As we have also listed the causes of any noise coming from your Vauxhall Steering Rack. These noises will give you plenty of warning of any failure of your Vauxhall Steering Rack and by identifying the noise you will be able to give us a better description of the fault at the time of booking in for repair.
Clunking Over Bumps
Dull clunk felt through the steering wheel when going over bumps, could be worn Rack Mounting Bushes. These are the rubber bushes that hold the Rack Body to the Subframe, and once they have deteriorated the Rack can move slightly under load. The noise is generally worse at low speed.
Knocking on Full Lock
A sharp knocking sound when turning at lock – typically when pulling out of a junction for example – is likely to be caused by worn tie-rod ends. The ball joints inside the ends of the tie-rods will have run out of grease and developed excessive play, causing them to knock against the inside of their housings. See also vauxhall steering racks.
Squealing During Slow Turns
The High Pitched Squeal noise whilst parking or low speed turns are often associated with power steering fluid problems. The noise is often described as a high pitched squeal and is caused by low levels of fluid or fluid that has degraded to the point where it has lost its lubricating properties and is unable to provide the necessary assistance to the pump. Refer to your owner’s manual for guidance on checking the level and also the correct type of fluid to use.
Grinding Under Steering Load
A grinding or grating noise that occurs when holding a turn under heavy loads, such as whilst negotiating a roundabout, is likely to be caused by wear on the steering rack’s rotary valve. A worn steering rack rotary valve is a common problem on high mileage Vauxhall vehicles and tends to get worse over time. In the meantime, look for play in the outer ends of the rack, as well as for any signs of scoring on the inner surfaces of the rack.
Any persistent noise or movement whilst steering is likely to be taken seriously during your MOT test under MOT steering inspection criteria. It’s always best to have any issues investigated and repaired prior to your test to avoid any potential failure.
