What Causes the Steering Wheel to Make a Clicking Sound When Turning?
2 Answers
The reasons for the steering wheel making a clicking sound when turning are: 1. The steering column is not lubricated, causing high friction; 2. Lack of power steering fluid; 3. Failure of the universal joint; 4. Aging of the rubber bushings on the chassis suspension stabilizer bar links; 5. Damage to the plane bearing; 6. Issues with the power steering system; 7. Poor driving habits, such as excessive braking; 8. Abnormal wear on the brake disc and brake pad surfaces. Precautions for using the steering wheel include: 1. Do not remove both hands from the steering wheel simultaneously; 2. The amplitude and speed of steering wheel rotation should match the turning angle of the car and the vehicle's speed; 3. Avoid turning the steering wheel when the car is stationary to prevent damage to the steering system and tire wear; 4. Keep the left and right hands at a reasonable distance apart on the steering wheel.
I noticed a clicking sound when turning the steering wheel, which is usually caused by loose steering column screws or bearing wear. I encountered this issue with my old car before—it made noise every time I turned, and at first, I thought it was minor. But later, the sound grew louder and became terrifying. After taking it to the repair shop, they found the screws were loose, and the mechanic tightened them—immediately, the noise was gone. If not addressed in time, it could lead to the steering system seizing up, posing a significant risk of losing control while driving. Long-term use or bumpy roads can accelerate wear, so I recommend regular lubrication and maintenance. For a simple DIY check, you can gently shake the steering wheel to feel for looseness, but it's best to have a professional conduct a thorough inspection—safety comes first.
