrations. I ignored the problem last time, and after a few days, the noise got worse—it almost led to an accident. Later, at the repair shop, the mechanic fixed it just by adding some grease, saving me the cost of replacing parts. Check your tire pressure and suspension; sometimes uneven tire pressure can strain the steering column and cause noise. Don’t delay—regular maintenance and lubrication can prevent this. Safety first; steering noise isn’t a minor issue—get it checked promptly.
The steering wheel makes a squeaking sound when turning left, which sounds like friction. I've researched this type of mechanical issue. The problem lies in the steering column or dust boot area, where dry dust accumulation causes friction noise. Try spraying lubricant, but don't use random products—use specialized steering grease. Worn ball joints and tie rods can also produce noise, which is a common issue. Don't forget the power steering system; a loose belt on an electric motor or low oil in the pump can also cause noise. When inspecting it yourself, turn off the engine and listen to pinpoint the location, but don't force anything to avoid further damage. Using tools can make the job easier. Address the issue promptly once identified, as ignoring the root cause will lead to recurrence.
