Why does my BMW make a noise when I turn?

When you own a luxury car like BMW, you expect a top-tier performance along with beauty and comfort. But despite being such a brilliant piece, your car may encounter issues over time just like any other automobile and frustrate you at the end of the day, ruining your overall road time experience. One such common issue often experienced by BMW riders is the steering wheel producing unusual sounds while making turns. This can truly mess up your smooth and quiet driving experience and may also cause significant damage to the entire steering system if left untreated. This noise may seem something minor, but neglecting it can be hazardous and may cause road crashes since the steering wheel is the only component through which you balance and navigate your vehicle according to your wish. So, this article will explain why your BMW makes noise when you steer and the ways to tackle this.

1. Insufficient power steering fluid

A frequent cause behind noisy turns is low power steering fluid since it’s responsible for operating the power steering system effortlessly. Thus, when the fluid level degrades below the minimum limit, the steering wheel starts producing odd noises like whining or groaning sounds and struggles to turn. Over time, due to aging and frequent usage, the hoses, pump, or steering rack wear out and start leaking fluid from the weak spots. After hearing these noises, you must check the power steering fluid tank, which is located under the hood. Add more fluid to the container if the level is below the minimum limit. This can be a short-term fix, but it's better to visit the nearest BMW service center and seek professional assistance to seal the leaks or replace the faulty component with a new one to get everything back on track.

2. Damaged power steering pump

Another reason is a faulty power steering pump, which can also trigger loud and abnormal sounds while turning. The primary role of the pump is to move the fluid throughout the system, but just like any auto part, it may wear out eventually. So, with a faulty pump, you may detect a whining or screeching sound, particularly while turning at low speeds. When the power steering pump starts to fail, usually it makes more difficult for you to turn the steering wheel, increasing steering effort. If you think this is the issue, without more delay, you must consult with a certified technician to troubleshoot the exact trouble and replace the faulty pump with a new, high-quality part suitable for your BMW model. A malfunctioning pump can not only put pressure on other steering components but also cause permanent damage to the entire system, draining your wallet on unnecessary repairs in the long run.

3. Dry or deteriorated ball joints

Ball joints usually serve as a connection between the suspension and wheels, allowing seamless vehicle motion. Thus, when they lose lubrication or weaken due to aging or frequent usage, they might produce creaking or popping noises while steering. This problem can be easily spotted if your BMW is quite old or often comes across extreme environmental conditions. You might hear a mild or soft ticking noise at the starting stage of the issue, but the sound can gradually grow louder and deeper, worsening the situation. If the ball joints wear out entirely, they may compromise your vehicle’s control and increase driving risks, leading to hazardous road accidents. Thus, you must hire a trusted mechanic to inspect whether the ball joints need lubrication or complete replacement and do the needful as per the necessity.

The final words

With this, you have come to the end of this comprehensive guide. Hopefully, you have grasped a lot of information about the reasons behind your BMW steering wheel making noises while making turns and the remedies to get rid of the issues. Well, as you have learned, it can be as minor as insufficient power steering fluid and as severe as worn-out ball joints. But if you identify the exact trouble, you can easily deal with the issue, which can save you from expensive repairs and keep your car running smoothly. After all, your BMW deserves the best care.