Q: Hard to turn steering wheel

asked by on February 22, 2016

It is hard to turn the steering wheel, and it makes a noise while driving.

It sounds like you are low on power steering fluid; power steering pumps are very noisy when they are low on fluid. You will also lack power assist. Check the reservoir with the engine off; if the fluid level is low, add fluid until it is at the full mark. Start the engine; it will take some time for the pump to quiet down. Look under the car for major leaks, shut it off and check the fluid again. Chances are you have a leak, but it is possible that the pump has gone bad if the fluid level was ok, but the wheel is hard to turn. I recommend having a certified technician come out to your Maxima’s location to run a diagnostic inspection on your steering wheel’s difficulty turning, then suggest the best path to repair.

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

How do I disarm the anti-theft system?
Disarming the anti-theft system can be accomplished in three easy steps: 1. Press the unlock button on the remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter. 2. Place the key in the ignition, and turn the ignition to ON/RUN. 3. Wait 30 seconds....
How do I adjust the instrument panel brightness in a 2012 Honda CR-V?
The instrument panel brightness can be adjusted so that it is as bright or as dim as is comfortable for your eyes. It is very easy to adjust the brightness: 1. Turn the ignition to On. 2. Turn the parking...
Leaking coolant hoses
Hello, a leaking cooling system is something that needs to repaired sooner than later. If the vehicle overheats that can lead costly repairs or engine failure. You should get the aid of a mechanic who can pressurize the cooling system...
Weird helicopter noise while braking - 2012 Toyota Corolla
Hello. Based on the symptoms you are experiencing, I would first recommend having your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine if your brakes and suspension components are performing properly. If your steering wheel is shaking when you slow...
Transmission goes into reverse but not drive.
This is likely a sign of low transmission fluid. I would recommend checking the fluid first to see if this does not fix your issue. If this does not solve the problem, this may be a faulty transmission control solenoid....
Brake Too Low of a force and pedal goes to the floor easy.
Hi there. Check the ABS (anti lock brakes) control module for any air in it. Sometimes when bleeding the brakes, the air will travel to locations within the brake system and get trapped. The module needs bleed with the brake...
Heater is not working
The lack of heat being generated by your system may indicate a clogged heater core. The [heater core]((https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/heater-is-not-working-inspection) is a small radiator like unit that circulates the hot coolant from the engine through the heater core which then uses this...
What makes an automatic transmission not to change gears?
Hi there. Check the throttle cable to the transmission and make sure that its not broken or loose. If the transmission does not have a kick down cable, then the kick down solenoid could be not working causing the transmission...
Low oil frequently
It is considered normal for a cars engine to consume some oil under normal conditions. Most manufacturers have an amount for their engine oil consumption and is on average a quart of oil for every 1000 miles is considered normal....

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a Hilly Area
Do Do you live in terrain that is hilly? Do your city streets feature plenty of inclines and declines that can be nothing short of treacherous in miserable weather? If so, when it’s time to purchase a car you’re looking...
How Long Does a Horn Switch Last?
With With all of the danger on the roadways, finding a way to keep yourself and your car safe should be a concern. A car has a variety of different mechanisms that are built into it that will allow for...
How Long Do Wheel Bearings Last?
Most Most people take for granted all of the systems that have to work together in order for their car to run. Making a car mobile is a lot harder than most people think. The power that the engine produces...