Steering Squeaks
Asked by Garrett Aug 10, 2009 at 11:35 AM about the FIAT 124 Spider
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
Every time i turn the steering wheel, it makes a squeaking sounds, usually when the car is barely moving. This pretty much ruins the impression people get when they see the old car and are impressed until it starts making that noise! What's the best way way to quiet that down? I was thinking just WD-40 all steering connections, would that work?
6 Answers
massari_art1 answered 15 years ago
Try to replace the ball joints (upper and lower), usually after 10 years they start to damage and the rubber becomes dry. Lock the nuts with the right torque tightening.If you can replace also the tie rods (very cheap)
Thanks, i actually even have an extra set of ball joints! Although the fiat is in storage for the winter, i'll keep that in mind.
Mine does that. My oldest daughter says the car is talking. "I don't want to go that way... why are we going THAT way?"
On mine, every time you turn the wheel there is a loud noise from the right side. Trying to isolate the source by removing the right tie rod arm, but it will not release. After removing the bolt holding the tie rod on, it will not drop out, even after some raps from a rubber hammer. Anyone know a trick (or tool) that can motivate the bolt free?
You need a tie-rod fork. it literally looks like a fork. You'll need to insert it on either side of the tie-rod and whack the back of the fork until it just pops out. I've included a picture of a ball-joint fork which looks very similar, if not the same tool. hope that helps
you may also want to check the idler arm