Why does the car make a creaking noise when turning?
4 Answers
Car making a creaking noise when turning may be caused by the following faults: 1. Friction between plastic parts: Since the steering wheel is usually composed of plastic parts, if the temperature drops, the plastic may harden and produce friction noise. 2. Aging of the steering tie rod ball joint: If the steering tie rod ball joint ages, it can cause the car's steering wheel to shake and produce noise. This situation usually requires replacing the steering tie rod ball joint and performing a four-wheel alignment after replacement. 3. Steering gear failure: If there is a very loud noise when turning, it may be caused by excessive gear clearance in the steering gear, requiring replacement of the steering gear.
The car makes a rattling noise when turning. My own car had a similar issue before, producing a harsh sound when steering. Common causes include loose parts in the steering system, such as aging or worn-out steering columns or power steering pumps, or problems with suspension components, like rusted or insufficiently lubricated ball joint bearings. Once, before a long trip, I noticed this sound and found out it was due to insufficient power steering fluid—topping it up fixed the issue. Additionally, frequent sharp turns can make these parts more prone to damage, so it's advisable to steer more smoothly to reduce noise. You can perform routine checks yourself by trying to identify whether the sound comes from the steering wheel or the chassis, and address it promptly to avoid potential hazards. Remember, unusual noises are not just annoying but can also affect safety. If they occur, it's best to get them checked by a professional shop as soon as possible to prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs.
When driving a manual transmission car, I always pay attention to abnormal noises. The creaking sound during turns is mostly due to issues with the braking system, such as uneven wear of brake pads or foreign objects stuck in them. Sometimes, it can also be related to the tires, like loose bearings or improperly tightened wheel hub bolts, which cause friction noises when turning. Last time, while helping a friend inspect their car, we encountered such a sound. After a thorough check, it turned out to be a cracked suspension spring. If left untreated, driving at high speeds could lead to dangerous vibrations. You can check for looseness by shaking the tires after parking or test driving on a slope. Regular maintenance is key—changing brake fluid and lubricating critical points periodically can significantly reduce the occurrence of such issues, making driving more worry-free and safer.
A rattling noise during turns is likely due to a damaged suspension ball joint or insufficient lubrication in the steering mechanism. These small components are prone to wear from potholes or water exposure, leading to rust and friction-induced rattling. As an experienced driver, I recommend a simple self-check: turn the steering wheel while stationary to locate the noise source. If the noise is loud, promptly inspect fluid levels and component connections. Don't delay repairs—steering failure is no trivial matter.
