Why does my car make a noise when I turn
If you have been driving within Bozeman and heard strange sounds, you might wonder, “Why does my car make a noise when I turn?” Like most old cars, yours starts to make some noises as you drive through Laurel. But if you hear a strange sound during a turn, that could mean there is a problem.
Your speed, the type of noise, and many other factors will affect the diagnosis. If you hear normal or strange sounds coming from your car, the good news is that you can always schedule service with Underriner Motors. The best people in Laurel can help you answer the question “Why does my car make noise when I turn?” Please find out more from our master service techs below!
Common Reasons for Noise When Turning
1) Power Steering Fluid
Air can enter the system when the power steering fluid level is low, leading to whining or squealing sounds when the wheel is turned. You may find the possible solution to your problem How to fix the ESC on a car.
2) Worn Out Steering Components
When components such as the steering rack, tie rods, or ball joints wear down with time, it can cause the vehicle to make noises like popping or clunking when you turn the wheel.
3) Suspension Issues
When navigating bumps or making tight turns a knocking or rattling sound may be produced by defective suspension parts such as worn-out bushings or struts.
4) Suspension Joints:
Often heard at lower speeds, creaking, clunking, or popping is an indication of worn-out suspension joints.
5) Power Steering Pump:
Another low-speed sound, a whining noise can often diagnose an issue with the power steering pump.
6) Ball Joints:
If you hear the cracking sound progressively louder over time a faulty ball joint may be the reason for unsettling sounds.
7) Bushing:
You may hear a creaking sound coming from the joints when your suspension system needs lubrication or replacement,
8) Struts and Shocks:
This kind of loud noise can be caused by struts or shocks that aren’t working right. It’s common to feel “bouncy” or “loose” if going over hills.
9) CV Joints:
Should you hear a crunching sound when maneuvering at higher speeds, your CV joints are likely the cause.
10) Power Steering System:
If you hear a loud screech or whine as you make your turn, you may have an issue with the power steering system. Sometimes a simple fluid top-off is all that is required, in other cases, major repairs are needed.
11) Tie Rods:
A clunking sound as you turn can be a sign of a loose or busted tie rod.
12) Sway Bar Link:
When experiencing poor handling in conjunction with a knocking noise while you turn, your sway bar is likely the culprit.
How to Diagnosing the Problem
To determine where the knocking sound is coming from, you should do the following:
Listening to the Noise
Focus on the sound’s characteristics, such as its pitch and volume. Could it be a screech, a low rumble, or a clunk of metal?
Checking Power Steering Fluid
Check the quality and level of the power steering fluid. A lack of fluid or fluid that is dirty can amplify noise problems.
Checking the Motor and Suspension Parts
Look for damage, leaks, or wear on the suspension and steering parts.
How To Fixing the Issue
You need to take the following steps after you’ve identified the problem:
- Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your car’s steering, suspension, and brake systems.
- Fluid Checks: Ensure power steering and transmission fluids are at the proper levels.
- Tire Maintenance: Keep tires properly inflated and aligned.
- Brake Maintenance: Replace brake pads and inspect rotors regularly.
Importance of Regular Maintenance
To keep your vehicle running smoothly and without noise, it is essential to perform routine maintenance such as checking and replacing fluids, inspecting steering components, and servicing the suspension.
Case Study: My Real-life Example
Let’s look at a real-life example. I have noticed a grinding noise when I turn my car. After a thorough inspection, I was able to find that his wheel bearings were broken. Replacing the wheel bearings resolved the issue and my car was back to running smoothly. This case study highlights the importance of identifying and addressing noises early.
Youtube Video
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Conclusion
- The first step in fixing the problem and keeping your driving experience safe and smooth is to figure out why your car makes noise when you turn.
- You can have a more peaceful and dependable ride if the problem is properly identified and handled quickly.
FAQs
Why is my car making a grinding noise when turning left only?
To keep the vehicle under control at different speeds, ball joints connect the control arms to the steering knuckles. They must be adequately greased to perform this task correctly.
Grinding noises can be produced when the ball joint’s lubrication dries up, leading to increased friction between the ball and socket.
Why does my car groan when I turn left?
When your power steering pump starts to groan, it’s usually a sign that something is wrong. When you turn the wheel to navigate corners or steep turns, you’ll hear the sound.
If the power steering pump is worn out, you might be able to hear it grumbling even with a little wheel turn.
How do I stop my power steering from making noise?
To remove any air bubbles and drain the fluid, we suggest using a power steering fluid flush. Refilling the system with new fluid is the next step.
Although they may become noisier with age, some power steering pumps still do their job adequately. Power steering fluids come in a variety of types to suit various systems.
Can DIY repairs fix noise when turning?
If the problem is complex, you may need to call a professional, but simple things like refilling fluids or replacing small components can be handled by the average person.