Wait! Did you hear that noise?
Paying attention to even subtle noises while driving is a good practice to ensure safe, reliable transportation. In addition to noises helping you be aware of traffic, they can give you clues to potential problems in your vehicle. Your vehicle can produce a large range of noises. They include screeching, squealing, grinding, whining, groaning and humming. One noise to pay attention to is when you are turning. There should not be any noise coming from your steering wheel and if there is, it could suggest a problem.
Here are a few possibilities:
- Dry bushings - Front struts have bushings on top that can become dry and create groaning or creaking sounds and eventually impact the your other suspension parts causing premature wear and costly repairs.
- Worn Struts and Shocks - The first sign is noises when you turn. If not replaced, the vehicle will begin to bounce during turns.
- Worn suspension parts - such as tie rods, ball joints, or idler arms all effect the way your vehicle handles. A broken part can leave you stranded by the side of the road.
- Power Steering Fluid Leaks. Power steering systems use a specially formulated fluid to lubricate and transmit necessary pressure to move the steering smoothly. If there is a leak, it can produce a noise while turning and eventually make the vehicle hard to steer.
Noises while steering are trying to tell you something, and they can tell a trained technician a great deal. Inform your Service Advisor about the symptoms you're hearing. Your Old Town Auto technician can put that noise to a halt. After all, your ears have better things to listen to.
Old Town Auto Service
707.442.4556
Revised from content contributed by NAPA Service Assistant