Why is there a squeaking noise when turning the steering wheel to full lock?
3 Answers
Steering wheel squeaking noise when turning to full lock is caused by friction between plastic components, friction between the steering column and floor mats, failure of the clock spring inside the steering wheel, or leaking of the steering gear dust cover. Below are detailed explanations: Friction between plastic components: The steering wheel consists of various plastic parts. When turning, if the gaps between these parts are too small, friction will occur. This usually resolves after some break-in period. Friction between steering column and floor mats: This is mainly caused by oversized aftermarket floor mats that come into direct contact with the steering column. Adjusting the position of the mats or replacing them can solve this issue. Failure of the clock spring inside steering wheel: This could be due to a broken clock spring or loose clock spring connector. Replacing or securing it should fix the problem. Leaking steering gear dust cover: Replacing the dust cover or reapplying grease can resolve this issue.
I've been driving for ten years and have encountered the situation where the steering wheel makes a hissing sound when turned to the full lock position several times. The first time it happened, it startled me, and I thought it was some major issue, but it turned out to be a lack of oil in the power steering pump. This noise sounds like a fine friction sound, especially when making low-speed turns or parking, persisting after turning the wheel to full lock. There are many common causes, such as low or dirty power steering fluid, aging or loose belts, dry and unlubricated ball joint connections, or even wear and tear of internal components in the steering gear. In my case, adding some power steering fluid reduced the noise, but it's best not to ignore it. If the steering becomes particularly heavy or the noise gets louder, it's advisable to visit a repair shop promptly to avoid complete failure of the steering system affecting safety. Regularly checking the power steering fluid level, taking a quick look every month, can help reduce the occurrence of faults. I suspect your issue might also be related to the fluid, but other component failures can't be ruled out. In any case, getting it fixed sooner is more prudent.
From a fault perspective, the squeaking sound when the steering wheel is turned to the limit is usually related to the power assist system. When the power steering pump has insufficient pressure, internal operation becomes uneven, producing friction noise; it could also be due to loose or slipping belts, or aging and cracking; lack of lubrication in the steering column universal joint can also cause squeaking; if the power steering fluid is leaking or severely contaminated, the noise becomes more pronounced. I recommend first checking the fluid level in the power steering reservoir—top it up if the dipstick shows it's low, or replace the fluid if it's dirty. Next, identify the source of the sound—if it's coming from the belt area, check the tension or replace the belt. If the issue persists, a professional technician should inspect the internal components of the steering system with specialized tools. Regular maintenance, such as applying lubricant to the joints, can extend the lifespan of these components. Ignoring such noises long-term may lead to complete failure of the power assist system, resulting in higher repair costs. Addressing it early saves money and ensures peace of mind.
