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Squeaking Noise When Turning Steering Wheel Left or Right: Causes and Fixes
You should never ignore the annoying squeaking noises that appear when turning as they could be a sign of more serious suspension or steering troubles, such as power steering failure or damaged ball joints. This article will explore the common causes of these sounds and repairs to help you stay vigilant and keep your car in top shape.
Car Squeaking When Turning
In short, if the car squeaks when the wheels turn, it could be due to worn bushings, ball joints or tie rod ends, so it's worth picking up new car suspension parts. Other causes include low or contaminated power steering fluid, worn wheel bearings, brake issues (like worn pads or sticking calipers), problems in the steering column, or increased friction between the steering wheel housing and interior.
Occasionally, uneven tyre wear or low pressure can also cause a squeaking sound. Make sure to get the steering and suspension systems checked for wear, damage, and proper lubrication, as well as maintain the correct pressures and tread thickness for the car tyres.
Car Squeaking When Turning Right
For example, the car could be squeaking when turning right due to low power steering fluid or failed steering components, such as the pump. This is usually accompanied by difficulties turning the steering wheel or a sluggish response when turning. It may also be due to worn suspension parts or transmission parts, such as the ball joints, tie rods, CV joint, bushings and struts.
If the car is also pulling to one side when steering to the right, it is possible that the brake caliper pistons or pads are stuck on one side or the wheel bearings are worn or damaged, causing excessive play and poor alignment.
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Car Squeaking When Turning Left
As outlined above, the common causes range from power steering issues to suspension or brake issues. For example, you may need to fill up new power steering fluid, replace the car tie rod ends, or release seized brake calipers.
However, if the vehicle specifically squeaks when turning left, it is likely that there is a problem with one of the components on the right side of the vehicle as turning left increases the load on that side. For example, a loose tie rod on the left side will create a creaking or knocking sound when turning.
Squeaking When Turning at Low Speeds
In cases where the squeaking noise is more or only noticeable when driving at low speeds, the culprit is often either a braking system fault or a problem with the suspension. Worn brake pads and discs can produce strange, high-pitched sounds as they press against each other. It could also be due to a lack of lubrication in the ball joints, tie rod ends, and bearings.
The suspension may sound creaky at low speeds due to worn or leaking shock absorbers, which also result in a bumpy ride when driving on rough roads. In some cases, it’s the result of worn bearings, power steering parts, or CV axle joints.
Brakes Squeal When Turning
Squealing brakes are most commonly caused by worn brake pads or discs, or excessive brake dust and debris. Most modern car brake pads come with an electronic/mechanical wear indicator which lets you know when the pads need replacing by letting out a screeching or squealing sound, or triggering a warning notification.
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In some cases, it is due to a seized brake caliper, which prevents the brake pads from being released or making contact with the discs properly.
Car Squeaks When Going Over Bumps and Turning
A car may squeak over bumps and during turns due to worn-out or damaged suspension components, such as bushings, struts, or shock absorbers. The squeaking often results from metal-on-metal contact or insufficient lubrication in these parts. Additionally, loose or dried out steering components and ageing sway bar links can also cause squeaks. Regular maintenance and inspection can help identify and resolve these issues.
Check out the following video to find out more about the causes of a noisy suspension:
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