Why Does My Car Make Noises When Turning the Steering Wheel?
As your vehicle ages and accumulates miles, unusual noises during steering can become more common. These sounds often originate from worn suspension and steering components, loose linkages, mechanical system issues, or dirt and debris buildup in unexpected places. If you’ve ever questioned, “Why does my car make noises when I turn the steering wheel?”, you’re not alone. Identifying the cause of these noises is essential for maintaining vehicle safety and performance.
While some problems may be resolved through simple DIY adjustments, others require professional diagnosis and repair. Recognizing the symptoms early can help prevent further damage and costly repairs. Below, we explore common causes of steering noises, how to diagnose them, and recommended steps to address the issues effectively.
Common Causes of Unusual Noises During Steering
When your vehicle is functioning properly, steering should be smooth and silent. Any squealing, clunking, creaking, groaning, screeching, or whining sounds indicate that something isn’t operating as it should. These noises can vary in intensity and frequency, and understanding their origins can help pinpoint the underlying problem. Some causes are simple and quick fixes, while others necessitate detailed inspection by a mechanic.
- Worn Suspension Joints: Typically produce creaking, clunking, or popping sounds at lower speeds, signaling worn or deteriorated suspension components.
- Power Steering Pump Issues: A whining noise during slow turns may indicate a malfunctioning power steering pump or low fluid levels.
- CV (Constant Velocity) Joints: When you hear a crunching noise while turning at higher speeds, it often points to failing CV joints.
- Power Steering System Faults: Loud screeching or whining during turns can be caused by insufficient power steering fluid or a failing pump, sometimes remedied by fluid top-offs or more extensive repairs.
- Tie Rods: Loose or damaged tie rods can produce a clunking sound when steering, especially during sharp turns.
- Sway Bar Links: Poor handling accompanied by knocking noises may indicate defective sway bar links.
- Ball Joints: Progressive creaking or knocking that worsens over time often signals failing ball joints.
- Bushings: Worn or dry bushings in suspension components can cause creaking noises during steering maneuvers.
- Struts and Shocks: Bouncy or loose feelings over bumps, combined with noise, suggest worn or damaged shocks or struts.
Top 5 Steering-Related Noises and Their Causes
Not all steering noises are identical; each type can reveal different issues. Accurate identification of the sound is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Here are the most common steering-related noises along with their typical causes:
#1. Squealing
This high-pitched sound often occurs when turning the steering wheel and usually diminishes once you straighten the wheel. It’s commonly associated with the power steering system.
Possible Causes
The squeal often originates from the power steering pump or its belt, especially if the belt is slipping or the fluid level is low. Worn power steering pump internals can also produce this noise, which may be remedied by belt adjustment or replacement, or by refilling the power steering fluid.
#2. Grinding
Grinding or growling noises during steering are serious and demand immediate attention. These metallic sounds can be heard even over engine noise and typically indicate internal component issues.
Possible Causes
Such sounds may be caused by excessive wear in steering gear mechanisms, significantly worn wheel bearings, or compromised strut bearings. Diagnosing these issues often requires professional inspection and testing.
#3. Clunking
Clunking sounds, which can be faint or loud, resemble a hollow thud and often occur during sharp turns or when hitting bumps. These noises suggest loose or damaged components.
Possible Causes
Clunking generally results from wear in the articulating parts of the steering and suspension system, such as control arms, ball joints, or strut mounts. Excessive movement in these parts causes the knocking sounds during steering maneuvers.
#4. Knocking
Knocking sounds when turning are concerning and can vary from dull thuds to sharp metallic hammering. These noises are typically not engine-related but stem from suspension or steering component issues.
Possible Causes
The most common culprit is a damaged or worn sway bar link, which can cause knocking during cornering. Excessive wear in tie rods can also produce similar sounds, indicating the need for component replacement.
#5. Whining
Many drivers notice a whining noise when turning the steering wheel, which may be mild or loud depending on severity. The noise often correlates with power steering system health.
Possible Causes
Normal power steering systems emit a slight hum or whine during full lock turns. However, more pronounced whining during minor turns suggests low fluid levels or internal pump issues. Regularly check your power steering fluid and look for leaks.
Diagnosing Steering Noises: Step-by-Step Guide
Effective diagnosis involves systematic inspection. It’s advisable to have an assistant help during the process for better accuracy.
Step 1: Determine the Nature of the Noise
Identify whether the sound is squealing, grinding, knocking, or whining, and note when it occurs—during slow or fast turns, or at specific steering angles. Pinpointing the source helps narrow down potential causes.
Step 2: Check Power Steering Fluid
Inspect the fluid reservoir and ensure it’s at the proper level. Top off if necessary, and look for signs of leaks or contamination. Low fluid levels can cause squealing and whining noises.
Step 3: Examine Steering and Suspension Components
With the vehicle safely lifted or on a flat surface, visually inspect all steering linkages, tie rods, ball joints, control arms, and bushings for damage, excessive wear, or leaks. Have an assistant turn the steering wheel from lock to lock to observe movement and play.
Step 4: Replace Damaged Parts
Any worn, cracked, or damaged components should be replaced promptly. Lubricate all serviceable joints and ensure proper assembly.
Step 5: Inspect the Steering Rack and Gear
If noises persist after initial checks, professional inspection of the steering rack or gear assembly is recommended. Internal failures may require specialized tools and expertise.
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Steering System Longevity
Regular maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s steering and suspension components, helping to prevent noisy issues before they arise.
- Routine Power Steering Inspection: Check and top off power steering fluid at every oil change, and more frequently if leaks are detected.
- Leak Detection and Repair: Promptly address any signs of fluid leaks or loss to prevent damage to internal components.
- Component Wear Monitoring: Regularly inspect ball joints, control arms, tie rods, sway bar links, and bushings for signs of deterioration. Replace worn parts proactively.
- Lubrication: Grease all accessible joints during maintenance to reduce wear and noise.
- Shocks and Struts: Periodically inspect for fluid leaks and damping performance. Replace in pairs to maintain balanced handling and prevent abnormal wear.
Adhering to these maintenance practices ensures a smoother, quieter steering experience, and helps avoid costly repairs down the line.