Why Does My Car Make Noise When I Turn My Wheel?
Hearing strange noises when you turn your wheel can be worrying, as it could be a sign of larger issues in your vehicle. There may be clunks, rattles, thumps, rotational noises, clinking, knocking, pops, squeals, and more, and deciphering the source of these sounds can be difficult due to the various potential causes.
You’ll want to pay close attention to the sounds your car makes when turning. Is it a squeal, a thud, a click, or a grinding noise? Each sound can provide clues to pinpoint the underlying issue and help you narrow down which system to follow up on.
Tire-Related Issues
Tire-related issues are one of the most common culprits for strange noises while turning your car’s tires. It could be tire tread wear, when your tire treads wear down unevenly, causing noise when turning, particularly squealing.
It could also be low tire pressure, which causes the edges of your tires to wear prematurely, but also the wheel has increased resistance against the road, resulting in squealing or scuffing sounds. Make sure to check your tires for signs of excessive wear and be sure to fill them with air.
Power Steering Issues
Your car’s power steering system plays a significant role in making your everyday drive effortless. However, when worn or failing, it could also be the source of noise when turning your steering wheel. When the power steering system is low on power steering fluid, it can lead to a whining or groaning sound when you turn the wheel.
Be sure to check your power steering fluid to see if you need more or just a top off. In addition, a worn power steering pump can cause a high-pitched squeal or a grinding noise when turning your car. If your power steering pump is worn, it’s important you get it diagnosed and worked on by a professional.
Suspension And Steering Issues
Worn Ball Joints or Bushings
Issues with your car’s suspension and steering components can also result in strange noises. It could be worn ball joints or bushings. Worn-out ball joints or bushings can cause clunking or knocking sounds during turns. Have these components inspected and replaced if necessary.
Loose or damaged tie rod ends
Tie rod ends connect your steering system to the wheels. Loose or damaged tie rod ends can create clicking or popping noises as well as a rattle over bumps. They may need to be replaced.
Seized strut bushings
The upper mount on the front struts can get dirty or corroded. It can make steering motions feel inconsistent as well as cause popping or crunching noises.
Brake-Related Concerns
Sometimes, the culprit behind the noise might be related to your brakes, and most of the time, it ends up being worn-out brake pads, which may cause a grinding noise. Make sure your brake pads are taken care of, or caliper issues.
A grinding noise when turning can be because you’re braking simultaneously with worn-out brake pads. Check your brake pads for wear and replace them if they’re too thin.
Problems with the brake calipers, such as a stuck caliper or worn-out caliper pins, can lead to noise during turns. A mechanic should assess and repair caliper-related issues.
Steering Maintenance at Sun Automotive
If you’re noticing unusual noises from your vehicle when turning, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Sun Automotive at our locations in Eugene, Springfield, and Junction City! Address any issues as soon as they’re detected to prevent further damage. Schedule with the experienced team at Sun Automotive!