Blog Layout

Why does my car make noise when i turn?

Mathew Flack • Sep 09, 2024

Why does my car make noise when i turn?

Why Does My Car Make Noise When I Turn?


If you've ever experienced a strange noise when turning your car, you're

not alone. This unsettling sound can range from a light squeak to a loud

clunk, and it often leaves drivers worried about the health of their vehicle.

Understanding the root cause of these noises is crucial, as it can help you

address the problem early and avoid costly repairs down the line. In this

detailed guide, we'll explore the various reasons why your car might make

noise when turning and what steps you should take to resolve it.


Types of Noises You Might Hear

Before diving into the causes, it's essential to understand the types of noises you might

encounter. Different noises can indicate different issues, so paying attention to the sound can be

a valuable diagnostic tool.


1. Squeaking or Squealing: This high-pitched noise is often heard when turning the

steering wheel, especially at low speeds. It might be more noticeable when parking or

making tight turns.


2. Clunking or Popping: A loud, metallic noise that might occur when making a sharp turn

or going over bumps.


3. Grinding: A harsh, mechanical sound that often indicates a severe issue, typically

related to the brake or steering system.


4. Humming or Whining: A low, continuous noise that can increase in volume or pitch

when the steering wheel is turned.

Each of these noises can point to different underlying problems, which we will explore in detail.


Common Causes of Noises When Turning


1. Worn Out or Damaged CV Joints


○ Description: The Constant Velocity (CV) joints are crucial components of your

car's front axle. They allow the axle to transmit power to the wheels while

accommodating the up-and-down motion of the suspension.

○ Symptoms: A clicking or popping sound when making sharp turns, especially at

low speeds, is a common symptom of worn-out CV joints. This noise is often

more pronounced when accelerating through a turn.

○ Solution: If the CV joints are worn out, they usually need to be replaced.

Continuing to drive with damaged CV joints can lead to further damage to the

axle and other components.


2. Power Steering Issues


○ Description: The power steering system makes it easier to turn the steering

wheel by using hydraulic or electric power. Problems in this system can manifest

as strange noises.

○ Symptoms: A whining or groaning noise when turning, especially when the

steering wheel is turned fully to one side, can indicate an issue with the power

steering system. This might be due to low power steering fluid, a worn-out power

steering pump, or a leak in the system.

○ Solution: Start by checking the power steering fluid level. If it's low, topping it up

might solve the problem. If the noise persists, there might be a more significant

issue with the pump or other components, requiring professional inspection.


3. Worn Suspension Components


○ Description: The suspension system of your car includes various components

like ball joints, tie rods, and bushings. These parts are responsible for ensuring

smooth steering and handling.

○ Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises when turning, especially when going

over bumps, can indicate worn or damaged suspension components. These

sounds are often more noticeable in older vehicles with high mileage.

○ Solution: Inspecting and replacing worn suspension components is crucial.

Ignoring these issues can lead to poor handling and increased wear on other

parts of the vehicle.


4. Brake System Problems


○ Description: The brake system, including the pads, rotors, and calipers, can

sometimes cause noise when turning if they are worn out or damaged.

○ Symptoms: A grinding noise when turning can indicate that the brake pads are

worn down to the metal, which can damage the rotors. Squeaking noises might

also be heard if the pads are low but not yet metal-to-metal.

○ Solution: Regular inspection and timely replacement of brake components are

essential. If you hear grinding, it's crucial to address the issue immediately to

avoid further damage and ensure safe braking.


5. Wheel Bearing Issues


○ Description: Wheel bearings allow the wheels to spin smoothly and are essential

for the proper functioning of your car.

○ Symptoms: A humming or growling noise that changes with the speed of the

vehicle and becomes louder when turning in one direction could indicate a failing

wheel bearing.

○ Solution: Replacing a faulty wheel bearing is necessary to prevent wheel failure

and ensure safe driving. This is typically a job for a professional mechanic, as it

requires specialized tools.


6. Tire Problems


○ Description: Tires can also be a source of noise when turning, particularly if they

are unevenly worn or underinflated.

○ Symptoms: A thumping noise when turning, or a vibration in the steering wheel,

might indicate tire issues. Uneven tread wear can cause the tires to make more

noise, especially when turning.

○ Solution: Regular tire maintenance, including proper inflation, alignment, and

rotation, can prevent these issues. If the tires are unevenly worn, they might need

to be replaced to restore smooth and quiet driving.


Preventative Maintenance Tips


To avoid these issues in the future, regular maintenance is key:

● Regularly Check Fluid Levels: Keeping an eye on the power steering fluid, brake fluid,

and other vital fluids can prevent many noise-related issues.

● Inspect Tires: Regular tire rotations, balancing, and alignment checks can prevent

uneven wear and noise.

● Routine Brake Inspections: Ensure your brake pads, rotors, and other components are

in good condition to avoid grinding and other noises.

● Suspension Maintenance: Have your suspension components inspected during routine

maintenance to catch wear and tear early.

Conclusion


Hearing a noise when you turn your car can be alarming, but understanding the potential

causes can help you address the issue quickly and effectively. Whether it's a simple fix like

topping up the power steering fluid or a more complex issue like replacing CV joints, taking

action early can save you from more significant problems down the road. Regular maintenance

and timely repairs are essential to keeping your car running smoothly and quietly. If you're ever

in doubt, don't hesitate to seek the advice of a professional mechanic to ensure your vehicle's

safety and performance.


By staying proactive and attentive to your car's sounds, you can enjoy a smoother and quieter

ride, free from the worry of unexpected noises.

By Mathew Flack 10 Oct, 2024
automobile alignment
By Mathew Flack 07 Oct, 2024
Why does my dashbaord say brake?
By Mathew Flack 03 Oct, 2024
Why does my car battery keep dying?
By Mathew Flack 30 Sep, 2024
Why Does My vehicle Keep Stalling? 
By Mathew Flack 27 Sep, 2024
Why does my car smell like gas?
By Mathew Flack 23 Sep, 2024
Why Does My Car Sound Like a Lawn Mower When I Accelerate?
By Mathew Flack 20 Sep, 2024
your brakes making noise NEEDS TO BE CHECKED OUT
By Mathew Flack 16 Sep, 2024
Title: Auto Care Services: Why You Need a Plan to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly Introduction: Maintaining your vehicle is more than just an oil change and tire rotation—there’s a lot more that goes into keeping your car in top shape. From shocks and struts to flushes, filters, and belts, the list of necessary auto care services can feel overwhelming. But with a solid plan in place, you can ensure your car stays reliable while avoiding unexpected costs. Our ASE-certified master technicians can perform a full inspection of your vehicle and build a customized maintenance plan. Let’s break down the essential services and how to incorporate them into a budget that works for you. 1. Understanding What Goes Into Auto Care Services Auto care isn't just about the basics. Maintaining a car involves several components that work together to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to keep an eye on: Shocks and Struts: These components absorb road impacts, improving ride comfort and handling. Over time, they wear down, and replacing them can prevent a rough ride and protect other parts of the car. Flushes and Filters: Regular coolant flushes, transmission flushes, and replacing air, oil, and fuel filters keep your engine running clean and prevent overheating or fuel inefficiency. Belts and Hoses: Your vehicle's belts and hoses control essential functions like power steering, cooling, and charging the battery. Worn-out belts and cracked hoses can cause breakdowns. Timing Belt: Replacing the timing belt at the recommended intervals (typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles) is essential to prevent major engine damage. Spark Plugs: These ignite the air/fuel mixture in your engine. Worn spark plugs can lead to engine misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, and difficulty starting your car. Tire Balance and Alignment: Properly balanced and aligned tires wear evenly, ensuring longer tire life, better fuel efficiency, and smoother handling. Battery Services: Your car battery should be regularly tested and replaced as needed. A dead battery can leave you stranded, especially in extreme weather conditions. 2. The Importance of Brake Maintenance Maintaining your brakes is essential for safety. Your brake pads, rotors, and fluid should be checked regularly to avoid costly repairs and ensure your car stops when you need it to. Brake Pad Replacement: Worn-out brake pads can damage the rotors and increase stopping distances. Regular inspections will catch wear before it leads to more expensive problems. Brake Fluid: Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, reducing its effectiveness. Replacing it periodically keeps your brakes responsive and safe. 3. Building a Maintenance Plan One of the most common frustrations car owners face is the unexpected cost of repairs. Without a plan, these expenses can catch you off guard. On average, it costs about $3000 a year to maintain a vehicle that’s driven 15,000 miles or less each year. Of course, if you drive more, the cost will increase. But the key to avoiding surprise expenses is having a budget and a plan for your car’s upkeep. Our expert technicians can provide a complete inspection and build a maintenance schedule tailored to your driving habits and vehicle's needs. Here’s why it’s important: Preventative Care: With a plan, you can address issues before they become major problems, saving you money in the long run. Budgeting: Knowing when to expect certain repairs or replacements allows you to plan financially, avoiding sticker shock when you visit the repair shop. Safety: Regular maintenance ensures your car is safe to drive, reducing the risk of breakdowns or accidents. 4. Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until It’s Too Late Without a solid maintenance plan, repairs can become unpredictable and costly. If you’re not prepared, a sudden breakdown or failure can lead to frustration and unnecessary stress. Many vehicle owners end up spending more on emergency repairs simply because they didn't plan for routine maintenance. Unexpected Costs: Neglecting maintenance means you could face significant repairs like engine or transmission failure, which can cost thousands of dollars. Stress-Free Auto Care: With a plan in place, you’ll never have to worry about surprise expenses or emergency repairs again. 5. Let Us Build a Plan for You  We offer more than just repairs—we help you create a long-term plan for maintaining your vehicle. Our ASE-certified master technicians will give your car a complete check-up and work with you to develop a maintenance schedule that fits your driving habits and budget. Plus, our front counter staff is here to answer any questions and ensure you understand every step of the process. Conclusion: Auto care services are an investment in the longevity and performance of your vehicle. From shocks and struts to filters and fluids, keeping track of your car's maintenance needs can feel daunting—but it doesn’t have to be. Come on down to, and let our experienced team help you build a personalized maintenance plan. With the right plan in place, you can keep your car running smoothly without any surprises. https://youtu.be/PVXSEn9T_pA
By Mathew Flack 09 Sep, 2024
Why does my car make noise when i turn?
By Mathew Flack 06 Sep, 2024
Auto repair near me
More Posts
Share by: