Steering wheel whines when turning it

[Firefighter2]

I just purchased a 1998 Wrangler TJ and my steering wheel makes a whining noise when I turn it. What would cause this and how would you fix it?

 

[J.Pierce]

Check the grommet where it goes through the firewall. It could possibly be squeaking there. As far as the rest of the steering column goes, I've never had mine apart so no help there from me.

 

[Rickyd]

Do you mean the rubber boot at the firewall is squeaking when you turn? Some silicon spray on the inside where it passes through will help

 

[PNW_LJ]

Is it difficult to turn the steering wheel?

 

[Danarch]

Sometimes if it’s low on fluid the steering will make a noise. Not sure I’d call it a whine, but can make a noise.

 

[Obi-Wan]

my steering wheel makes a wining noise when I turn it

 

[macleanflood]

Mine does the same thing. Guessing it's the grommet but my mid shaft looks pretty sketchy. Should have swapped it when I did my frame and tub swap.

-Mac

 

[L J]

 

[TheBoogieman]

my steering wheel makes a wHining noise when I turn it. What would cause this and how would you fix it?

Maybe you're squeezing it too tight and hurting it.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

I just purchased a 1998 Wrangler TJ and my steering wheel makes a whining noise when I turn it. What would cause this and how would you fix it?

A squeaking noise? If so spray both sides of the rubber boot in the firewall the steering shaft passes through with an aerosol white lithium grease. That's a common and widely known source of squeaking made when turning the steering wheel. Also check the power steering reservoir for enough power steering fluid too, it could be too low which will cause whining from cavitation.

 

[Tob]

It is most likely cavitation of fluid inside the power steering pump. Check the fluid level inside the reservoir and report back.

 

[C.J. Roberts]

My midshaft bearing was worn, and made more of a hum, not loud, but noticeable. Solution was a replacement midshaft.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/3144119950...d=link&campid=5337789113&toolid=20001&mkevt=1

 

[SSTJ]

Helpful replies. This happens to mine in the winter, so I'm expecting it to start again soon.

 

[Andy-WhiteTJ]

Helpful replies. This happens to mine in the winter, so I'm expecting it to start again soon.

Mine does too. I usually say it's the geese flying back south for the winter. LOL.

 

[SSTJ]

Mine does too. I usually say it's the geese flying back south for the winter. LOL.

Exactly.

 

[KennethS]

Mine also squeals during the winter. I determined it is the rubber firewall grommet, and spraying it with silicone lubricant stops the noise.

 

[Firefighter2]

Here is a video of the noise it is making.

Is it difficult to turn the steering wheel?

not really

 

[Firefighter2]

Exactly.

That’s a good description…..lol

 

[Firefighter2]

Mine does too. I usually say it's the geese flying back south for the winter. LOL.

That’s a good description…….lol

 

[Firefighter2]

It is most likely cavitation of fluid inside the power steering pump. Check the fluid level inside the reservoir and report back.

Here is what it sounds like. I haven’t been able to check the fluid level yet.