A squeaking car can be frustrating and even dangerous if not addressed promptly.
There are various reasons why your car might squeak when you turn, and understanding these causes can help you identify the issue and find a solution.
In this article, we will discuss 13 common causes of car squeaks when turning, along with the functions of each component and their solutions to fix them.
Why my car squeaks when I drive and why my car squeaks when I brake have been discussed in our previous articles, you can check them out here.
Here we only discuss why does my car squeak when I turn?
So without wasting time let's get started.
Why Does My Car Squeak When I Turn?
The following are 13 possible reasons why your car squeaks when turning:
- Power Steering System
- Power Steering Fluid
- Steering Wheel
- Power Steering Belt
- Suspension System
- Road Surface
- Wheel Bearings
- Brake Pads
- Tie Rods
- Ball Joints
- CV Joints
- Wheel Alignment
- New Car
Power Steering System
The power steering system helps you steer your car with ease.
If it's not functioning correctly, it can cause your car to squeak when you turn.
A failing power steering system can be due to a low level of power steering fluid, a damaged power steering pump, or a damaged steering rack.
Check the power steering fluid level and top it up if necessary. If the fluid level is fine, take your car to a mechanic to inspect the power steering pump and steering rack.
Power Steering Fluid
A low level of power steering fluid can cause your car to squeak when turning.
This is because the power steering system needs enough fluid to function correctly.
The fluid also helps to lubricate the power steering pump and prevent it from overheating. If the fluid level is too low, the pump may produce a whining or squeaking noise.
That's why you should check the power steering fluid level and top it up if necessary.
Steering Wheel
A worn or damaged steering wheel can cause your car to squeak when turning.
This is because the steering wheel is connected to the power steering system, and any damage to the wheel can affect the system's functionality.
So to avoid this problem, if the steering wheel is worn or damaged, replace it as soon as possible so that there is no further damage.
Power Steering Belt
A worn or loose power steering belt can cause your car to squeak when turning.
The power steering belt helps to transfer power from the engine to the power steering pump, which enables you to turn the steering wheel.
Over time, the belt may become loose or cracked, causing it to make a squeaking sound.
So, inspect the belt for any signs of wear or looseness. If it is worn or loose, replace the belt.
Suspension System
The suspension system is responsible for absorbing shocks and bumps on the road.
If any of the suspension components, such as the struts or shocks, become worn out, they may produce a squeaking noise when you turn.
If you think the problem lies with your car's suspension system, take your car to a mechanic to inspect the suspension system and replace any damaged parts.
Road Surface
Driving on rough or uneven surfaces can cause your car to squeak when turning.
This is because the suspension system has to work harder to absorb shocks and bumps on rough surfaces.
So, drive on a smoother surface if possible. If the road conditions are beyond your control, slow down when turning to reduce the squeaking.
Wheel Bearings
The wheel bearings are responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle and allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly.
If they become worn out or damaged, they may produce a squeaking noise when you turn.
To avoid this problem, take your car to a mechanic to have the wheel bearings inspected and any worn or damaged bearings replaced.
Brake Pads
Worn or damaged brake pads can cause your car to squeak when turning.
This is because the pads are responsible for stopping the wheels from spinning.
Take your car to a mechanic to inspect the brake pads and replace any worn or damaged pads.
Tie Rods
Worn or damaged tie rods can cause your car to squeak when turning.
This is because the tie rods are responsible for connecting the steering system to the wheels.
If you think the problem is with the tie rods, take your car to a mechanic to have them inspected and replace any worn or damaged tie rods.
Ball Joints
Worn or damaged ball joints can cause your car to squeak when turning.
This is because the ball joints are responsible for connecting the steering system to the wheels.
Take your car to a mechanic to inspect the ball joints and replace any worn or damaged ball joints.
CV Joints
Worn or damaged CV joints can cause your car to squeak when turning.
This is because the CV joints are responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels.
So, take your car to a professional mechanic to inspect the CV joints and replace any worn or damaged CV joints.
Wheel Alignment
If your wheels are not properly aligned, it may cause them to drag and produce a squeaking noise when you turn.
In such a condition, you should immediately take the car to a mechanic and get the wheel properly aligned as it can lead to noise as well as a major accident.
New Car
If your car is brand new, it may squeak when turning due to the breaking-in process.
This is because the various components of the car are still settling and adjusting to each other.
The squeaking should disappear after a few weeks of driving. If it persists, have a professional mechanic inspect the car.
How to Avoid Car Squeaking Noises
Prevention is always better than cure.
To avoid car squeaking noises, it's essential to keep up with regular maintenance and inspections. Some simple steps you can take include:
- Regularly inspecting the brakes, suspension system, and other components for wear and tear.
- Replacing worn-out parts promptly to avoid further damage.
- Regularly checking and topping off fluid levels, such as power steering fluid and transmission fluid.
- Investing in good quality tires and having them rotated and aligned regularly.
- Having a professional mechanic inspect your car regularly to catch any potential issues before they become serious.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are various reasons why your car might squeak when turning, including issues with the power steering system, power steering fluid, steering wheel, belt, road surface, wheel bearings, brake pads, tie rods, ball joints, CV joints, etc.
By understanding these causes and their solutions, you can identify and fix any issues with your car's squeaking. It's important to take your car to a mechanic if you're unsure about any of these components or if you're not confident in repairing them yourself. Regular maintenance and inspection can also help prevent any future issues with your car's squeaking.
Thank You