I hear a whooshing sound when I turn the steering wheel. If I make a sharp turn, I hear a grinding sound coming from the back. ???

ANSWER : Hi there. In most cases, the rear knocking sound is caused by the driveshaft, drive axles, differential gears, transmission mount, or the rear struts. The sound you’re experiencing is very difficult to diagnose, but could be caused by the power steering shaft, or you power steering system being low on fluid. It might be a good idea to have a professional mechanic complete a car is making a noise inspection.

ANSWER : Hello Kate. When dealing with power steering concerns always start by simply checking the level of power steering fluid. If it is not burned, low, or a bad color your issue is likely related to the suspension. The steering and suspension components both have an incredible effect on each other. You can often feel popping from the CV-joints, axle issues, ball joints, and worn bushings. You will want to raise the vehicle off of the ground to get a better look at some of these components. However, should do a visual inspection both on the ground and in the air however to compare the tires when they are under pressure and when they are "unsprung". If you do not see anything out of the normal, have someone turn the steering wheel clock to clock to attempt to recreate the popping while its raised off the ground. Only further testing will pin point the issue, but it may be suspension related instead of a power steering issue.

ANSWER : The problem to me sounds like you have worn out bushings that hold the power steering rack and pinion assembly. This is why your steering wheel gets off center in the direction of the turn. Have the steering inspected and the bushings replaced if they are bad. You should have no problems then.

ANSWER : The steering lock may not be unlocking either due to a faulty ignition lock housing or more commonly as the cars age a faulty spring at the steering wheel on the under side of the column. If the ignition lock housing is the issue the housing can be replaced. It s a bit tricky as the mounting bolt has break off heads and generally need to be driven out with a punch. If the lock is not disengaging because of a faulty spring on the ignition lock many owners have had the spring removed by having it drilled out of the housing. However, removing the spring may permanently disable the steering lock. The last option would be to replace the steering column. You may want to enlist the help of a mechanic who can recommend the proper repair for your situation.

ANSWER : Thank you for the detailed information, it helps! The front driver side is where the majority of the steering components are located. Start by checking the power steering fluid. The best option is to raise the vehicle and inspect that side of the vehicle. You will want to look at the steering gear box, the linkage, and on down to the wheel hubs. This should include an inspection of the control arms, and other suspension components as well. Steering and suspension are very closely related and have adverse effects on each other. If you see any power steering fluid leaking, look to the steering gear for damages or a failed seal. The control arms also have CV joints that make similar noises to what you described. If those are cracked, leaking, or crushed they will need to be replaced.

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. Checking the brakes was a great place to start. At this point the first thing we need to find out is if symptoms happen always, or only when driving over bumpy roads. If you feel it only when going over bumps, you want to check the suspension. If the suspension is not up to par on the vehicle, you will feel and fight those forces in the steering wheel. You can perform a bounce test, and do a visual inspection to see if the suspension shows any signs of leakage or damage. This would include the ball joints. If the suspension seems to be okay, you want to turn your attention to the rack and pinion. For more help with diagnostics and resolving the issue, contact our service department.

ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. The first thing to check is the level of your power steering fluid. Is the fluid full and in good condition? If the pump is worn out, or has been run dry, it may need to be replaced. If the fluid is low or empty, refill and test drive the vehicle. Keep in mind if the power steering fluid is low, that means you likely have a leak in the system somewhere. Tracing that leak should be relatively easy to do, but you may need to be under the vehicle to complete a visual inspection. If you would like help, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.

ANSWER : Hi there. From the description you have provided, concerning your vehicle’s steering wheel is locked far right and key won’t turn with the front wheels in a forward default position, is somewhat confusing to me. It could be, undo pressure is being applied to the steering wheel lock. You could try, physically moving the left front tire side to side in either direction, to relieve the pressure on the steering wheel lock. It could be, the key you are using has a problem, try another key if available. It could be, the ignition lock cylinder is at fault. I recommend having your vehicle’s can’t turn the key be diagnosed and repaired by a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic.