What Causes the Steering Gear Noise in the New Focus?
3 Answers
Reasons for steering gear noise in the New Focus: Lack of Lubrication: If the screws inside the steering wheel lack lubricant, you need to remove the steering wheel cover and add lubricant. This should ensure smooth operation on the tracks and pivot points. Steering Gear Malfunction: The steering gear may also malfunction. If the steering is frequently turned to its maximum limit, it places a greater load on the steering gear, leading to severe wear and resulting noise. It is recommended to inspect and replace the faulty components. Insufficient Tire Pressure: Uneven tire pressure in the left front or right front tire can cause the car to pull to one side, leading to unbalanced wheel bearings and misaligned steering gear, resulting in noise and pulling.
I've run a repair shop for many years and dealt with numerous cases of steering gear noise in the new Focus. The most common issue is insufficient lubrication in the steering column causing gear friction sounds. Lack of oil leads to direct metal-to-metal contact, producing squeaking noises. Another cause is component wear, such as aging steering tie rod ball joints or damaged bearings, which create clunking sounds during turns. If the power steering pump fails, it can produce rattling noises, especially noticeable when the electric power assist module malfunctions. Loose suspension components like shock absorbers may also indirectly affect steering sounds. I recommend first checking the fluid level and replenishing with dedicated power steering fluid if dry. If the noise persists, it's best to visit a professional shop for diagnostic equipment analysis - don't cut corners with DIY fixes as potential risks might be overlooked. Steering failure is a serious matter. Regular lubrication of the steering system during maintenance can prevent many issues.
My new Focus also had steering rack noise before, with scary creaking sounds while driving. I found out it was due to dust entering and grinding the gears after the dust cover tore, making a sand-scraping noise. It could also be loose mounting screws causing rattles on bumpy roads. If the power steering is leaking or has insufficient pressure, it may produce gurgling sounds. I remind my friends not to ignore any unusual noises—pull over immediately to check, as it might lead to loss of control. Now I’ve learned to locate issues by sound; during sharp turns, I can usually guess the cause based on where the noise comes from. But it’s still best to let a mechanic diagnose it with tools—safety first. Also, remember to clean undercarriage dust during car washes to reduce wear.
