Toyota RAV4 Creaking noise when turning the steering wheel Inspection at your home or office.

Common reasons for this to happen:

• Worn Shocks/Struts: Your shocks and struts are most likely the gas-filled type. They’re good at what they do, but they do wear out. If you’ve noticed fluid on the side of one of your front shocks, chances are good that it’s blown and needs to be replaced. You may also notice that your car feels very loose and bouncy when going over bumps or through turns.

• Dry Jounce Bushing: The jounce bushing is located at the top of the front strut. If it’s dry, it can cause a groaning/creaking sound during turns. If not repaired, this problem can become more serious.

• Dry/Damaged Suspension Bushings: Bushings wear out over time. Eventually, they crack, deteriorate, and must be replaced. It’s possible that this is causing the creaking while turning the steering wheel.

• Worn Ball Joints: Ball joints allow control arms and steering knuckles to adjust to movement. They must be well lubricated in order to do their job, but the grease can wear out over time. When this occurs, expect to experience noise and deterioration.

• Damaged Tie Rod Ends: Tie rods connect your steering system to help move the wheels when you turn your steering wheel. Creaking while turning can be a sign of damaged tie rods, but it’s more usual to hear a knocking sound when making tight, low-speed turns.

• Damaged Power Steering Pump/Rack/Belt: Usually, problems with the power steering rack, pump or belt cause a whining sound, more noticeable during low speed turns. However, that can be mistaken for a creaking sound.