Why does the car make a rattling noise when turning?
3 Answers
Car turning with a rattling noise may be due to the following faults: Friction between plastic parts: Since the steering wheel is usually made of plastic parts, if the temperature drops, the plastic may harden and produce friction noise. Aging of the steering tie rod ball joint: If the steering tie rod ball joint is aged, it can cause the car's steering wheel to shake and make noise. This situation usually requires replacing the steering tie rod ball joint and performing a four-wheel alignment after replacement. Steering gear failure: If the abnormal noise is very loud when turning, it may be caused by excessive clearance in the steering gear matching gears, and the steering gear needs to be replaced.
The last time I encountered a similar situation was with an older SUV, and focusing on three key areas proved particularly effective. First, check the chassis linkage components—when the rubber bushings on the ball joints and lower control arms age and crack, they produce creaking noises during turns, especially noticeable in rainy weather. Next, inspect the outer CV boot on the half-shaft; if you spot oil stains or leaks, it means the metal components are grinding dry due to insufficient lubrication, requiring immediate replacement of the dust boot and re-greasing. Lastly, don’t overlook the stabilizer bar bushings—when these small parts wear out, body roll can cause friction and odd noises. I recall a Highlander at the dealership once had this issue, sounding eerily like plastic bags rubbing together. For diagnosis, lift the vehicle and have a mechanic rotate the steering wheel while listening. At a regular repair shop, replacing these bushings typically costs around a hundred bucks.
Common issues occur in the drivetrain, particularly with the gear rack meshing clearance in the steering column. My eight-year-old car had this problem - it made a clicking sound like gear teeth grinding when turning, and upon disassembly, we found loose steering gear mounting bolts. Another scenario involves the power steering pump; it emits a high-pitched squealing noise when the belt slips or fluid is low. Try turning the wheel while stationary to see if the abnormal noise becomes more pronounced. Worn suspension bushings can also cause metallic components to rub directly, producing a cracking sound. It's best to have a mechanic test drive over speed bumps, as symptoms become more apparent when the chassis twists.
