Why does the car make noise when turning the steering wheel?

As vehicles age, they occasionally make strange noises due to wear and tear on the vehicle. These noises can be a warning sign that repairs are needed. If your car makes a noise when you turn the steering wheel, this could indicate a problem with your suspension or steering system.

Damage to your suspension or steering components can pose a significant risk to your safety and your vehicle. If you hear strange noises, we can help you figure out the cause and what to do about it. Read on to learn more about why your vehicle may be experiencing unusual steering wheel noises.

We also invite you to call us at (773) 219-1592 to schedule a service appointment. At Bucaro Brothers, we have been diagnosing and solving all types of automotive problems for over 35 years!

Reasons why cars make noise when turning

If you’re asking, “Why does my car make a noise when I turn a steering wheel?” the answer could be a worn part or a leak in the system. Below, we discuss some possible reasons for strange noises when you turn the steering wheel.

Power steering pump

If your power steering pump needs to be replaced, you may notice several signs. You may hear a squeaking noise from the steering wheel when you turn. You may also notice that the steering wheel feels stiff and hard to turn, or that the vehicle is unresponsive when you turn the steering wheel.

Constant velocity joint

CV joints connect your car’s transmission to the wheels, allowing the tires to spin smoothly. If these joints are malfunctioning, you may hear a knocking noise when turning. A rattling noise is another sign of a bad CV joint and is especially noticeable when turning sharply. Vibrations may also occur when accelerating.

Ball joint

If the ball joints in your suspension system are worn, you may feel vibrations in your steering wheel. The steering wheel may also feel stiff or loose, or you may hear rattling, squeaking, or creaking noises when turning, going over bumps, or driving slowly.

Pillar bearings

Strut bearings are an important part of your vehicle’s front suspension system. When they start to have problems, you may experience vibrations or strange noises such as clicking, popping, or rattling. The steering wheel may also feel stiff, heavy, or shaky.

Tie rod

If you hear knocking or clicking noises when turning the steering wheel at slow speeds or going over bumps in the road, this is a sign that the steering tie rod is worn. The steering tie rod helps transfer motion to the wheels so they move properly and the vehicle steers.

Suspension Bushings

Control arm bushings are critical to proper vehicle handling. When they wear, they can cause rattling noises, steering wheel vibrations and steering drift.

Steering rack

The steering rack is a critical component of your vehicle’s steering system, allowing the wheels to move in the correct direction when turning. A damaged steering rack can result in stiff steering, a stiff or loose steering wheel, and rattling, grinding, or knocking noises.

Steering shaft joint

The steering shaft connects the wheels to the steering rack. A worn steering shaft universal joint may cause strange noises when turning the wheels, such as clicking or rattling. A damaged steering shaft joint or bearing can also cause vibrations and wobbles or a sticking steering wheel.

Power steering fluid leak

A power steering fluid leak can cause a squeaking, high pitched, or whining noise when you turn the steering wheel. The steering fluid level is usually low, and you may also notice a stiff steering wheel.

Power Steering Diagnosis and Repair

The suspension and power steering systems are complex systems of belts, hoses, and other parts that are subject to wear. If you hear any unusual steering noises when you turn the steering wheel, there are a number of possible problems.

If you notice any of the signs listed above, be sure to have your vehicle checked out as soon as possible. Damaged steering and suspension components can put you and your vehicle at risk. Plus, if you fix small issues quickly, it can save you money in the long run and prevent more expensive repairs.

For steering and suspension diagnostics, contact Bucaro Brothers. Whether you need a simple wheel alignment to correct a handling problem or your steering wheel makes noise when turning, we can help! With over 35 years of experience, we are your trusted source for automotive maintenance and complete repair services in Chicago.