Rubbing or moaning sound steering wheel
#1
Rubbing or moaning sound steering wheel
I have a 2003 Escape that has a what I would describe as a moaning or rubbing sound coming from the steering wheel when turning the wheel. At first I thought it was coming from a bad tie rod end but I do not hear anything next to tires. I tried spraying white lithium grease between wheel and column. But that made no difference.
Anyone ever have this or know what I can do to quiet the rubbing noise. It is kinda embarrassing when others are in my car. Also all my cruise control and horn buttons work. Maybe clock spring needs lubed, and if so is it even possible on this car?
Wheel does turn effortlessly, and no issues with power steering pump.
Thanks
Anyone ever have this or know what I can do to quiet the rubbing noise. It is kinda embarrassing when others are in my car. Also all my cruise control and horn buttons work. Maybe clock spring needs lubed, and if so is it even possible on this car?
Wheel does turn effortlessly, and no issues with power steering pump.
Thanks
#4
I think I remember reading that the swaybar links can do that. They attach to the strut about halfway up and the upper attach point twists with the wheel turning. Mine grunts once in a while but only when cold.
Easy way to test it if you trust your helper... start the engine and reach up under the front end and have someone turn the wheel to make the sound. If you grab the sway bar link you can feel it vibrate as the rubber slides against the steel.
OBSERVE THE FULL MOTION OF THE TURNING WHEEL BEFORE REACHING IN TO PREVENT BEING PINCHED or use a wooden dowel to press against it. The vibration will transfer through the stick.
It's likely the wheels don't need to be turned much to make the noise.
Easy way to test it if you trust your helper... start the engine and reach up under the front end and have someone turn the wheel to make the sound. If you grab the sway bar link you can feel it vibrate as the rubber slides against the steel.
OBSERVE THE FULL MOTION OF THE TURNING WHEEL BEFORE REACHING IN TO PREVENT BEING PINCHED or use a wooden dowel to press against it. The vibration will transfer through the stick.
It's likely the wheels don't need to be turned much to make the noise.
#6
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#8
I fixed it tonight by spraying white lithium grease at the bottom of the steering column inside the cabin next to the firewall at the boot and the intermediate shaft, (Think that is what it is called) then turned the wheel each direction several times. Problem fixed no more noises
Now I am wondering if I should have used a silicone spray instead of white lithium grease on the rubber boot. I remember reading that petrolatum based grease isn't good for rubber. I may try and wipe off what lithium grease off the boot and spray it good with silicone.
I was sure the rubbing was coming right below the airbag, you could feel it, and defiantly hear it, turned out it was indeed further down.
Thanks everyone for all your suggestions.
Now I am wondering if I should have used a silicone spray instead of white lithium grease on the rubber boot. I remember reading that petrolatum based grease isn't good for rubber. I may try and wipe off what lithium grease off the boot and spray it good with silicone.
I was sure the rubbing was coming right below the airbag, you could feel it, and defiantly hear it, turned out it was indeed further down.
Thanks everyone for all your suggestions.
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