Trucks normally make small noises while driving, especially if you have an older truck. However, hearing unusual noises frequently could be a sign there is an underlying problem.
If your truck squeaks every time you turn, you probably want to know why it does that. We looked up the facts, and here is what we learned about the matter!
Why Does My Truck Squeak When I Turn?
Trucks squeak when you turn due to an internal issue within the truck, such as a failing steering column or a faulty CV joint. Occasionally, newer trucks may have manufacturing defects that cause friction, creating squeaking sounds. Unusual road surfaces like rubber roads can make it sound like your car is making squeaking noises.
Are you curious to learn more reasons why your truck squeaks while turning? We compiled a list of reasons, so keep reading!
1. Faulty CV Joint
You likely have a faulty CV joint if your truck constantly squeaks when you turn at a low speed.
That said, CV joints have a protective boot that has grease and is sealed, but your CV joint can run dry if the CV joint gets damaged.
Since the CV joint will be dry, you will notice squealing, crunching, or clicking noises whenever you turn your truck.
Generally, you have to replace your CV joint to fix this problem since mechanics do not usually repair CV joints.
2. The Power Steering System
If you are low on power steering fluid, it could lead to a squealing noise whenever you turn your truck.
Usually, lacking power steering fluid means that your steering wheel will be hard to turn. However, it could mean that your power steering system is failing if the noise is very loud.
So, if you only lack power steering fluid, you must top it off with more fluid. On the other hand, a leaky power steering system will likely need to be replaced.
3. Old Steering Wheel Belt
A loose or worn-out steering wheel belt will squeak whenever you try to turn your truck. Typically, the squeaking noise will get louder as the steering wheel belt gets looser and weaker.
Usually, this should signal you to replace your steering wheel belt immediately because the belt can snap, rendering your power steering useless.
Also, if your steering wheel belt gets very loose or snaps, it will be very difficult for you to turn your truck, or you may be unable to use your steering wheel.
4. Steering Wheel Friction
If you have a new truck, a manufacturing defect in your vehicle can create steering wheel friction that makes your truck squeak when you turn.
In newer trucks, the plastic materials tend to rub against the interior trims. However, this sound can occur without any relation to the steering system.
Usually, the best way to fix this problem is by bringing your truck back to the dealership since a manufacturing error likely caused the squeaking noise.
5. Chassis And Suspension Noises
Your truck could have an issue with the chassis and front suspension parts if there are squeaking noises whenever you go over bumps and turn.
Occasionally, a squeaky suspension may not be a cause for concern, given that you have checked the control arms first.
If you have an older truck, it could be because your truck’s suspension parts do not have enough lubrication since older trucks tend to lose lubrication quickly.
Also, whenever you change your truck’s oil, be sure to get your U-joints, tie-rod ends, and ball joints lubricated to avoid squeaking noises.
6. Steering Column Issues
It is very rare for the steering column to fail, but a failing steering column could be why your truck squeaks when you turn or drive over bumps.
Normally, a bad steering column will create squeaking noises from a lack of grease within the steering column clutch, the steering column rubbing the dust cover or cheap plastic housing.
Additionally, you can tell that something is wrong with your steering column if you feel your steering wheel vibrate.
Typically, a faulty steering column would be curved instead of straight, causing friction between the parts to create vibrations and squealing noises.
As such, the severity of the vibrations and squeaking noises would depend on how badly damaged your steering column is.
7. Faulty Ball Joints
If you hear a clunky metal noise or a squeaking noise from your truck’s wheels, it could mean you have bad ball joints.
With that, your truck’s ball joints are connected to your truck’s steering and suspension system along with the truck’s wheels.
Normally, the ball joints must be lubricated to make them move smoothly and quietly. Therefore, dry ball joints will cause a lot of noise whenever you try to turn your truck.
8. Loose Exterior And Interior Trim
You likely have loose exterior and interior trim that rubs another part if your truck squeaks whenever you brake and turn.
Generally, this means you must reattach the trims to keep the noise from occurring, but you will have to locate the sound first.
9. Unusual Roads
If there is nothing wrong with your truck, it could be that you are driving on an unusual road that is making squeaking sounds.
For instance, driving your truck over a rubber road surface could make you think that your truck makes a squeaking noise when you turn.
Also, your truck tire’s tread type and composition could affect the noises the wheels make.
To know more, you can also read our posts on why truck tires have spikes, why your car won’t jump start, and why your car radio display is not working.
Conclusion
Typically, trucks squeak when you turn because of an internal issue, which can be a bad CV joint, low power steering fluid, and a faulty suspension system.
However, the problem may not always be inside your car because driving on unusual roads or having loose exterior and interior trims can lead to squeaking noises.