The noise level created by old things, such as toys, furniture, and household gadgets like fridges, AC, etc., is justifiable.
But when your new car (or not a much older one) makes a squeaky noise, it is irritating.
Usually, it makes such noises while turning the car when you rotate the steering wheel.
In this article, we are going to discuss this problem in detail.
Its reasons, as well as the solutions to this problem.
Reasons why car squeaks
When you turn the car steering towards the left or right and hear the squeaking noise, your car is having trouble with any of its systems.
Mostly it means that your Power steering system has to be serviced.
There can be a problem with your steering system, with the lubricant system, or with the belt of your car.
What is the power steering system?
In most simple words, a power steering system is a simple system consisting of three parts
1. The pump, which is driven by the belt on the front motor
2. The steering gear and tie rods connect to the knuckles and steering gear. Here the wheels are attached
3. The hoses connect to the pump and the gear
Keeping in mind this simple sketch of the power steering system, let’s look at why your car is squeaking.
● Disturbance in the power steering system
Typically any disorder of the car’s power steering system has to be linked with the noise it makes while turning.
Usually, a slight buzzing sound is created by this, but if it squeaks while working, then it means that there is a problem.
The power steering system has many components, like a pump, steering box, and hoses.
So, a squeaking noise is produced whenever there is a problem with any of its components.
Also, it is related to the car’s age. If your car is old, any part of this power steering system may need replacing.
● Problem with power steering system fluids
The fluids running through a car’s power steering system are very important.
These hydraulic fluids run through the power system of the steering and give energy to the car.
They put pressure on the sides of the piston, and the vehicle runs smoothly.
It is obvious that when there is no or less amount of liquids, the driving will become noisy.
Driving without an adequate amount of these liquids will put pressure on the system’s working, and even your control over your vehicle will be a challenge.
Sometimes there is another issue with fluids, and they may become contaminated.
Tiny particles may accumulate in these liquids, and contamination occurs.
If this problem is not solved timely, it hampers the system, and the problem of squeaky sounds arises.
● Internal rubbing is occurring
The steering system can be hampered if there is something internally disturbed.
The steering wheel is made up of metallic material.
In hot weather, that material may expand.
This way, the distance between the outer and inner rim reduces significantly.
This may cause collision and noise.
Also, driving in such a condition for a long period will cause a lot of damage to the steering system, which may result in a lack of control over your vehicle.
This may result in a road accident.
● Problem with steering wheel belt
Squeaky noise can come from the belt of the steering wheel.
This belt may get loose after prolonged use and then starts squeaking.
This is mainly the problem of old vehicles.
Over a long period, after many years of use, they get loose.
There is another belt in the car that is a fan belt. It connects the important parts of the motor.
If it is faulty, it can cause severe damage to the car.
● Problem with the ball joints of the steering wheel
Ball joints and bushing are also related to the vehicle’s power steering system.
They need to be changed after a long time of use.
You may feel vibrations and squeaky noise whenever there is a problem with these joints.
You should change them once any such problem occurs. It is important for your safety too.
● Problem with steering wheel lubricants
Power steering fluid lubricates the pump in the system.
At the same time, other components joined with it, like tie rods, bushing, ball joints etc. Also, need lubrication.
If they aren’t lubricated properly, then annoying squeaky sounds are emitted when the steering wheel rotates.
Consult a mechanic for the proper investigation of the problem.
● Driving on an untidy road
Not all problems are technical.
Sometimes the reason behind the squeaky noise of your is the untidy, unbalanced road.
● Car is new
Sometimes, only the age of your vehicle is the problem.
If you have a brand new car, and you have simply put a little more force on the steering wheel than required, such problems can occur.
Especially in hot weather, due to some friction in the internal system of power steering.
This issue is not a big deal; it can be resolved by changing the steering wheel cover or adjusting its position.
● Tire-related issues
There are not only steering system problems but sometimes a problem with the vehicle’s tires contributing to the noise.
There can be many tire-related issues, such as under-inflated tires.
Lack of air pressure in the tire makes it flat, having more contact with the road.
So when you turn your car, the tire’s rubber slides sideways and makes squeaky sounds.
Sometimes the misalignment of the tires is responsible for this kind of noise.
Misaligned tires don’t have the correct angle with the road.
● Worn brakes
The Brake system of the vehicle consists of metallic material.
Sometimes metal to metal friction in the brakes creates such squeaky sounds.
Mostly these are the brake pads that are worn out.
A mechanic can check this issue.
These were some of the most common reasons for the squeaky noise in the power steering system.
Whenever your car faces this issue, consult a good mechanic to avoid any further damage to the vehicle and avoid any dangerous situation.
Solutions to the squeaking noise problem
There are various solutions to the squeaking noise problem.
As mentioned above, this problem can be related to more than one vehicle part.
Identification of the exact centre of the problem and then finding the cure will be worthwhile.
In this regard, a properly trained person can help us.
Here we will discuss some of them in detail.
Some will be related to tires, and others with the steering wheel system.
● Proper tire maintenance
Proper tire maintenance includes many things, such as checking for the appropriate pressure level in each tire whenever you feel unusual noise.
Check the wheel alignment for good balance and safety of the vehicle.
It is also necessary to avoid noise.
After a certain mileage is done by the vehicle, check for the wheel balance and the rotation of the tire.
All these measures help tires to stay fit and noise-free.
● Management of driving habits
How many problems your vehicle is facing, to a good extent, depends upon your driving style.
If you are a harsh driver, or your route is usually bumpy on roads and highways, there is a bright chance that your vehicle parts may deteriorate earlier than their age.
Another reason for premature ageing of the tires is when you suddenly raise the speed, the tires also start spinning at a greater pace.
This leads to more friction between the tire and the road, ultimately decreasing the age of the tires, simultaneously attached to the noise problem.
That’s why to be a calm and careful driver if you want your vehicle to perform well in the long run.
Another thing worth mentioning is that some drivers are very hard on the brakes.
When you apply brakes suddenly or hard, your vehicle may stop, but the wheels rotate for some time.
This eventually causes damage to the wheels, and a squeaky sound appears.
The hard and sudden turning of the vehicle is also a reason for squeak and sequel sounds. In this case, the tire on one side slips slightly to maintain the track.
● Proper vehicle maintenance
Do go to the auto parts service station every 6 months to check the vehicle’s overall maintenance.
The repair of any part like wheels, steering, engine or suspension system should be checked.
Every part of the vehicle has a life expectancy, also a certain mileage and period are advised for the engine oil to be changed.
If tuning any part is required, go for it right now. Otherwise, these petty problems arise and gradually become intense.
This not only creates temporary problems but they have a long-lasting impression.
Conclusions
In this article, we discussed the causes and treatments of the squeaky noise that a car produces.
We discussed many reasons and discussed different parts of the car that may be suffering from any wear and tear.
This wear and tear can be because of the car itself, meaning the car may be new.
Or it may be occurring due to the driver’s carelessness while driving or the owner’s negligence towards the proper maintenance of the vehicle.
Whatever the matter is, it shouldn’t be overlooked and should be resolved on a priority basis for the better working of your machine.
FAQs
Q: Why does my car squeak when I turn the steering wheel?
A: The squeaking noise while turning can be due to worn-out or dry ball joints, suspension components, or power steering system issues.
Q: How do I fix the squeaking noise in my car while turning?
A: The solution depends on the root cause. It may involve lubricating ball joints or suspension components, replacing worn-out parts, or addressing power steering problems. Consult a mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
Q: Is it safe to drive my car if it squeaks while turning?
A: It’s best to have your car checked by a professional mechanic to determine the cause of the squeaking. Continuing to drive with a potential steering issue can compromise safety and cause further damage to your vehicle.
Q: Can weather conditions affect my car’s squeaking noise while turning?
A: Yes, extreme weather conditions such as cold temperatures or humidity can affect the performance of ball joints, suspension components, and power steering systems, leading to squeaking noises. Regular maintenance and lubrication can help prevent this.
Q: How often should I lubricate my car’s ball joints and suspension components?
A: It’s best to refer to your car’s manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance intervals. However, as a general guideline, ball joints and suspension components should be inspected and lubricated regularly as part of routine vehicle maintenance to prevent squeaking and ensure smooth operation.