What Causes the Steering Wheel to Make Noise When Turning?
2 Answers
The causes of noise when turning the steering wheel include: aging of the tie rod end ball joint, loosening of the stabilizer bar bushings, dirty power steering fluid, lack of lubrication in the shock absorber top bearing, etc. Specific explanations are as follows: 1. Lack of lubrication in the shock absorber top bearing: When turning the steering wheel, if the noise is heard from outside the vehicle, it may be due to the shock absorber's top bearing lacking lubrication. Simply open the hood and listen to see if the noise is coming from the shock absorber's top mount area to confirm. If the shock absorber top bearing lacks lubrication, applying some grease may help. If the noise persists after greasing, replacement is necessary. 2. Loosening of the stabilizer bar bushings: If the noise is not from the shock absorber's top bearing, check if the stabilizer bar bushings are loose or damaged. Loose or damaged stabilizer bar bushings can cause noise not only when turning the steering wheel but also when driving over uneven roads. Loose bushings can be fixed by adding shims, but if they are damaged, replacement is required. 3. Dirty power steering fluid: If the power steering fluid is too dirty, it increases the pressure in the power steering system, causing the power steering pump to produce a "buzzing" noise. It is essential to replace the power steering fluid promptly. 4. Aging of the tie rod end ball joint: If the tie rod end ball joint is aging, it can cause the car's steering wheel to shake and produce noise. In such cases, the tie rod end ball joint usually needs to be replaced, followed by a four-wheel alignment.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered steering wheel squeaking issues several times. The most common cause is lack of lubrication in the steering column universal joint - it creaks when turning, which can be fixed by spraying some lubricant yourself. Poor contact in the clockspring can also cause a rustling sound, but this requires removing the steering wheel to fix. Worn chassis bushings are more troublesome, causing clunking noises when turning, requiring parts replacement at a repair shop. Last time, my car had plastic friction sounds - turned out the steering wheel adjustment lever wasn't secured properly. My advice: don't panic when you hear strange noises. First try turning the wheel while stationary to locate the sound source. But if ignored long-term, the steering gear could actually fail, and repairs then would really hurt your wallet.
