Electric power steering noises can affect the drivability and maneuverability of your vehicle. If the problem involves the control module or an electrical issue, your check engine light may also come on. Taking the necessary steps to prevent further damage to your vehicle and ensure your safety is crucial. Here are some symptoms to look for to determine the source of the noise.
Wear of rack and pinion
If your electric power steering has a worn rack or pinion, it may be time to replace it. This component is responsible for turning the steering wheel and converting it into angular turns. A broken rack or pinion may cause your steering to feel loose or you may notice a noticeable fluid leak. If you have noticed one of these symptoms, you should contact a professional for an inspection.
A broken rack or pinion may be a sign of a more serious problem. An electric power steering system is not easy to diagnose without a scan tool and a factory diagnostic tool. A faulty rack may be caused by a loose tie rod end, broken ball joint, or a weak shock absorber. It can also be caused by tire under-inflation.
Belt wear
If your car has power steering, you need to check its belt periodically for signs of wear and debris. If it starts to slip and become unevenly worn, you may need to tighten it, or it might be time to replace it entirely. A replacement can cost between $150 and $300. In either case, it’s important to check the condition of the belt regularly, at least once a year, or every 6,000 kilometers.
You might notice a grinding or squeaking sound coming from the steering rack. These are signs of a worn belt and could also signal a faulty power steering pump.
Tightness of mounting bolts
If you hear an annoying noise when turning your car, there is a good chance that your electric power steering system is not working properly. You should check the torque setting of the mounting bolts of the power steering system. Usually, this torque setting should be about 53 ft.-lbs. and must be applied with 90 degrees rotation. Moreover, you should check if the power steering fluid is clogged. This problem may also be due to contamination in the lines and reservoir. You may also find air in the system which can cause noise.
Another possible cause of noise when turning the steering wheel is the electrical connection between the steering wheel and the power steering system. This connection should be tight enough to prevent the noise from arising. In some cases, a loose connection will cause a single click sound while turning the steering wheel.
Loose steering wheel
If you have an electric power steering noise when turning your steering wheel, you should first determine if it is a simple issue or something more serious. The noise is most likely coming from the steering reservoir, which contains the steering fluid and generally has a filter to keep the fluid clean. If the noise is coming from the steering reservoir, you may need to replace the reservoir or have it repaired. A professional mechanic can help you diagnose the problem and recommend repair or replacement options.
Typically, this problem occurs when the steering system provides too much torque or speed in one direction. This can lead to an uneven weight distribution in the steering wheel when you turn to the left or right. The steering angle sensor needs to be re-calibrated so that it sends accurate data to the ECU. The steering electric control unit will then start providing the proper amount of torque.
Damaged CV joint
If your car is making an electric power steering noise when turning, then it is likely that your CV joint is deteriorated. Over the course of your car’s lifetime, the CV joint is put through a lot of stress and wear. As a result, the grease in the joint can become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness as a lubricant. The sound that you hear may be the sound of a clicking or popping sound.
To test if the CV joint is causing the noise, place your car in reverse and turn the steering wheel fully. If the joint is damaged, it will begin to move backward in circles while you step on the gas. This will cause a louder noise when you turn, and it will also require a new driveshaft.
Poor lubrication
If you hear an unusual noise when turning your steering wheel, it is likely that your power steering system is suffering from poor lubrication. The power steering pump and belt require special lubrication to operate smoothly. When these components are damaged or clogged, the noise they make will likely continue even at low speeds. A professional mechanic can diagnose the problem and recommend a repair or replacement.
The power steering system has many parts that require lubrication. Low or dirty power steering fluid can cause a squeaking or grinding noise when you turn the steering wheel. In some cases, the noise may also be caused by the suspension system or the steering system components themselves.
