Does your car make a distinct squeaking sound every time you turn? There are several possible reasons, and not all of them require a sprint to the mechanic.
Is your car making strange noises when turning? If so, you’re probably experiencing a combination of frustration, annoyance, and fear. But however tempting it may be to drown out those pesky sounds with your radio, unwanted noises are often a car’s way of telling the driver that something is wrong. Fortunately, a squeaking sound while turning is relatively common and easy to diagnose. There are several issues that can cause this problem, but luckily, most of them are cheap to fix and require minimal equipment and skills — although, like everything, there are exceptions.
Typically, squealing or squeaking sounds when turning are due to a problem with the power steering system. This can range from something as simple as low power steering fluid to a severe issue like a faulty power steering pump. Other potential causes of squeaking sounds may include damaged suspension system components or even a fresh set of tires.Low power steering fluid
One of the most common causes of a squeaking sound while turning is low power steering fluid. While many modern vehicles utilize electric power steering systems, many cars still feature hydraulic power steering. These cars use a pump and hydraulic or power steering fluid to help drivers turn the steering wheel.
Hydraulic power steering systems are closed — meaning that the fluid level should not drop under normal circumstances — but they are subject to wear and tear, and it’s not unusual for a car to develop small fluid leaks over time. If the power steering fluid level drops too low, the hydraulic power steering pump won’t be able to pressurize the system properly, potentially causing a stiff steering wheel and loud, high-pitched squealing noises while turning the wheel.
