Diagnosing Car Problems by Power-Steering Wheel Noises

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Diagnosing Car Problems by Power-Steering Wheel Noises
Published: Tue April 15th, 2008
By: Joyce Priddy
Category: Automotive

Your car is often as big an investment or even larger than your home. Many people make car payments that are equal to or even more than their rent or house payment. Spending so much time in a car and so much money to purchase one, it is important to understand the language of your car. Through the sounds and vibrations of a car, we can listen to our car's language and learn a great deal about what is happening to know if repairs are needed or if things are running smoothly. When you hear power steering wheel noises, it is important to understand them. Certain power-steering wheel noises may spell trouble and upcoming repairs. Pay attention to the power-steering wheel noises and learn what different sounds can mean.

Deep Growl Power-Steering Wheel Noises

Sometimes your car will make deep growl power steering wheel noises. This is your car's way of groaning and complaining that the power steering wheel fluid might be low or belts might be wearing. If you hear this noise, check the fluid and belts. Often you can fix this problem yourself without taking your car into the repair shop.

Swishing Type Power-Steering Wheel Noises

You know the sound where it goes swish, swish, swoosh and so forth. Hopefully this is not one of the power steering wheel noises that you will hear. However, it is the problem is usually repairable without taking the car into the repair shop. Typically this type of power steering wheel noise is accompanied by a malfunction or situation with the pump control. The pump control valve might have cracks or other problems and need replacing. You can get a kit at the auto store to make this repair.

Squealing Power-Steering Wheel Noise

Squealing is a very obnoxious noise that you car can make. You can have squeals from other areas of the auto than just the power steering. However, if you turn your wheel completely and it squeals there is usually a problem. The most common reason that you will have squealing power steering wheel noises is due to low power steering fluid or a bad belt. The fluid can easily be replaced. You can replace the belts or check them for glazing. Sometimes, you can adjust the belt without replacement. It depends on the age of the car and how bad the problem is. Many people take their cars in to have the belts replaced and adjusted.

Rattling Power-Steering Wheel Noises

Racking power steering wheel noises are definitely not good and can be dangerous. The belt may have slipped completely or the steering linkage might be damaged. You can drive a car without the belt, but it's not safe. Sometimes the pressure hose can come loose and need to be replaced and reattached. It is important to know that the linkage has to be repaired. You can have the steering jerking everywhere or even lose control of the car. If you hear racking sounds, take the car immediately to your trusted auto repair person.

Source:
http://mobile.associatedcontent.com/article/707871/diagnosing_car_problems_by_powersteering.html