Noisy steering!!!
Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 4,371
From: NC USA
My steering on this car is about to drive me CRAZY. When I turn the wheel to the right at stopped or very low speeds, *creeeeeeeeaaaaaak*. It sounds like a rubber shoe on a wet linoleum floor, but not very loud.
It's not a drivability issue (so they say), but it's driving me NUTS. I've had it in twice, both times for a full day, and once they replaced the cable reel (nope) and the other, they lubricated something in the rack (Nope!). Neither worked. I'm not taking it back again JUST for that, since it's not affecting driving, but what could be the problem here?
It's not a drivability issue (so they say), but it's driving me NUTS. I've had it in twice, both times for a full day, and once they replaced the cable reel (nope) and the other, they lubricated something in the rack (Nope!). Neither worked. I'm not taking it back again JUST for that, since it's not affecting driving, but what could be the problem here?
This got the troops here aroused. We have a wireless mike we use to track down sounds so we'll depend on your info so far.
1. Is the creaking noise quick or extended? We presumed extended by your 'sound;' but it depends on how quickly you turn the steering wheel. If the sound is quick with fast turn and extended with slow turni we think its the u joints in the steering column (the two exposed). By your location in the dashboard behind the steering wheel we think the upper one. It is possible that the u joint squeaks as it rotates because of insufficient clearances in the joint. Try spraying WD40 profusely into the joint pins, protecting the stuff around) and see if the sound changes.
2. The bearings in the steering column assembly can sqeak, too. The steering column assembly must be disconnected from the steering shaft preferably at the upper u joint. If the seaking is still there the assembly as a unit is the source and needs to be replaced. Dealer will love that.
If there's no squeak its probably one or both u joints.
post what you find so we can all benefit.
good luck.
Last edited by mahout; Aug 10, 2011 at 12:56 PM.
Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 4,371
From: NC USA
Silicone lubes are better lubricants for long term but unfortunately not as penetrating as WD40 so doesn't get in the pins as well. Truth is, the designated penetrating oils are best but a bit harder to find unless you are close to Lowes or Home Depot.
Member
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 3,417
From: Capital Distric New York
I rely on an old aerosol can of Marvel Mystery Oil - not even sure they still produce it any more as a penetrating oil in the spray can. PB BLASTER PENETRATING OIL is used in many repair shops, worth finding. Most auto shops will carry it.
New Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 2
From: PA
I have the same grinding/scraping sound when I'm at a stop and I cut the wheel and accelerate. I bought the car just a few days ago from a reputable dealer so hopefully the warranty will cover what is wrong with it. This car is so much fun to drive and looks awesome, but this noise is making me nervous. It's an 08 with just over 45K miles on it. I have faith in Honda so I'm guessing its something minor...
Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,355
From: Massachusetts
Is this with the steering wheel fully turned? Does it go away instantly when you start to straighten the wheel?
Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,704
From: Second house on the left
If the noise is like old, hard rubber, rubbing on the pavement....
maybe it is.
If your tires are old and hard (more than 4 years old, getting up in miles with lots of heat cycles on them) that's a possible cause.
With today's modern rubber, the manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 5 - 6 years TOPS. Looking at the "sneakers" on our '07 with 62K miles (OE Dunlops), the rubber seems dried and cracked. Could very possibly making that noise.
(The good news: is that old, dry, hard rubber offers reduced rolling resistance and better gas mileage.)
maybe it is.
If your tires are old and hard (more than 4 years old, getting up in miles with lots of heat cycles on them) that's a possible cause.
With today's modern rubber, the manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 5 - 6 years TOPS. Looking at the "sneakers" on our '07 with 62K miles (OE Dunlops), the rubber seems dried and cracked. Could very possibly making that noise.
(The good news: is that old, dry, hard rubber offers reduced rolling resistance and better gas mileage.)
New Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 10
From: Vancouver
this may be worth a shot, as a cost effective way to eliminate the problem,
but have you or the mechanic tried loosening the steering rack and then retorquing it?
i had similar issues. the rack was moving a bit everytime i turned. making uneasy noise.
either case, it doesnt cost you money in terms of parts, and can be done by yourself.
but have you or the mechanic tried loosening the steering rack and then retorquing it?
i had similar issues. the rack was moving a bit everytime i turned. making uneasy noise.
either case, it doesnt cost you money in terms of parts, and can be done by yourself.
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