What Causes the Steering Wheel Noise in the Magotan?
4 Answers
The causes of steering wheel noise in the Magotan are: 1. Friction between plastic components; 2. Noise originating from the steering wheel; 3. Aging of the tie rod end ball joint; 4. Noise from the stabilizer bar; 5. Steering gear malfunction; 6. Improper tension or aging of the power steering belt. The Magotan is a B-segment sedan under FAW-Volkswagen, with body dimensions of 4866mm in length, 1832mm in width, and 1464mm in height, a wheelbase of 2812mm, a top speed of 230km/h, and front-wheel drive. It is equipped with three engine options: 1.4TSI, 2.0TSI (low-power version), and 2.0TSI (high-power version).
I've driven cars for many years, and there are several common causes for steering wheel noises that you can consider. For example, wear and tear on the steering column bearings can lead to dryness or increased clearance over time, causing a squeaking sound when turning. Or, the internal connecting cables inside the steering wheel might have loosened, producing faint friction noises when steering. I remember once encountering a similar issue on the highway—it turned out to be a cracked and aged rubber bushing on the steering linkage, causing direct metal-to-metal contact. These minor issues might seem insignificant at first, but if left unaddressed, they could affect steering precision, especially when navigating curves, increasing the risk of losing control. I recommend car owners conduct a simple self-check first: gently turn the steering wheel while stationary to locate the source of the noise. If you feel any stiffness along with the noise, it's best not to force it and instead drive directly to a nearby repair shop for a professional inspection to prevent the problem from escalating.
There are quite a variety of reasons for abnormal noises in the steering wheel, commonly issues within the steering system. For example, damage to the universal joint in the Magotan's steering column, due to long-term use or insufficient lubrication, can produce a rattling sound; or wear in the internal bearings of the power steering motor, causing high-frequency noise. If the abnormal noise occurs during low-speed turns, it might also be caused by loose tie rod joints. I've personally dealt with similar cases—first checking for abnormal vibrations when turning the steering wheel, then testing how the noise changes under different road conditions can help preliminarily identify the fault point. Regular maintenance, such as periodic lubrication of related components, can prevent the problem from worsening. If the abnormal noise persists, it's best to use a diagnostic tool to read the fault codes to avoid overlooking potential risks that could affect driving control.
Car steering wheel noise should never be taken lightly as it relates to driving safety. It could be caused by a damaged bearing in the steering column, producing noticeable friction sounds when turning; or faulty internal components in the electric power steering system, generating a buzzing noise. If not repaired promptly, severe cases may lead to impaired steering. I recommend that owners stop and inspect immediately upon detecting any noise, avoiding the risk of continued driving. Seek professional repair shops to diagnose the cause and address it promptly to ensure safety.
