9 Causes of a Steering Wheel That Makes Noise When Turning

Updated January 21, 2019

When you have to make a turn, there shouldn’t be any noise coming from the steering wheel. Any such noises suggest there could be a problem with one or more of the numerous components in your car’s suspension and steering systems.

Turning puts a lot of stress on these parts and wear them out, causing a whining, groaning, or rubbing sound to occur. This might seem like no big deal, but you shouldn’t ignore these sounds as they could be an early warning sign of a serious problem.

The suspension and steering systems of a vehicle all work together to allow the steering wheel to turn your tires. In most economy cars, this would be its two front wheels.

The turning of the steering wheel requires plenty of power steering fluid and a healthy belt and pump. The suspension system then helps absorb additional pressure from the turning. Those parts most affected include the control arms, steering knuckle, and ball joints.

Top 9 Causes of Steering Wheel Noise When Turning

When there’s a problem with a component in the suspension or steering system, they’ll have trouble supporting the vehicle’s heavy weight. They must also be able to move in the ways they’re supposed to. Although lubrication will help preserve their lifespan, these parts will fail eventually. The first warning sign will be noises when turning the steering wheel. Here’s what they could mean:

#1 – Jounce Bushing is Dry

The front strut has something called a jounce bushing on top of it. When the bushing becomes dry, turning will create creaking or groaning sounds. These sounds will get worse the longer you wait to fix this problem.

#2 – Bad Power Steering Rack

A whining sound while turning could be the result of a bad power steering rack. This whining sound will be most recognizable while driving at lower speeds. Sometimes a bad belt or vane pump can cause this too.

#3 – Bad Struts and Shocks

Your struts and shocks can last quite a long time in your vehicle, but eventually they will wear down and go bad. The first sign is noises when you turn. If the parts are not replaced, the car will also begin to bounce during turns.

#4 – Worn Steering Column Bearing

If your steering wheel is making a loud rubbing noise when turning, the culprit could be the upper bearing on the steering column itself. This can cause the the plastic on the back of some steering wheels to rub against the cowling on the steering column. This is most noticeable in hot weather which causes some parts to expand.

#5 – Bad Tie Rod Ends

When you turn a steering wheel, it’s the tie rods which enable the wheels to move in response. A worn or damaged tie rod will create a knocking sound. This is especially true when you turn at lower speeds.

#6 – Bad Ball Joints

The steering knuckles and control arms are able to sustain movement with the help of ball joints. These joints need lubrication to prevent themselves from going dry. When they become dry, they will start to make noise. They are also often the issue if your steering wheel shakes.

#7 – Bad Suspension Bushings

Like all bushings, the suspension bushings will wear over time and eventually will go bad. All the wear and tear causes them to break down and crack. This will result in a creaking sound as you turn the wheel.

#8 – Power Steering Fluid Leaks

Power steering systems use a specially formulated fluid to lubricate and transmit the necessary pressure to move the steering smoothly. This fluid flows from a reservoir to the steering rack and pinion or steering box. If the power steering fluid leaks, it will produce a noise, especially when turning.

#9 – Steering Reservoir Tank Clogged

Power steering fluid is stored in the steering reservoir tank. Generally, there is filter inside reservoir tank to keep the fluid clean. When the reservoir becomes clogged, it will also produce a noise when turning.

How to Fix

The problem can be diagnosed in virtually any location. A professional mechanic is able to easily check your suspension system and steering system to see what’s causing the noises. Based on their diagnosis, they will recommend what needs to be fixed or replaced.

Sometimes your suspension system might just require lubrication, but while they’re in there, other worn or damaged parts will be noted as needing to be repaired or replaced.