There are some things you want to squeak – your car isn’t one of them. Have you noticed a squeaking or squealing sound when turning your car’s steering wheel? It likely signals a problem with the steering or suspension system. There are several possible underlying causes and you may also notice related symptoms in your car’s performance. A trusted mechanic should be able to diagnose and handle any related repairs to help get your car’s systems running smoothly again.
Looking for the right mechanic? Visit your local AAMCO Minnesota auto repair shop and our expert mechanics will diagnose and repair whatever your vehicle needs.
1. The Power Steering Fluid is Low
One of the most common causes of squeaking when steering is low-power steering fluid. Just like several other essential systems in your vehicle, the power steering system relies on adequate fluid to operate. This fluid both lubricates and helps power the parts in the system, making it integral to keep your car’s steering and handling on point.
If there’s a leak causing low power steering fluid, a trusted mechanic will have to inspect the system to diagnose the source of the leak and repair it before refilling the power steering fluid.
2. The Power Steering Pump is Failing
Another common cause of a squeaking steering wheel is a faulty or failing power steering pump. This part is responsible for circulating power steering fluid through the system as needed. If the power steering pump is wearing out or has failed, it can prevent power steering fluid from being able to do its job of lubricating and providing hydraulic pressure to keep the system running. Similar to when there’s low power steering fluid, this can lead to squeaking when you turn the steering wheel.
A trusted mechanic should inspect the power steering pump and replace it if necessary, as well as ensure the system has proper amounts of power steering fluid.
3. There are Worn Parts in the Steering or Suspension System
Two of your car’s systems are primarily responsible for proper handling and steering: the power steering system and the suspension system. A squeaking steering wheel could point to problems with either or both of these systems. In particular, parts like the tie-rod ends, seals, ball joints, and universal joints rely on lubrication to operate. Without this lubrication, they’re likely to cause a squeaking, squealing, or even grinding sound.
Have your mechanic inspect both the power steering system and suspension system in your vehicle to ensure all parts in each are working their best.
4. There’s a Problem with the Steering Wheel Housing
Just buy a new car? Oddly, another possible cause behind your squeaking steering wheel is the steering wheel housing itself. If your car is new, especially in hot weather, this could be why your steering wheel is squeaking. While this is overall a less serious issue than the previous three causes we’ve listed, it should still be taken care of. Because it’s a problem with the steering wheel housing rubbing against the car’s trim, you may want to head to the dealership so it can be handled as a defect or warranty repair.
5. Your Tires are Making Your Car Squeak
Finally, the problem may have nothing to do with your car’s steering wheel or power steering system. Instead, it could be the tires. If the sound is coming from your tires, you’re likely to only notice it in certain circumstances, like when turning or on certain surfaces. If the sound is bothersome, you may want to consider new tires. However, this generally is not an urgent car repair that needs to be handled right away.
Still, it’s best to have a mechanic inspect your vehicle to ensure the problem is the tires and there isn’t another car repair that needs to be handled.
For the Best Car Repair in MN, Visit Your Local AAMCO Repair Shop
Worried about your car’s squeaking steering wheel? The mechanics at your local AAMCO Minnesota auto shop are here to help, from diagnostics to repairs and more. We’ll help ensure all of your car’s essential systems are running their best, including fixing your car’s squeaking steering wheel. Give us a call today.