What Causes the Steering Wheel to Make a Clicking Sound When Turning?
1 Answers
There are several reasons why the steering wheel may make a clicking sound when turning: 1. Friction between plastic parts: The steering wheel is usually made of plastic. In winter, when temperatures are low, the plastic hardens, which may cause a squeaking sound during use. This is normal friction. 2. Noise from within the steering wheel: If the squeaking sound comes from inside the steering wheel when turning, it may be caused by the clock spring (airbag coil). Remove the steering wheel's airbag clock spring and apply some grease to see if the noise persists. If the squeaking continues, the clock spring may be damaged and needs to be replaced. 3. Aging of the tie rod end ball joint: If the vehicle has been used for a long time, the tie rod end ball joint may age, causing the steering wheel to shake or make noise when turning. In this case, the tie rod end ball joint usually needs to be replaced, followed by a four-wheel alignment. 4. Noise from the stabilizer bar: After checking the vehicle's shock absorbers to rule out noise from them, inspect the stabilizer bar bushings for looseness or damage. If the bushings are loose, they may also cause noise when turning. This can often be fixed by adding shims, but if the bushings are damaged, they must be replaced to avoid affecting normal steering operation.
