What causes a vehicle to emit a sound specifically during right turns, but not during left ones?
In the world of automobiles, it's not uncommon for vehicles to make noises when turning. These sounds can range from a simple squeal to a more concerning clunk or grind. In this article, we'll explore the potential causes of these noises and provide some solutions to help you get back on the road.
Common Causes and Solutions
Cars make noise when turning primarily due to issues related to the power steering system, worn CV joints, wheel bearings, or suspension components.
- Low power steering fluid or a failing power steering pump can cause whining or squealing noises when turning the steering wheel. Fix involves checking and refilling the fluid, repairing leaks, or replacing the pump or belts if worn.
- Worn CV (constant velocity) joints, especially noticeable at low to medium speeds during turns, produce clicking or clunking noises. The solution is usually to replace the affected CV axle before failure.
- Bad wheel bearings generate humming or rumbling noises that get louder or change when turning or with speed. Replacing the hub assembly or wheel bearings is required.
- Loose or damaged suspension components, such as sway bar links, control arms, or bushings, can cause clunking or rattling noises during turns or over bumps. Fixes include inspecting and replacing worn suspension parts.
Additional causes might include slipping or worn belts creating squealing noises during turning maneuvers and low power steering fluid exacerbated by fluid leaks or belt wear.
Diagnostic Approach
The common diagnostic approach is:
- Check power steering fluid level and condition; refill or repair leaks as needed.
- Inspect CV joints for wear and replace faulty axles.
- Examine wheel bearings for play or noise and replace if defective.
- Inspect suspension components for looseness or damage and replace worn parts.
Timely diagnosis and repair are important to avoid worsening damage or safety hazards like loss of steering assist or wheel instability.
Specific Cases
- A bad CV joint may cause a clunky, crunching sound when turning right but not left. The suspension system, tie rod, bushings, struts, or shocks can also cause noise when turning right.
- A faulty strut or shock may cause creaking and cracking noises when turning. The cost of repairing the steering rack or pinion depends on the vehicle and the parts' prices. It could be as low as $500, or as high as $4,000.
- If a vehicle is only making noise when turning right, it may be due to a problem with the suspension system, tires, or components connecting them. A dry or damaged tie rod may result in a clunking, squealing, or thumping sound, while a faulty suspension ball joint may cause creaking or popping noises when turning.
- A bad alignment may cause screeching or grinding noises. Realignment should not be expensive and usually runs about $75-150.
- A dry or damaged bushing may cause a rattling noise. Replacing a bushing will cost around $250-300.
- A system flush can fix contaminated power steering fluid, which is a common cause of a stiff steering wheel.
- A bad wheel bearing may cause a grinding, clicking, or humming noise. Replacing a wheel bearing is about $350. If one bearing has gone bad, others may need to be replaced soon, which would be about $1,400.
Conclusion
This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and fixing noises when turning your car. By following the diagnostic approach and addressing issues promptly, you can ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience. Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional mechanic to have your vehicle inspected and repaired.
References:
- Power Steering Fluid
- CV Joint Noises
- Wheel Bearing Noises
- Suspension Noises
- Power Steering System
- Sway Bar Link
- Tie Rod
- Strut and Shock Assembly
- Steering Rack and Pinion
This article was co-authored by Hovig Manouchekian, an Auto Repair and Design Specialist and the Manager of Funk Brothers Auto, and Eric McClure.
Cars in the automotive industry, especially those in need of regular car-maintenance, may encounter noises during turning due to issues in the power steering system, finance for repair being an essential lifestyle consideration. For instance, low power steering fluid or failing power steering pumps can cause whining noises, which could be remedied by checking and refilling the fluid, or replacing the pump and belts if necessary.
The finance sector also plays a role in wheel bearing replacements, given that worn and defective wheel bearings generate humming or rumbling noises that are necessary to address to ensure a steady and safe transportation environment.
Moreover, maintenance of suspension components, such as sway bar links, control arms, and bushings, is vital for a smoother lifestyle, as loose or damaged parts can lead to clunking or rattling noises during turns or over bumps, requiring inspection and replacement to maintain the vehicle's health and functionality.
