What Causes the Steering Wheel to Make Abnormal Noises When Turning Left or Right?
3 Answers
Car steering wheel makes abnormal noises when turning left or right due to the following reasons: 1. Unlubricated steering column with high friction; 2. Lack of power steering fluid; 3. Universal joint failure; 4. Aging of the chassis suspension stabilizer bar link bushings; 5. Planar bearing failure; 6. Power steering system failure; 7. Poor driving habits, such as excessive braking; 8. Abnormal wear on the brake disc and brake pad surfaces. Solutions for abnormal noises when turning the steering wheel left or right: 1. Lubricate the steering column; 2. Refill power steering fluid; 3. Replace the universal joint; 4. Replace the chassis suspension stabilizer bar link bushings; 5. Replace the planar bearing; 6. Replace the power steering system.
With years of experience in driving and car repairs, I've encountered numerous cases of abnormal steering wheel noises. These issues primarily stem from the steering system, with the most common cause being insufficient or deteriorated power steering fluid, leading to dry friction sounds when the pump operates. If there's a creaking noise, it might indicate inadequate lubrication in the steering column bearings, which can seize up over time. A clunking sound often suggests wear and looseness in the ball joints or tie rods, especially noticeable when turning the tires. It could also be due to loose chassis brackets causing resonance noises if not tightened promptly. Minor issues like a loose belt might produce a hissing sound. I recommend first checking the power steering fluid reservoir level; if it's below the standard, top it up with the same type of fluid. Don't ignore these symptoms—difficulty steering while driving can lead to loss of control. It's best to visit a professional shop for a lift inspection as soon as possible to prevent the problem from escalating. Replacing parts might only cost a few hundred dollars, but safety should always come first.
Last year, my old car made a clicking sound when turning. At first, I thought it was a minor issue, but it turned out the steering linkage was worn and loose. Such abnormal noises mostly come from lack of lubrication or aging components, such as rusted steering column bearings causing squeaking when turning, or friction caused by an imbalanced tire suspension system. Leaking power steering fluid can produce a fluid-flowing sound. I remember first checking the fluid level and belt tension, then trying to simply tighten some nuts. If the problem persists, parts replacement is necessary. Regular maintenance is crucial for daily driving—applying grease periodically can prevent issues. Don’t wait until the noise becomes loud to address it, as repairs will cost more and take longer.
