Why does the car make a scraping sound when turning?
3 Answers
The reason for the scraping sound when the car is turning is due to wear and failure of the outer CV joint of the drive shaft. Here are the relevant details: 1. Constant Velocity Joint: Commonly known as the CV joint, it consists of an inner joint and an outer joint. It serves as the rotating shaft that transmits power and ensures smooth power delivery during steering. Its failure can be diagnosed by methods like sudden acceleration and sharp turns. For instance, if you hear a metallic 'clicking' sound during sharp turns, it usually indicates damage to the outer CV joint. 2. Additional Information: Some car models use hydraulic power steering. When the steering wheel is turned to its limit, the hydraulic power pump operates under high load, which can produce noise. This is a normal phenomenon. It is recommended that drivers avoid frequently turning the steering wheel to its limit, as this can affect the lifespan of the power pump.
When I hear a scraping sound while turning, it's usually due to issues with the tires or suspension components. It could be caused by severely worn tires with flattened treads creating friction noise, or worn suspension ball joints and tie rods causing metal parts to rub against each other during turns. Check if the tire pressure is balanced, as uneven pressure on both sides can worsen the noise. Additionally, rusted brake discs or misaligned calipers might also produce abnormal sounds when turning. Whenever I encounter this, I first inspect the tire surface for debris like small stones stuck in the tread and clean them promptly. If the noise persists, don't ignore it as it can affect handling safety. I recommend visiting a professional repair shop for diagnosis to avoid greater losses. Regular maintenance checks of these components can effectively prevent such problems.
As a car owner, I've encountered a scraping-like noise when turning, and looking back, it happened not long after I bought the car, which made me extremely nervous. The sounds are mostly related to the suspension, such as aging shock absorbers or insufficient lubrication in the steering joints, causing uneven force and a squeaking noise when turning. It could also be a faulty wheel speed sensor, leading the system to misjudge and create friction. Later, I learned to check it myself: after parking, I would feel around the edges of the tires and the inner side of the wheels to see if there were any obvious dents or looseness—simple and convenient. If the noise persists, it's best to go to a repair shop immediately to avoid suspension deformation or loss of control. Usually, avoiding potholes while driving can extend the lifespan of the components.
