there are a few questions we receive more than others. Many of them have to do with common noises that come from our customer’s cars. From squeaking brakes to ticking engines, we’ve heard it all (no pun intended).

Today we’ll be talking about noises you hear when turning, their most likely causes, and what to do about it.

When you make a turn in your car, you really shouldn’t hear any noise from your steering wheel. If you do, there could be an issue with your car’s suspension and steering system.

The suspension and steering systems in your car work together to turn the vehicle when you turn the wheel. Considering the weight and speed of your car, you can imagine the stress turning puts on these parts. Over time, it’s common for them to wear down, resulting in an unpleasant whining, groaning, or rubbing sound when taking a turn. This might seem like nothing more than an annoyance, but you shouldn’t ignore these sounds. They could indicate the start of a serious problem and getting them looked at by your local Master Mechanic could save you money.

The Top Causes of Steering Wheel Noise:

If there’s a problem with one or more parts of your suspension or steering system, they’ll have trouble supporting the weight of your vehicle properly. Often, we hear a noise as a result of something not being able to move the way it should. In all cars, these parts will wear down eventually, and noises are the first warning sign.

Here’s what causes steering wheel noise when turning:

Upper Strut Bearings

On top of the front strut is a bearing which is part of the front strut/spring assembly. These bearings support the weight of the front of the vehicle and allow the strut and wheel assembly to turn left and right. Over time as these bearings are exposed to the elements, the bearings can rust causing clunking noises and sometimes make it harder to turn the steering wheel. This can make low speed parking maneuvers difficult. If you are experiencing this type of issue have your vehicle inspected sooner than later.

Bad Power Steering Rack

Your steering rack converts the rotary motion of the steering wheel into left and right motion which is transferred to the wheels allowing them to steer the vehicle. Due to constant steering input, even in normal everyday driving, steering racks eventually wear out. The internal seals are exposed to hot/high pressure power steering fluid and the seals become worn and brittle. If you are experiencing high steering effort when your vehicle mis cold but it improves as you vehicle warms up, your power steering rack may be worn out.

 

Worn Out Struts and Shocks

The struts and shocks in your vehicle are built to last–just not forever. Eventually, they will wear down and the first sign is noise or extra bouncing when going over bumps. If the parts are not replaced, you’ll experience premature uneven tire wear and your vehicle ride quality will deteriorate. If they are worn badly enough your vehicle may become difficult to handle after going over bumps.

Worn Tie Rod Ends

A tie rod is part of the linkage that transfers motion from the steering rack out to the wheels. A worn or damaged tie rod can sometimes create a knocking noise, which is most apparent when you turn at lower speeds or drive over small bumps in the road.

Worn Ball Joints

Ball joints enable the movement of the suspension control arms and steering knuckles. To move smoothly, it’s crucial that these joints remain lubricated at all times. If they become dry, they may start making squeaking or crunching noises when you turn the steering wheel at low speeds.

 

Bad Suspension Bushings

Like your upper strut bearings, suspension bushings in your car won’t last forever. Once they start to wear, they break crack and eventually fall apart. If they fall disintegrate they will likely make a sound you won’t be able to ignore. Contact your local Master Mechanic to replace the suspension bushings as soon as possible.

Leaking Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid provides the hydraulic pressure and also provides lubrication to the steering rack, which allows the driver to turn the steering wheel, easily, smoothly and efficiently. If there’s a leak in your steering reservoir system, then there may not be enough power steering fluid to achieve a smooth, effortless turn. Not only will it take more upper body strength to turn the steering wheel of your car, but you will hear noises when you do.

Worn/seizing Steering Shaft Joint

 

The shaft between your steering wheel and steering rack is never completely straight. In order for the shaft to turn it has what is called a universal joint installed somewhere along its length. Over time the joints can become worn enough that they don’t move properly and can cause noise or stiffness while turning. The steering shaft and universal joint are usually replaced as an assembly.

Signs of a Bad Power Steering Rack

1. Steering Wheel Hard to Turn
   • One of the most obvious signs of a failing power steering rack is difficulty turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when parking. If the steering becomes heavy or requires extra effort to turn, it may indicate that the power steering rack or the power steering fluid is low or leaking.
2. Leaking Power Steering Fluid
   • A damaged power steering rack can cause fluid to leak. If you notice puddles or spots of red or pink fluid underneath your vehicle, it could be a sign of a leaking power steering rack or hose. Leaks can reduce the effectiveness of the power steering system, leading to hard steering and possible damage to other components.
3. Unusual Noises When Turning
   • A bad power steering rack can create whining, groaning, or clunking noises when you turn the steering wheel. These noises often indicate a problem with the steering rack, the power steering pump, or low fluid levels. If the noise persists, it may suggest that the rack itself is worn out or damaged.
4. Steering Wheel Vibration or Shaking
   • If the steering wheel shakes or vibrates while driving, especially at higher speeds or during turns, it could point to an issue with the steering rack. This could also be caused by other problems like worn suspension components, but a bad rack can be a contributor.
5. Uneven Steering Response
   • If you notice that the steering feels uneven, such as one side of the steering wheel responding differently than the other, it could be a sign of internal wear or damage to the power steering rack. This can make it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle.
6. Steering Pulling to One Side
   • A bad power steering rack may cause the vehicle to pull to one side, even if the tires are properly inflated and aligned. This is often due to internal leaks or wear inside the rack that prevents even steering control.
7. Loss of Power Steering Assistance
   • In some cases, the power steering assistance can be completely lost if the rack fails. This can result in very stiff steering, which may require more physical effort to turn the wheel.

Potential Causes of a Bad Power Steering Rack

• Worn Out Internal Components: Over time, the internal components of the steering rack (such as gears and seals) can wear down, leading to reduced performance or failure.
• Fluid Leaks: A common cause of power steering rack failure is a leak in the seals or hoses, which can result in low fluid levels. Without enough fluid, the rack can’t operate properly, leading to steering problems.
• Contaminated Power Steering Fluid: If the power steering fluid becomes contaminated with dirt or debris, it can damage the internal parts of the rack, leading to wear and failure.
• Corrosion or Rust: Exposure to moisture or road salt can cause corrosion and rust to form on the rack, damaging it and reducing its effectiveness.
• Overuse or Heavy Stress: Over time, extreme driving conditions (such as towing or off-roading) or consistent rough steering can place excessive stress on the rack, accelerating wear.

What to Do If You Suspect a Bad Power Steering Rack

1. Inspect the Fluid: Check the power steering fluid level and condition. If it’s low or discolored, it may need to be topped off or replaced. Leaking fluid should be addressed promptly.
2. Get a Professional Diagnosis: If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to have a mechanic inspect the power steering rack. Diagnosing the issue early can prevent further damage and potentially costly repairs.
3. Repair or Replace: If the power steering rack is found to be faulty, it may need to be repaired or replaced. In some cases, a rebuild of the existing rack is possible, while in others, the entire rack may need to be replaced.
   • Replacement: A full replacement is often necessary if the rack is severely damaged or if there are internal issues that can’t be repaired.
   • Rack Rebuilding: Some mechanics offer a service to rebuild the steering rack if it has significant wear but is not completely beyond repair.
4. Fix Leaks: If you suspect a fluid leak, the seals or hoses may need to be replaced. Depending on the severity of the leak, the whole rack assembly may need to be replaced.
5. Test the Steering After Repair: After any repair or replacement, ensure that the steering is responsive and free of noise or vibration. The mechanic may also need to perform an alignment if the rack was replaced.

How Much Does it Cost to Repair or Replace a Power Steering Rack?

• Labor Costs: The labor costs for replacing a power steering rack typically range from $300 to $600, depending on the vehicle and location.
• Parts Costs: The price of a new steering rack can vary widely, typically ranging from $500 to $1,500 or more, depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
• Total Costs: Overall, the total cost to replace a power steering rack can range from $800 to $2,000 or more, depending on the vehicle type, labor rates, and part prices.

Conclusion

A bad power steering rack can significantly impact your vehicle’s handling and safety. If you notice any signs of power steering problems, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Regular maintenance, including checking fluid levels and inspecting the steering system, can help catch issues early and extend the life of your steering components.