Why is there a strange noise when turning the steering wheel of a new car?
3 Answers
The reason for the strange noise when turning the steering wheel of a new car is the lack of lubrication in the steering column dust cover. Below is an introduction to the causes of friction noise when turning the steering wheel: 1. Lack of oil in the shock absorber's plane bearing: Listen near the hood to see if the sound comes from the top of the shock absorber. If it's the plane bearing making noise, you can apply some butter to it. If the noise persists after applying butter, replacement is the only option. 2. Loose stabilizer bar bushings: Check if the stabilizer bar bushings are loose or damaged. Loose or damaged stabilizer bar bushings not only cause noise when turning the steering wheel but also produce sounds when driving on uneven roads. Loose bushings can be fixed by adding shims, but damaged ones must be replaced.
I just got my new car, and there's a clicking noise every time I turn the steering wheel—it's really frustrating, especially since it's only been a few days since I picked it up. I asked a friend about it, and he said new cars can sometimes have minor issues, like insufficient lubrication in the steering system or a dust cover rubbing against something, likely due to improper assembly or part break-in. I looked it up online and found many owners sharing similar experiences—it might be related to a loose steering column or tires, but steering wheel noises often stem from the steering components themselves. For safety, I'm now avoiding sharp turns to reduce stress on the system and planning to take it to the dealership for a check-up. Luckily, the warranty covers free repairs, so that's a relief. I’d advise addressing such issues early—ignoring them could worsen into steering failures, increasing driving risks. Also, proper break-in habits during the new car period are crucial.
I've driven many cars, and steering wheel noises in new cars are often caused by lack of lubrication or loose components. When the tie rod ball joint lacks grease, it may squeak when turning, and dry dust boots can produce similar sounds. For a new car that's only been driven a few hundred kilometers, if the noise is accompanied by vibration, immediately check tire pressure or the suspension system. You can inspect the steering linkage yourself for foreign objects or loose screws, but don't force anything to avoid damaging the vehicle. It's recommended to visit a 4S shop for diagnosis, as they have equipment to check error codes. While steering noise may seem minor, continuous operation can lead to wear, potentially affecting steering response and creating safety hazards. After getting a new car, drive gently for the first few hundred kilometers and avoid aggressive maneuvers to reduce the likelihood of issues.
