Q: Steering getting harder to turn

asked by on March 25, 2016

When I turn, my car makes a loud noise. Also, a lot of oil leaks out, like courts. It seems like the steering is getting harder to turn, and it's making a loud, ticking noise when I turn.

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

What does the Seat Belt warning light and chime mean?
It’s vital that you and your passengers are buckled up for safety. Not only is it the law in most US states, but it’s just good common sense. Your Altima is designed to detect when there’s a seat belt not...
How does the tire pressure monitoring system work?
Your car is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that checks the pressure in each tire via a special sensor mounted inside the tire (it’s connected to the valve stem). When the system detects a drop in tire...
How do I deactivate the security alarm?
The security system alarm will activate when someone opens the vehicle without having a key or a remote transmitter. When the security system is activated, the horn will honk and the lights will flash. To deactivate the system, use a...
Vibration in wheel
If they rotated your tires on the original visit (either intentionally or inadvertently) an already out-of-balance tire/wheel from the rear may have been put on front where it could now be felt causing vibration at the steering wheel. Brake rotors...
Sometimes I feel resistance from my gear shifter when shifting and need to use extra force in order to change gears.
Hello. From what you describe it appears that you may possibly have a worn out transmission shifter bushing. This is component serves as a linkage bushing for the shifter, to the transmission. It is made of plastic, and thus, is...
I smell gas under my hood and around my engine.
You could have fuel leaks on the fuel rail or any of the fuel injectors. You could also have a fuel tank vapor line to the intake manifold leaking vapor. Any fuel leak should be thoroughly investigated to isolate the...
Help with my truck's rpm's being too low and won't stay running.
Hi there. It seems that there is a vacuum leak on your engine. Check all of the vacuum lines and the vacuum brake booster for any cracks or breaks on the lines and hoses. Replace any hoses or lines that...
What will happen when a Ford ecm diode goes bad?
The PCM power diode is put into the fuel pump and PCM relay power circuit to prevent power surge feedback into the circuit called flyback voltage then can be higher than normal operating voltage. The computer may get flyback voltage...
Can a leaky water pump cause an engine misfire?
A water pump leak by itself cannot cause a misfire unless you overheated the engine and caused a blown head gasket or the coolant gets on spark plug wire causing misfire.

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Steering Column Actuator
Common signs include difficulty starting the car, being able to take the key out of the ignition anytime, and an overheating ignition switch.
How Long Does a Pitman Arm Shaft Seal Last?
Your Your car’s Pitman arm is a crucial component of the steering system. It connects the gearbox to the steering linkage, and effectively translates the rotational movement of the steering wheel to lateral movement for the tires, which allows you...
How to Lube Your Car's Steering and Suspension Parts
Your steering and suspension components are important for a stable car. By lubricating your tire rod ends and ball joints you will have a smooth ride.