Q: Groaning noise in SUV front end

asked by on June 24, 2016

My SUV has around 112,000 miles. Lately, there has been a groaning noise in the front end, when I start the car, when I accelerate, and it is the worst when I make turns. After the car warms up, the problem dissipates, but never goes away completely. There is plenty of power steering fluid. What should I check for next and how do I fix this?

Car is making a noise Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. There are several components that could be causing this problem. The power steering pump, serpentine belt tensioner, serpentine belt pulley, or water pump could be going bad. It is also possible that the compressor clutch is faulty. I would recommend that you have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, complete an inspection of your vehicle to pinpoint why your car is making a noise.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car starts and stall with a Check Engine, EPC, and Power Control light coming on.
This issue may be related to a malfunctioning crankshaft or camshaft position sensor. These sensors monitor the position of both shafts and send feedback to the PCM (engine computer) which then sends signals to multiple other things such as fuel...
Bad u-joint making noise.
Hello. As a Jeep ages, many of the front end parts can wear out and become loose. From the description of the noise it sounds like you either have a worn out front shock or you may have a bad...
Hood won't open in 2007 Chevrolet Aveo
Hi there. Most of the time when the hood will no longer release on the Aveo. This is because the release cable has broken from the release handle under the dash. You can typically pull the handle and visually see...
Steering wheel squeaks in reverse and when turning
Since the noise appears to occur while turning, I would have your mechanic check for a loose or failing accessory drive belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/serpentine-drive-belt-replacement) (often called a 'serpentine" belt). Turning puts more load on this belt, and it may be slipping....
Catalytic converter going bad. Can I prolong its life?
Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done to prolong the life of the catalytic converter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-catalytic-converter-last) as they are very expensive to manufacture, thus the high cost of replacement. In order for the converter to work effectively, there...
My car is slow to accelerate, and it stalls in drive and reverse
This may be related to a dirty or failing idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement). The idle air control valve monitors the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low speeds and...
Can failure of a transfer case cause damage to a differential?
Hi there. Based on the mileage of your vehicle, its possible that the seal could have gone out on its own. A dynamic seal (seal on a shaft) will last for up to 80,000 miles on normal conditions, however, this...
My key fob doesn't unlock my 2007 Pontiac Grand prix and my obd 2 reader won't connect.
As far as the malfunctioning key fob, it may be time for a new unit. The contacts may be worn out on the circuit board inside the device or the button may be worn and not making enough contact. You...

Related articles

How to Buy a Good Quality Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
Your Your vehicle runs smoothly while you’re driving down the road due to the power steering fluid, making it important to assure that the fluid doesn’t leak. Check your power steering fluid reservoir regularly for cracks and chips and leakage...
How to Buy a Good Quality Power Steering Hose
One One of the most overlooked components, and one that can be the most beneficial in keeping your power steering system in good working order, is the power steering hose. It allows the pressurized power steering rack to stabilize the...
How Long Does a Center (Drag) Link Last?
The The center link has ball joints on either end, and connects the pitman arm and idler arm on your car’s suspension. This part is sometimes called the relay rod or the drag link. The main purpose of the center...